01 Mar 5 Key Benefits of Dental Implants
Many years prior, dentures were seen as the only treatment option to replace failing or missing teeth. Today, dental implants are deemed the treatment of choice. Since dentures rest on the gums, they are prone to slipping and pinching. Dental implants on the other hand work by replacing the tooth roots.
While not everyone is truly aware of the ins and outs of dental implants (i.e., how much dental implants cost, how they work, what they require, etc.), most are aware they offer benefits the traditional options just can’t match. It is reassuring to know there is no shortage of benefits dental implants can offer. Below are five of the most notable ones:
- Dental implants can restore your bite force
Since dental implants are anchored into the jaw through a titanium post that serves as the tooth root, they allow you to bite with the same amount of force, like you are using your natural teeth. Other tooth replacement will not restore as much of the bite force since it merely sits on top of the gums and is not strongly anchored in place.
- Dental implants are made to mimic your natural teeth
Dental implants come in a vast array of shapes and sizes. Your dentist will design the implants to match the color of the natural teeth so it won’t stand out. Amazingly, dental implants look so good that no one will notice you have dental implants until you tell them!
- Dental implants enables natural speech
Some tooth replacement options like dentures may affect your ability to pronounce words correctly. Missing teeth can also alter your speech. Since dental implants feel, look, and function just like the natural teeth, they won’t also affect your ability to speak easily and naturally.
- Dental implants are easy to care for
Dental implants are very easy to look after. In fact, they won’t even require special products. No needs for cleansing tablets, special tablets, or adhesives. They just need to be taken care of like you would your natural teeth. However, you need to ensure you look after them accordingly so they will last for a really long time.
- Dental implants prevents changes in the shape of your face
This might not be common knowledge but your teeth help support your facial structure. When you lose a tooth, you can also lose some support. At times, this can cause the shape of your face, making you appear older.
Dental implants can also provide the same support your natural teeth can provide. Other tooth replacement options won’t be able to provide the same support.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Generally, if you are healthy enough to undergo a routine oral surgery or dental extraction, you might be a good candidate for dental implants. Understandably, there are other key factors that need to be considered before you can go ahead with the procedure.
For instance, you need to have healthy gums and sufficient bone to hold the implant in place before you are considered a good candidate. However, that’s not all. You also need to commit to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits when you get dental implants.
If you are suffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders like heart disease or diabetes, or if you just had radiation therapy to your neck or head area, dental implants might not be the best option for you. If you are a heavy smoker, you need to inform your dentist about it as it might hinder fast healing.
To play safe, it would be best to visit your dentist if you are considering dental implants. They can definitely give you guidance if it is indeed the best option for you.
