Why Choose Dental Implants?

The dental implant is today's state-of-the-art tooth replacement method. It consists of a very small titanium post (the actual implant), which is attached to a lifelike dental crown. The crown is the only part of this tooth-replacement system that is visible in your mouth. The implant itself rests beneath your gum line in the bony socket that used to hold your missing tooth. Two, four or more implants can be used to support multiple crowns, or even an entire arch of upper or lower replacement teeth. Whether you are missing one tooth, several teeth or all your teeth, dental implants are preferred by doctors and patients alike. That's because dental implants are:

1. Most like natural teeth

Your natural teeth are anchored securely to your jawbone by their roots. Similarly, implant teeth establish a firm connection with your jawbone. This is achievable because dental implants are crafted from titanium, a metal uniquely capable of bonding with living bone. After a minor procedure in the dental office inserts an implant, it will fuse securely to your bone over several months. Once this fusion is complete, your implant-supported replacement tooth (or teeth) will feel entirely natural. It will also be visually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Implant teeth enable you to eat, speak, and smile with full confidence, as they will not slip or shift like removable dentures often do.

2. The longest-lasting tooth replacements

Dental implants integrate with your jawbone, offering a permanent solution to tooth loss. In contrast, other tooth replacement options, like removable dentures and bridgework, might require replacement or adjustments over time. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them the most cost-effective long-term option for tooth replacement.

3. Able to prevent bone loss

You might not be aware, but losing a tooth inevitably leads to bone loss. Bone is living tissue that requires ongoing stimulation to regenerate and remain healthy. For the jawbone, this stimulation is provided by the teeth. When a tooth is lost, the bone beneath it starts to resorb or diminish. This can result in a prematurely aged look and can make the jaw more susceptible to fractures if not addressed in time. Dental implants stop this process by integrating with the jawbone and providing stability. No other tooth replacement method offers this benefit.

4. Safe for adjacent natural teeth

Dental implants do not impact the health of nearby natural teeth, whereas other tooth-replacement methods can compromise adjacent teeth. For instance, with bridgework, the natural teeth flanking the gap left by a missing tooth must support the dental bridge. This can place stress on those adjacent teeth, making them more prone to decay. Similarly, a partial denture depends on nearby natural teeth for support and may cause them to loosen over time. Dental implants are independent tooth replacements that do not depend on adjacent natural teeth for support.

5. Easy to care for

Caring for implant teeth is similar to caring for your natural teeth. You need to brush and floss them daily. However, unlike dentures, you won't need to use special creams or adhesives, nor will you need to soak them overnight. Implants also won't require fillings or root canals, unlike the natural teeth that support bridgework. Although implants cannot decay, they can be affected by gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams is the best way to prevent gum disease and ensure your dental implants last a lifetime, as intended.