20 Dec Are dental implants really an investment?
Dental implants are the most natural-looking and -feeling option for replacing your missing teeth. They also help prevent your jawbone from atrophy by providing an artificial tooth root. If you have even one missing tooth, talk to your implant dentist about having it replaced with an implant.
How Dental Implants Work
Unlike dentures, which only replace the visible portion of your missing teeth, dental implants also provide an artificial tooth root. This root, made of titanium or a titanium alloy, is set directly in the jawbone, usually in the socket where the tooth originally rested. The prosthetic crown is then attached to the root. Once the full implant is placed, you will be able to eat, talk, and chew without worrying about your teeth becoming loose or shifting in your mouth. In fact, because your tooth implant is set permanently in your jaw, it will feel just like your natural tooth.
If you have missing teeth, consult with an implant dentist about your suitability for dental implants. He will evaluate your health history, the condition of your mouth, and other factors to determine if you are a good candidate. Some factors that can affect healing of an implant procedure include:
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Gum disease
- An autoimmune disorder
- Lack of jawbone density
If any of these factors affect you, talk to your implant dentist about your available options. Gum disease can be treated before your implant procedure, and bone grafts can be used to shore up the jawbone before placing implants.
How Dental Implants Protect Your Jawbone
One of the most important ways dental implants preserve your health and appearance is by stimulating growth in your jawbone. Your natural tooth roots are designed to do this, stimulating the jaw whenever you chew. Without a root in the socket, however, the bone tissue will be resorbed. This can lead to a “shrunken” look to your face as the top and bottom jaws move closer to each other. It can also change the shape of the jawbone, causing dentures to fit improperly.
For this reason, a tooth implant is the best way to replace your tooth permanently and give you a natural look to your smile. If you have missing teeth, be sure to talk to our dentist about implants and call us today!
