Restoring your smile after tooth loss is an incredibly personal matter, so it’s natural to want to do your research before choosing a treatment. Many experts consider dental implants to be the ideal method because of their exclusive advantages, but that doesn’t necessarily make them the best option for your individual circumstances.
Continue reading to learn three surprising facts about dental implants you might not already have known to help you make an informed decision!
Fact #1: They Can’t Get Cavities
If you’re concerned that you’ll invest in a new tooth just for it to develop decay, you can set your concerns aside! These prosthetics consist of three main parts: the titanium screw that’s placed in your jawbone, the metal abutment that connects to your restoration, and finally, the dental crown itself. The tooth-shaped cap of your implant is usually made from resilient ceramic or resin because both materials can be color-matched to your natural enamel but can’t develop cavities.
However, your remaining teeth can, so you must continue to brush twice daily to prevent plaque and bacteria from building up. Otherwise, you could develop gum disease or other issues that could lead to implant failure.
Fact #2: They’re Almost As Strong As Your Teeth
Unlike dentures and dental bridges, implants are surgically embedded directly into your jaw. Once the bone fuses with the metal rod, it essentially becomes a permanent part of your mouth that functions as a sturdy stand-alone structure.
Because of their unique placement, these prosthetics alone can restore up to 80% or more of your original chewing power. Meanwhile, dentures and bridges typically only return about 30% of it. That means of all the available replacement teeth, dental implants function the most like the pearly whites you were born with.
Fact #3: Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss
Did you know that you can lose around 25% of your jawbone density surrounding a lost tooth within the first year that it goes missing? Then, it continues to weaken gradually until it eventually becomes too frail to continue supporting your teeth. Furthermore, as it thins, the muscles and ligaments in your mouth and face grow slack, resulting in sunken cheeks and additional wrinkles.
Dental implants are the only restoration that can prevent this process and preserve your facial structure. The titanium pole stimulates new bone growth every time you bite down, just like the roots of your natural teeth. This keeps it active and healthy over time.
If you’re looking for a replacement tooth that’s as resilient as it is realistic, you could benefit fromo dental implants!
About the Author
Dr. Khushboo Gandhi has 18+ years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. She initially completed her dental degree in India, then graduated from the Oklahoma College of Dentistry after moving to the U.S. Now, she continues her education with ongoing courses at Baylor College of Dentistry and Spear Education to stay on top of the latest techniques and technology. She provides a full array of services to meet all your needs under one roof, and can complete the entire dental implants process in the office for your convenience. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 532-6506.