Patients with one or more missing teeth are susceptible to a wide range of oral and overall health issues. While most people believe that missing teeth is simply an aesthetic issue, it can contribute to problems like dental decay, gum disease, and even heart disease. fortunately, there are various options when it comes to replacing one or more missing teeth. These include dental bridges and dentures, but the most effective and beneficial option is dental implants.
In this blog, our Austin Laser Dentist discusses the major benefits of choosing dental implants over other tooth-replacement options.
1. Jawbone support
One of the greatest benefits of dental implants is that it restores and preserves the jawbone. Most people with missing teeth don’t realize that the tooth root is responsible for maintaining jawbone structure.
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone begins to slowly deteriorate which leads to atrophy and facial sagging, but when it’s replaced, the jawbone is stimulated and integrates with the implant. This three-to-eight- month process is called osseointegration.
Additionally, the process of placing dental implants doesn’t require the removal of adjacent teeth like with dental bridges. Therefore, the risk of oral health complications is reduced.
2. Natural appearance
Dental implants are made up of three parts: the implant, abutment, and crown. These three parts emulate a natural tooth because the small, screw-like implant acts as the tooth root and the crown as the natural tooth. The abutment simply holds the two parts together.
Additionally, the crown, or prosthetic, is created to look just like the rest of the patient’s teeth. The implant itself helps maintain facial and bone features that often deteriorate over time.
3. Restored function
People with missing teeth often struggle with chewing, eating, and speaking properly. The strength that natural teeth offer enables patients to maintain jawbone strength so that these functions are completely reinstated.
4. Comfort
Compared to traditional dentures, dental implants are far more comfortable. Denture-wearers often complain about movement that irritates and inflames the gums. Movement and slippage most often occur while eating and talking. To remedy this problem, patients need to have their dentures remade or relined or use creams and adhesives to make their current denture more comfortable.
Dental implants can be used to secure dentures, dental bridges, and single-tooth restorations. The secure implant prevents movement so patients can live a more comfortable life.
5. High success rate
The dental implant procedure has a nearly 100% success rate. This is contributed to its predictability. Dentists are able to determine who is a suitable candidate for dental implants before performing the procedure. Qualifications for dental implant surgery include:
- Healthy teeth
- Healthy gums
- Good overall health
- Being tobacco-free
Once a patient has been approved, the dentist moves forward with the procedure. However, the success rate isn’t simply based on the immediate outcomes, but the long-term ones.
As long as the patient cares for their dental implant properly—just as they would their natural teeth—the dental implant will likely last forever.
Schedule an Initial Consultation
Another key to dental implant success is choosing an experienced and expert dentist. Dr. Helen Ragsdale is just that! She and our team are prepared to give you the most comfortable and enjoyable dental experience possible.
Call our Austin, TX office today at (512) 346-4690 to schedule an initial consultation.
