Dental implants have become a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They look and feel like your natural teeth, and they help preserve your facial structure, prevent bone loss in the jaw, and restore chewing and speaking functions. However, dental implants can be a more significant investment than other tooth replacement options, and you may want to make sure they are the right choice for you. This article will explore five reasons why dental implants are worth the investment, from improved appearance to long-term health benefits.
Unlike traditional dentures, which slide around in your mouth, dental implants are permanently fixed in your jaw, giving you a more natural and confident smile. They can also help improve your ability to chew and speak, as they don’t slip when you eat or talk. Furthermore, if you have lost all of your teeth, dental implants can restore the full function of your smile and improve your self-esteem.
The dental implant process typically begins with a comprehensive oral and medical evaluation, which includes a review of your medical history. Depending on your overall health and the condition of your gums, you may need to undergo a bone graft, sinus lift, or other treatment before getting dental implants.
Once the initial procedure is complete, you will need to wait for a few months while your jawbone heals. This process is called osseointegration, and it allows the implant to form a solid foundation for your new tooth. During this time, you will need to stick with a soft foods diet to ensure proper healing.
After the implant has healed, a small connector (an abutment) will be attached to the top of the artificial tooth. This provides a permanent foundation for your replacement tooth, and it can be color-matched to match your existing teeth.
Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants are designed to promote healthy bone growth in the jaw, which can keep the surrounding teeth stable and healthy. Bone loss can weaken the surrounding teeth, cause a collapsed facial appearance, and put you at greater risk for gum disease. Dental implants prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone to stay dense, similar to the pressure and stimulation that natural teeth provide.
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that helps to preserve the shape of your jaw and face. This is because they stimulate the bone and prevent it from resorbing, which can change your bite, sag your cheeks, or give you a prematurely aged appearance.
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift toward the gap and create problems with chewing, speech, and your ability to maintain proper oral hygiene. Dental implants fill the empty space and prevent this movement, which can be beneficial for your overall health and appearance.