The Advantages of Dental Implants
Do you have a missing tooth? It may have fallen out of its own accord or it may have been extracted. Perhaps you have a tooth that is wobbly or failing you. No matter why or how you lost the tooth, once you have, you really only have a handful of options.
You can leave the space and risk the teeth side tipping. Or you can have your dentist prepare a bridge and finally, you can replace the missing tooth with a dental implant.
What is a dental implant?
A cosmetic dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically inserted into the jaw bone. This is done under sterile conditions to prevent infection and ultimately, implant failure. The implant is allowed to heal and integrate over many months. Once the implant has integrated with the bone a crown can be placed on top to complete the look.
What are the advantages?
- Preserve the bone
When we lose a tooth we immediately start to lose bone too. The only purpose of bone is to hold a tooth in place so once the tooth is lost, the bone starts to breakdown.
By placing a dental implant you are preserving the bone in the immediate area.
- Restore function
Without a dental implant you would have a gap. This can be unsightly or inconvenient. Where a tooth is missing at the rear of the mouth (a molar) it can affect your ability to chew and bite together correctly. By placing a dental implant you are restoring your mouth to its optimum capacity and giving yourself greater chewing efficiency. - Eliminates need for partial or full denture
By placing an implant you are eliminating the need for a partial denture. Dentures can be ill-fitting and cause damage to neighbouring teeth.
- Prevent movement
As the bone begins to break down around the missing tooth and the teeth adjacent realise there is nothing supporting them they will begin to tip over to fill the gap. If you want to avoid movement in your teeth it is best to restore a missing tooth with a dental implant. Though your dentist can’t guarantee no movement, a dental implant will greatly reduce the chance of teeth moving dramatically, as they will have no room to do so.
- Improve aesthetics and hygiene
We have met someone who has a gap as a result of a missing tooth. One of the greatest advantages of dental implants is improved aesthetics. Replacing a tooth can immediately enhance a smile.
There are often less issues surrounding oral hygiene when a dental implant has been placed successfully as it encourages good oral hygiene habits.
- Longevity
Compared to some dental treatments, implants are all but guaranteed for life. Of course, your dentist will discuss reasons implant fail with you but for the most part, and when patients attend regularly for preventive maintenance you can expect your implant to last your lifetime. The crown itself may need to be replaced over time.
Considering a dental implant?
Phone Dental 359 on 1300 625 625 now to arrange a consultation.
