The Advantages of Having Dental Implants

Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option for simulating the look, feel and function of natural teeth. They prevent bone loss, protect surrounding teeth and can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene.

Unlike dentures, dental implants stay securely in place while chewing and speaking. They also prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth, which could lead to gum disease and tooth decay.

Improved Oral Health

A dental implant fills in the space left by a missing tooth. This prevents nearby teeth from shifting or tilting into the gap, which could cause bite problems and difficulties maintaining proper oral hygiene. Implants also avoid placing excess strain on remaining natural teeth, which can lead to additional dental problems in the future.

Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on top of your gums and can cause bacteria to form in crevices, implants are securely anchored into place. This allows you to brush and floss your implants just as you would your natural teeth, helping you keep your oral health in good shape.

When a tooth is lost, the jawbone tissue begins to deteriorate, a process known as bone resorption. Implants act as artificial tooth roots and stimulate bone growth to prevent this deterioration. In addition, implants support the facial structure and prevent the sunken appearance often seen with tooth loss.

Durability

The titanium post of a dental implant mimics the strong attachment of a natural tooth root and fuses with the jaw bone through a process called osseointegration. The top part of the dental implant, which is called an abutment, supports custom-crafted tooth restorations for natural-looking, easy to clean replacement teeth.

Dental implants last a lifetime when properly cared for. This means following aftercare advice, such as brushing and flossing regularly and attending routine dental appointments. Regular checkups allow your dentist to spot any early warning signs, such as gum disease or clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism), that can impact the lifespan of your dental implants.

Choose a dental implant brand that is backed by research and offers guarantees on their products. This is a good indication that they are using high quality, safe materials and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their implant restorations are successful in the long term. Some brands, such as Straumann, even offer a lifetime guarantee on their dental implants after the completion of the full crown replacement.

Aesthetics

Implants fuse securely to your jawbone, so they won’t shift or slip out of place. They also look indistinguishable from your natural teeth. A highly skilled implant dentist will craft your restorations to match the color, shape and size of your surrounding teeth for a truly indistinguishable result.

Dental implants fill in gaps caused by missing teeth, preventing the deterioration of the jawbone that occurs when tooth roots are no longer stimulated. Implants also prevent the sunken appearance that can occur in the face when tooth loss isn’t addressed promptly.

While a surgical procedure, dental implants involve minimal complications and heal faster than traditional dentures. They also provide enduring perfected aesthetics that elevate oral function, health and confidence, especially in a South Florida culture fixated on beauty and image. That kind of confidence and quality of life is invaluable to your overall well-being.

Confidence

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to smile with confidence. They also help you eat all of your favorite foods and speak clearly without fear of ill-fitting traditional dentures.

With the proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, eliminating the need for future restorations. However, they require regular checkups and oral hygiene to remain healthy. Patients should brush their implants at least twice a day and floss regularly to remove bacteria that can cause infection.

If you are missing one or more teeth, contact our practice to learn if dental implants are right for you. During your consultation, we will review your medical history and oral health to determine if you are an appropriate candidate for the procedure. We will also discuss your preferred treatment plan, including the type of implant and its placement location. If your jawbone is too soft or thin to support an implant, a bone graft may be required.