Why is it that an ever growing number of people are turning to this great method of replacing teeth
There are basically four options for those who loses a tooth, or several teeth. There are options for leaving the gap in the present, using dentures or having a bridge installed or having a dental implant placed. We don’t recommend the first choice as leaving a gap between the teeth, regardless of how subtle it might be, is not an ideal idea and could cause problems such as the teeth becoming misaligned over a time.
Both bridges and dentures have been in use for a time and each fulfills the function of replacing teeth that are missing to a certain degree. Both have their own drawbacks however, with dentures occasionally being uncomfortable and even unstable for some patients, whereas a bridge can have healthy teeth that need to be cleaned in order that the bridge can be bonded.
We believe that, in most cases, dental implants offer the best option for our patients. They require a small dental procedures, which are followed by an extended healing period however, this modern procedure may be the most effective long-term treatment for missing teeth.
Let’s take a look then at some of the benefits that are most important to using dental implants to replace missing teeth.
Longevity
While implant placement is an extremely long procedure compared to most dental treatments It also offers an extended solution to the issue. Unlike many teeth restorations which will require replacement after a few years, dental implants are able to last for 20 years or longer once they have been successfully incorporated into their jaw bone. It all depends on how well you look after them but fortunately this is fairly easy to maintain and requires no arduous cleaning like dentures do for example. We’ll discuss the care of implants in the near future.
Stability and strength
Whilst dentures and bridges offer some degree of toughness, they’re not anywhere near the strength of teeth implants. This means that, once fully integrated, you are able to utilize your dental implant just the same way as a natural tooth. This strength is also linked to the strength of your tooth. Whilst dentures can sometimes shift around in mouth a little but the implant replaces the root of the missing tooth and offers a solid anchor to which the crown to be attached.
Comfort
There may be a brief period of transition after the placement implant where things might seem a bit odd after you’ve become comfortable with your new tooth, there is no reason why you need to consider it on a daily basis, aside from cleaning it with care. A majority people who received this procedure a few years ago have told us that they now see it as just one more tooth’.
Appearance
The implant itself is generally composed of titanium and is hidden under the gum line. The only thing you will see is the crown attached to it. We use only the highest quality dental crowns which are strong as well as stain-resistant and natural looking.
Ability to take food
One of the biggest disadvantages of having dentures is that, after trying a little, many people abandon eating certain foods because they’re hard to chew on with dentures. It’s not the situation with dental implants. In fact, there’s absolutely no reason not to eat your favourite food, no matter how difficult it may be to chew it. Implants that are healthy can handle this with the same ease as a natural healthy tooth.
Jawbone retention
The major difference between bridges/dentures and dental implants is the fact that implant placement is the only option that can replace not just the crown portion of the tooth, but the root as well. Implanting an artificial tooth root implies that the bone in that area is not reabsorbed by the body in the same way as is the case with bridges and dentures. This reduces the chance of teeth moving, and also changes in the facial shape.
Easy cleaning
Both dentures and bridges are rather difficult to clean and make doing such a tedious task. Implants however require none of this and can be cleaned as you would normal teeth.
Even though the crown and implant are made of synthetic materials, it is important that you take care to keep your teeth clean and your implant regularly. While the implant itself isn’t likely to be damaged, the gums and surrounding bone may still suffer by suffering from periodontal issues. This could result in an enlargement of the bond between implant and bone, and could result in the implant breaking down. Diligent brushing, flossing and visiting a dental hygienist each six months ought to be enough to maintain the health of your tooth implant.
If you’d like to know more about implants or have any queries about the procedure, we’re able to help. An initial consultation with our implant dentist could be scheduled for patients who are considering this procedure. To make an appointment, call us today.