Losing your natural teeth can cause many inconveniences and oral health issues, on top of being unpleasant on its own. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers several options for tooth replacement, and getting dental implants is one of them. Even though it is true that dental implants might be significantly more pricey than other solutions, many people still opt for this option due to its many advantages. In this article we will talk about four reasons to invest in dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a tooth restoration solution that replaces both the roots of the tooth and its crown. Getting dental implants is a surgical procedure performed by a dental implants specialist. As the first step of the procedure, a metal (typically titanium) post is placed into the jawbone. Sometimes this post is also referred to as a screw. This post will replicate the root of the tooth. With time, the bone fuses with the post in a process called osseointegration. Once the osseointegration is complete, the post will provide secure support for the crown.
Later, an abutment is fitted on top of the post, and a dental crown is attached to it. Dental crowns are usually made of durable and natural-looking materials, such as porcelain.
Four Reasons to Invest in Dental Implants
Dental implants are a revolutionary method of tooth replacement that is reliable and effective. Implants have many advantages compared to other tooth replacement solutions, and in most cases, they are worth the cost. Here are some of the pros of dental implants.
Dental Implants Look Great
Dental crowns that are placed on top of dental implants or implant-supported bridges and dentures are typically made of ceramics or porcelain. Porcelain is one of the most commonly used materials for dental implants because it is similar to natural teeth in appearance and durability. The color of porcelain used for dental implants can be matched in color and tint to your natural teeth, so the implant will not be noticeable in your mouth. The same is true for full-mouth dental implants—they will look just like natural teeth or even better in some cases.
Another popular material for dental implants is zirconia. It is a very durable material that also looks very similar to your natural teeth enamel. Zirconia is also believed to be slightly more resistant to cracking and chipping compared to porcelain. However, if a patient follows the implant care recommendations, the difference is not very noticeable.
Dental Implants Last for a Long Time
Dental implants are a tooth replacement solution that will last you for up to 20 years with proper care and lifestyle habits. In some cases, implants can even last for up to 30 years. This makes them the most cost-effective method of dental restoration. In comparison, dental bridges last for 5 to 7 years, and dentures typically have to be replaced every 5 years.
Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss and Sunken Appearance
One of the biggest issues with losing natural teeth is that it inevitably leads to jaw bone loss. This happens because the tissue that is used to be connected to the tooth is no longer stimulated by the root of the tooth. As a result, your body believes that the bone that used to support your tooth is no longer useful, and stops sending calcium to it. This leads to breaking down of the bone tissue. In dentistry this process is called bone resorption.
In the first year after the tooth loss, a patient loses 25% of the jaw bone density. With time, the bone continues to shrink even further. This leads to significant changes in facial structure and gives the patient a “sunken” appearance, making them look older.
Because dental implants replace not only the crown, but also the root of the tooth, they will keep stimulating the bone and prevent bone resorption along with changes in facial structure. Dental implants also prevent the surrounding natural teeth from shifting and causing oral health issues.
Dental Implants Are Extremely Comfortable
Notably, dental implants function just like your natural teeth due to their strength and durability. It is especially valuable for patients who are switching to dental implants after wearing dentures. Traditional dentures give patients only 25% of the natural chewing power, while dental implants give patients up to 95% of natural chewing power.
Make an Appointment Today
If you lost one or several of your teeth, dental implants might be the best replacement option for you. Call our office today and make an appointment with the top Hollywood dentist. We are looking forward to welcoming you at GLO Modern Dental.