Technological advances in the field of cosmetic dentistry have allowed dentists to provide patients with natural-looking dental restorations that are comfortable and durable. Dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants are more natural looking than ever. Dental implants in particular or one of the best ways to restore your smile if you are missing one or more teeth.
There are a few benefits to having dental implants placed in lieu of other traditional restoration options to replace missing teeth. Cosmetically, dental implants are incredibly natural-looking and comfortable for the patient.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants can be used to replace one or more teeth on one or both arches. Implants can even be used to support an entire denture on one or both arches. Dental implants are made up of three parts: the implant, and abutment, and the implant restoration (the fake tooth).
The actual implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone. There is a portion of the implant that is left protruding through the gum tissue onto which the abutment and restoration are affixed. The abutment is kind of like the bridge between the implant and restoration and helps hold the restoration in place. The implant restoration can be an individual crown, multiple crowns fabricated together, a bridge, or a full denture.
Implants utilize the skills of a specialist in conjunction with your dentist. The specialist, typically a periodontist or oral surgeon, will place the actual implant and your dentist will provide the restoration.
Benefits of Natural Looking Dental Implants
Overall, dental implants are typically more aesthetically pleasing than other restorative options. Modern dental technology and development of materials allow patients to have more natural looking restorations than ever before. In addition to the cosmetic benefits, dental implants are overall the superior option to replace one of my missing teeth.
One reason is that implants support bone health! The roots of our teeth help stimulate the regeneration of bone structure. When we chew, it's like a little work out for our teeth and surrounding structures. When a tooth is lost, that space no longer receives the stimulation it once had but with a dental implant can change all that. When the jawbone is not stimulated enough to naturally regenerate, it naturally begins to break down and the loss in one area can lead to mobility and surrounding teeth and additional tooth loss.
Dental implants are much more stable than other options, especially during eating and speaking. Implants are also easier to care for and have a better lifespan than traditional restorations. A dental implant can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth and with proper care and maintenance, can easily last a lifetime whereas a bridge or denture may need to be replaced every 10 years or so.
Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants so it is important to have an evaluation and discuss your options with your dentist. If your dentist thinks that an implant is a good option for you, they will refer you to a specialist that they work with for further evaluation.