There are many reasons that an adult may lose a tooth such as gum disease, fracture, or decay and when this does happen, the best option for replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth is with dental implants. Before dental implants became widely used, patients who lost teeth had very few options that each had their own disadvantages. Dental implants have been in use for over 60 years and they provide a stable, natural looking replacement for broken or decayed teeth.
What is a Dental Implant
Dental implants consist of an artificial titanium root that is put into the jawbone and a custom made tooth that is supported by the titanium root. They are an excellent option for patients who are in good oral health but have lost one or more teeth because of gum disease, injury, or decay. Dental implants are also safer for the surrounding teeth because unlike crowns and bridges, they do not cut into other teeth or rely on surrounding teeth for support.
How to Have a Successful Implant
In order for dental implants to be successful, they must be fit properly to the jaw and well maintained to promote good overall dental health. The implant is connected directly to the bone and gum tissues which make it important to keep your gum tissue healthy, and bone grafts can also be incorporated quite successfully to help the bone fill in around the implant. Certain health issues such as periodontal disease, diabetes, and bleeding problems could compromise the effectiveness of the dental implant which makes it important to tell your dentist about any health issues you may have before the implant is placed.
Advantages of Dental Implants
- Natural Look: The artificial tooth for the dental implants is made to match your teeth for a very natural look. No one will be able to tell a dental implant from your natural teeth.
- Stability: Dental implants are a stable way to replace an individual tooth or support a removable denture for multiple teeth. They will not fall out or rock while eating and they are unlikely to have many complications.
- Maintains Bone Structure: Dental implants help maintain jawbone levels so your face can retain its natural structure.
- Durability: The success rate of dental implants is over 98% and can last a patient’s entire life with the right maintenance.
- Cost: While a single dental implant is generally more expensive than a cemented bridge which can cover multiple teeth, bridges only last between 10 and 20 years if they are properly cared for. Dental implants can last a lifetime with the proper care and they do not harm the surrounding teeth, making them a more cost effective solution in the long run.
Patients who are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth should consider dental implants as an option to restore their smile. Dental implants are a safe, natural looking way to improve the look of your teeth and they are very durable with the proper care. Dr. David Wilhite provides dental implants to his patients as one of his cosmetic dentistry services. Contact Dr. Wilhite to schedule a free consultation regarding dental implants.
