Reasons To Get Dental Implants

Why an ever increasing number of people are turning to this wonderful method for replacing teeth

There are four options for those who loses a tooth, or a set of teeth. There are options for leaving the gap as it is, getting dentures, having a bridge fitted or placing a dental implant. We don’t recommend the first option as leaving a gap in teeth, no matter how unnoticeable it is, is not an optimal choice and could cause issues such as the teeth becoming misaligned over a time.

Both dentures and bridges are in use for a long while and both fulfill the need to replace a missing tooth to some extent. There are some drawbacks to both however, with dentures occasionally becoming uncomfortable and prone to instability for some wearers, whilst a bridge can have healthy teeth that need to be cleaned so that the bridge can be fixed.

We believe that in the majority of instances dental implants are the best option for our patients. They will require some minor dental procedures, which are followed by a longer healing time however, this advanced treatment is perhaps the most effective long-term option for replacing missing teeth.

Let’s take a look then at some of the benefits that are most important to having dental implants to replace missing teeth.

Longevity

Although implant placement is quite a long process in comparison to other dental procedures, it also provides a long lasting solution to the issue. Contrary to many dental restorations that will require replacement after a couple of years, dental implants will last for 20 years or longer once they have been successfully incorporated to the bone of your jaw. This will depend largely on how you take care to look after them but fortunately this is a simple process and doesn’t require any flimsy cleaning, unlike dentures for example. We will look more at the maintenance of implants in a bit later.

Strength and stability

Whilst dentures and bridges offer an element of strength, they’re nowhere close to the strength of dental implants. This means that, once implanted, you can make use of your dental implant like a natural tooth. This strength is in addition to the durability in the dental. Whilst dentures can sometimes move around in the mouth but the implant replaces the root of the lost tooth and offers a secure anchor for the crown to be fixed.
Comfort

Although there may be a short transitional period after the placement of the implant where things might feel a little strange after you’ve become familiar with your new tooth, there is no reason why you ever have to contemplate it on a day to day basis, other than cleaning it thoroughly. Most people who undergone this procedure several years ago have told us they see it as just another tooth’.

Appearance

The implant itself is comprised of titanium, and is hidden under your gumline. What you do see though is the crown that is that is attached to it. We use only high quality dental crowns that are sturdy and stain-resistant. They also look natural looking.

Ability to be able to eat

One of the most significant disadvantages of dentures is that, after trying a little they tend to give up on eating certain foods since they’re difficult to chew using their dentures. This isn’t the situation with dental implants. In fact, there is no reason why you shouldn’t try your favourite food no matter how hard it may be to chew. Implants that are healthy will handle the same way as a natural healthy tooth.

Jawbone retention

A major difference between both bridges/dentures and implants is that the implant is the only option that can replace not just the crown portion of the tooth, but the root too. Placing an artificial tooth root implies it is certain that the bone in the area is not reabsorbed by the body in the same way as is the case with dentures and bridges. This reduces the chance of teeth moving, and also changes in the shape of the face.

Cleanliness is simple

Dentures and bridges are quite fiddly to clean and create it a difficult task. Implants on the other hand require none of this and can be cleaned in the same way as an ordinary tooth.

Although the implant and crown are constructed from synthetic materials, it is important to take the time to clean both your teeth and your implant regularly. While the implant itself isn’t likely to get worse, the gums or surrounding bone can still degrade due to periodontal issues. This could result in an enlargement of the bond between bone and implant and could lead to the implant failing. Brushing regularly, flossing frequently and seeing a hygienist every 6 months is sufficient to maintain the health of your tooth implant.

If you’d like find out more about implant surgery or have any queries about the procedure, we’re here to help. An initial consultation with our implant dentist may be scheduled for those who are thinking about this popular procedure. To make an appointment, call our clinic today.