Living with any number of missing teeth can be challenging. As such, upon losing a tooth, you shouldn’t waste any time asking your dentist what method they suggest for replacing it. Their answer might vary depending on your situation, but oftentimes, they’ll tell you that dental implants are the best choice available.
What makes dental implants different from traditional bridges and dentures? And are they truly the pinnacle of tooth replacement options? Here’s what you need to know when looking for a way to rebuild an incomplete smile.
What Makes Dental Implants Different?
One of the key features that make dental implants unique is the way they essentially become part of your body. They are the only form of tooth replacement that is surgically inserted into the jaw, and they are able to naturally fuse with the bone. This makes them quite sturdy and allows them to function similarly to your natural tooth roots.
Joining with your jawbone gives dental implants many advantages. Here are just some of the reasons why dentists often recommend them:
- More Stability: Many denture-wearers know the embarrassment of having their prosthesis slip while they’re speaking or laughing. Meanwhile, successful dental implants will stay firmly in their proper spots in the jaw.
- Natural Feel and Appearance: Dental implant restorations look so lifelike that many people would never guess they aren’t real teeth. Furthermore, the implant posts will feel like a natural part of your smile once your mouth is done healing.
- No Bone Loss: The jawbone normally deteriorates after tooth loss, but dental implants can stop this process. They are currently the only form of tooth replacement that can do so due to the way they function as new tooth roots.
- Long-Lasting: Traditional dentures and bridges usually last between 5 and 15 years. In comparison, dental implants are much longer-lived on average. If you take care of your implant posts, you may be able to keep them for decades – perhaps even a lifetime.
Are Dental Implants Truly the Top Way to Replace Teeth?
It’s hard to say whether tooth replacement options have truly peaked with dental implants. After all, dentistry is a field that changes all the time; it’s possible that an even more beneficial treatment could be devised in the future.
That said, there’s no denying that dental implants could change your life for the better if you’re currently struggling with missing teeth. Speak to your dentist today to learn more about the process of having dental implants placed and see if you might be a good candidate.
About the Author
Dr. Zach Kingsberg went to Nova Southeastern University for his dental studies. At his Denver practice, Riviera Family Dentistry, he works with patients of all ages. He is able to offer in-house dental implant placement in order to replace any teeth that have been lost or extracted. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Kingsberg, visit his website or call (720) 640-0272.