If you suffer from tooth loss, a skilled dentist may recommend dental implants, which are universally considered to be the best tooth-replacement option offered in dentistry today. A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically inserted directly into the jawbone. The titanium screw acts as a tooth root, which serves as the foundation for a restorative crown, bridge, or denture.
Dr. Matthew Bridges and an implant specialist work together to provide patients with comprehensive and contemporary restorative services at his Duncan, OK, dentist office.
Not all tooth-replacement options are created equally, and each patient’s needs will require a solution that is tailored specifically to them. However, here are seven reasons why dental implants are considered to be a better long-term solution compared to other options (like traditional bridges and traditional dentures):
1. Permanence
Dentists intend for dental implants to last for decades. In fact, implants can last a lifetime with proper dental home care, routine cleanings, and regular checkups.
A dental bridge may only last ten years before it needs to be replaced. Dentures typically need to be relined every few years and replaced every five to ten years.
2. High Success Rate
One of the main reasons dental implants last so long is because they are biocompatible, meaning they will not produce a toxic or adverse response in the body. This contributes to the 98% success rate of dental implants.
Other factors that contribute to the long-term success of dental implants include:
- Age
- Bone quality and density
- Proper aftercare
- Proper daily care
3. Convenience
Dental implants naturally fuse to the jawbone through a process called osseointegration and do not require additional daily maintenance aside from brushing and flossing. Once completely healed, patients won’t even remember the implants are there. Implants also eliminate the need for denture adhesives or specialized cleaning solutions.
4. Comfort
Many patients complain that their dentures move while talking or eating. The instability of dentures can limit the foods that a patient feels comfortable eating and can affect their speech patterns. Implants are immobile, which means that chewing, speaking, and smiling can be done with comfort and confidence.
5. Better Oral Health
Tooth loss always results in deterioration of the jawbone. Prolonged jawbone deterioration can negatively affect the surrounding healthy teeth or even distort facial features. Dental implants reinforce the jawbone and prevent bone recession.
Unlike dentures or bridgework, implants do not rely on the gum tissue or abutting teeth for support. Therefore, implants minimize the risk of damaging surrounding teeth, creating excessive plaque build-up, and causing irritation. Additionally, the hollow created by missing teeth can become susceptible to bacterial growth. An overgrowth of bacteria can lead to gum disease, thereby increasing the risk of stroke, diabetes, and heart attacks. A dental implant can help mitigate these risks.
6. Aesthetics
During osseointegration, the jawbone rebuilds itself and restores the patient’s facial features. This also stops tooth movement and further tooth loss. Additionally, the restoration that a dentist affixes to the implant looks and acts like a normal tooth, making it almost indistinguishable from surrounding teeth.
7. Improved Self Esteem
According to Science Daily, tooth loss can lead to depression and anxiety. Dental implants offer a peace of mind that other fixtures may not provide. Dentures can be embarrassing to remove or easily lost. Traditional bridges and dentures can look noticeably different compared to surrounding teeth. Implants eliminate those factors, allowing you to smile with pride.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Don’t let missing teeth impact your day-to-day life. If you’re ready to determine if dental implants are right for you, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with our Duncan, OK dentist. Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 or contact us online to schedule your dental implant consultation.
