Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth. If you and your surgeon decide this option is right for you, your surgeon would insert a titanium post into your jawbone to act as a tooth root and then your dentist will attach a replacement tooth to the post. Dental implants are not the only option for when you’re missing teeth, so let’s talk about the benefits of choosing this solution.
Benefit #1. They Look and Function Naturally
No one will be able to tell that your dental implants aren’t real teeth. You might even forget after a while! They’ll blend in with the look of your natural teeth to improve your smile if you currently have gaps. Plus, implants feel and work like your natural teeth. Once they’re inserted, you won’t notice they’re there. You can eat and talk naturally with these replacement teeth, and you'll be able to care for them as you would a natural tooth. Unlike dentures, you don't need to remove them to clean them. You simply brush and floss them like you would with the rest of your teeth.
Benefit #2. They Keep the Adjacent Teeth Intact
A dental bridge, which is another option for missing teeth, causes damage to the surrounding teeth. This is because the dentist needs to anchor the bridge to the adjacent teeth, which requires shaving them down to apply crowns. Unlike this invasive process, dental implants do not have any effect on the adjacent teeth, as implants are able to stand on their own with support from the post. With this option, you gain the benefit of filling in missing spaces while keeping your natural teeth intact.
Benefit #3. They Preserve the Jawbone
The problem of a missing tooth progresses to impact the jawbone beneath the gum. In time, the jawbone deteriorates, which can have a negative effect on your oral health and potentially the structure of your face. Fortunately, adding a dental implant preserves the jawbone to help you have optimal health and appearance. This option replaces the tooth root that would normally connect to the jawbone by inserting the titanium posts. Then, the jawbone grows and connects to the post, creating a strong support and preventing further deterioration. This is the only solution for missing teeth that provides this benefit to the jawbone.
Benefit #4. They’re Permanent
Unlike other options, which can be removable and/or require replacement after about five to 10 years, dental implants can provide a permanent solution. Just like with natural teeth, you need to care for your implants and have regular dental checkups to ensure they last and function properly for as long as possible. When cared for properly, they can last for decades or even a lifetime.
Get a Dental Implant Consultation
Dental implants offer many benefits when you're missing teeth, both when you look at them on their own and when you compare them to other dental options. Nonetheless, your oral surgeon can help you figure out whether this is the best solution for your situation.
Make an Appointment
We have 4 offices conveniently located in Oklahoma City, Norman, Midwest City and Edmond. To request an appointment for a dental implant consultation, contact us through our website or call the office location that’s the most convenient for you.