We understand that dentistry can be confusing. Unless you know someone with a dental implant (or have a chatty dentist in the family), you likely don’t know much about them. So let’s go over what you need to know about dental implants.
Dental implants are a common dental treatment that offers patients a reliable solution for missing teeth. The treatment is known for strengthening jaw bone health, improving aesthetics, promoting oral health, and restoring confidence in one’s smile.
If you’re still wondering what dental implants are, why they are important, and what you need to know about the procedure, stay tuned—there are some key features of this dental treatment that could change your life.
Dental Implants: a Long-Term Solution
One important factor to know about dental implants before receiving treatment is that they are a long-term solution. Dental implants recreate the structure and function of natural teeth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for prosthetic teeth such as crowns or bridges. When cared for properly, dental implants can last up to 25 years or more, making them a long-term solution for tooth loss.
How They Work
Dental implants, often confused for a tooth prosthetic such as a crown, only replace the root of a tooth, not the tooth itself. A full missing tooth treatment includes the placement of a dental implant (the root) as well as the restoration of a dental prosthetic (the tooth).
A dental implant consists of two parts: the rod and the abutment. The titanium rod will first be placed into the jawbone and given time to fuse with the surrounding bone, similar to a natural tooth root. Once the assimilation is complete, a small connector piece called an abutment will be fixed to the implant, providing a strong foundation for the replacement tooth.
Dental implants, unlike other treatments, are extremely durable and do not require replacement. If you suffer from missing teeth, dental implants may be the solution for you!
The Importance of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer longer-lasting and more impactful benefits than temporary solutions like traditional dentures. Not only do they provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth but also offer amazing cosmetic and oral health benefits. Some of these lesser-known benefits of dental implants are:
- Increased jawbone density
- Restored tooth functionality
- Prevention of tooth shifting
- Enhanced facial structure
As the titanium rod assimilates with your jawbone, it increases bone density and sharpens your jawline. Additionally, this faux tooth root can prevent your remaining teeth from shifting into the missing tooth gap while providing a solid foundation for full tooth restoration.
Dental Health and Dental Implants
Dental implants are great promoters of dental and oral health. Without these implants, missing teeth can cause serious dental issues beyond affecting one’s appearance. Some of the main consequences of a missing tooth are:
- Difficulty chewing
- Difficulty speaking
- Jawbone deterioration
- Dental infection or decay
- Intensive dental intervention
When you receive dental implants you are protecting your smile from further damage caused by infections, decay, or bacteria. Food debris can easily lodge in your missing tooth site, making it a prime spot for bacteria growth. Dental implants don’t only help with speaking and eating; they also protect your oral health, improving your quality of life for years to come.
Get Dental Implants Today!
Now that you’re in the know about dental implants, you can decide whether or not they’re right for you.
If you have a missing tooth, dental implants can help. They offer a permanent and reliable solution that not only improves the aesthetics of your facial structure but also promotes long-term oral health. No need to risk your oral health or alignment when dental implants are available to you.
Schedule a consultation with McCullough Dental today to find out more about dental implants, see if they are right for you, and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.