People are more and more interested in dental implants, as it’s become clear that they are an answer to the detrimental impact that missing teeth have on our dental and physical health. Those who have lost their teeth or have had extractions no longer have to live with obsolete bridges and unpleasant traditional dentures.
Whether you’re missing teeth are the consequence of gum disease, decay, aging, or an accident, implants can help improve your oral health and keep you smiling for years to come!
What Happens Physically to Your Body if You don’t Replace Missing Teeth
When you are missing teeth, additional wear to your remaining teeth can occur. The worn-down teeth then become vulnerable to decay. Not only that, but a weakened bone structure provides little to no support for the remaining teeth and can lead to tooth failure in the surrounding area.
With implants, you can chew safely and evenly on all sides of your mouth, resulting in consistent wear. At Renew Dental, our implants integrate so naturally that the jawbone is unaware the natural tooth is missing.
Your body cannot distinguish between your natural tooth structure and a dental implant. When an implant is inserted into the bone, it stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which results in bone reabsorption. This, in return, successfully prevents bone resorption (loss) and atrophy.
How Implants Help with Facial Posture
For individuals who have lost teeth, facial posture is a major concern.
A single tooth can radically alter the appearance of a person’s face. When the jaw bone is resorbed, the lip line straightens, the chin begins to protrude, joules form pouches, and the lips thin and flatten. This gives the patient the appearance of being ten or more years older.
Implants act as the tooth’s missing structure. This, in return, means that the bone will be reabsorbed. With this structural stimulation, jaw muscle atrophy is prevented, and that hollow and sunken facial expression doesn’t happen.
How Missing Teeth Affect Physical Health
Having missing teeth can make mealtime a drag, instead of a tasty way to take a break. To make things simpler, people often choose foods that don’t require as much chewing. However, there might be more nutritious options than easy-to-eat meals, and a lack of key nutrients will impact physical health, and can lead to health problems.
People with missing teeth are also at risk for poor overall oral hygiene. It can be difficult to brush properly and floss around gaps in the teeth, and bacteria can build up in these areas and lead to gum disease.
Other than that, missing teeth also affect the way we speak. This is because the tongue has nothing to grip when producing sounds. This can have massive effects on one’s self-confidence.
Dental Implant Design
The design of dental implants has undergone considerable change in recent years, and today’s implants are stronger and more durable than ever before.
There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most common type of implant, and they are placed directly into the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants, on the other hand, are placed under the gum tissue but on top of the jawbone.
Once the implant has been placed, a dental prosthetic (a false tooth) is attached. The prosthetic can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin.
The type of prosthetic you choose will depend on several factors, including the color of your natural teeth, the size and shape of your jaw, and your personal preferences.
The latest implant designs make it easier for patients to receive the treatment they need and achieve long-term success. As a result, dental implants have become an increasingly popular option for patients who are missing one or more teeth.
Dental Implants are the Future
Dental implants are the dental prosthesis of the present and future. They improve quality of life by allowing you to chew and taste foods, kiss, converse, and smile without worrying about painful and unpredictable dentures.
If you are considering dental implants, it is important to work with an experienced dentist who can help you choose the best type of implant for your needs. Plus, your dentist should be able to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your situation.
Understand, dental implants are an investment. Dental implants may appear more expensive than regular dentures and bridges at first. However, you should also consider the expense of maintenance for those treatments.
If you are interested in learning more about our dental implant procedures or our cosmetic dentistry options, call us today (204) 817-6768.