Dental implants are the best choice out there when it comes to replacing missing teeth. You'd be hard pressed to find a dentist or oral surgeon that doesn't sing their praises––and it's not just dentists who are fans of implants. Patients love that their implants are easy to care for, never need replacement, and cost them less time and money in the long-term. There are many benefits of dental implants, but these four are the most significant.
1. Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss
If we had to choose one reason over all others to recommend dental implants, it's this one. Dental implants don't just replace the part of your missing tooth that's visible above the gum line. They also replace the root. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed directly into the jawbone. This serves two important functions: it prevents bone loss and encourages bone regeneration when bone loss has already occurred.
Bone loss in the jaw is a serious problem for patients with missing teeth. When the bone degrades, it means your bite weakens. A weak bite limits the types of food you can eat, which can impact your health and cause embarrassment. Jawbone loss leads to facial collapse, a condition that causes patients to appear aged beyond their years, with sunken facial features. Once bone loss occurs, it can only be remedied with bone grafting procedures. This is why prevention is important.
2. Dental Implants Are the Most Natural Choice
Because dental implants are placed in the jaw, they function the most like your natural teeth. You never have to worry about dentures slipping or bridges breaking. Dentures can limit the foods you eat and alter your speech. To care for them, you'll have to remove them every night and put them in cleaning solution. To put your dentures back on, you'll have to use messy adhesives that may need to be reapplied throughout the day. In contrast, dental implants are brushed and flossed just like natural teeth.
When you wear dentures they're always on your mind, but implants are so comfortable you'll probably forget that you even have them.
3. Dental Implants Are Made to Last a Lifetime
Many patients express concern about the cost of dental implants. It's true that the upfront investment––in both time and money––can be a lot. But in the long-run, you'll come out ahead. With a bridge, you'll need a replacement every 5-15 years. Dentures need adjustments and replacements due to warping and gums changing shape from bone loss. When cared for properly with brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, implants never need to be replaced.
4. Dental Implants Don't Damage Other Teeth
Bridges are supported by adjacent teeth. Usually this means one or more healthy teeth are reduced in size in order to affix crowns. This compromises the healthy teeth in question, putting them at higher risk of fractures and other damage.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Dr. Cooper would be happy to meet with you to discuss more of the benefits of dental implants and whether they're the best option for your needs. Contact us at 301-515-2466 to schedule an appointment.