Suffering tooth loss can be a painful experience, but if you don’t take action immediately, you may not find as many restorative treatments later. Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that are placed inside the jawbone (or above it) through surgery. The jawbone heals over the weeks and secures the dental implants in place, which then work as an anchor or base for the replacement tooth. If your Fullerton family dentist has recommended dental implants, you need to consider the option for which these seven benefits can be helpful.
Dental implants feel natural
Dentures were long considered the only viable and affordable option for replacing lost or missing teeth, but with implants, we clearly have a winner. Dental implants cost more, but what you get is a permanent set of new, replacement teeth that feel almost the same as your natural teeth.
Dental implants prevent bone loss
Once a tooth is removed, our body naturally tends to get rid of the bone structure that supports the tooth root. This may cause a rapid loss of bone mass, and as a result, the adjacent teeth may tilt to fill up the place. If you lose more than a few molars, this could cause your face structure to sink. Dental implants can prevent all that because you are essentially replacing the missing tooth roots.
Dental implants are better than dentures
If you consider the comfort while using dentures, implants certainly fare better. You don’t have to worry about replacement teeth moving around in the mouth. Dental implants also feel better and allow you to eat and talk more comfortably.
Dental implants can last a lifetime
Dental implants are made of titanium, which is surgically placed in the jawbone. Titanium is a safe and extremely strong metal, which adds to the structure of your jawbone. You can consider all sorts of replacement tooth options, including crowns and permanent or removable replacement teeth, but without the concerns associated with dentures. Dental implants have a high success rate and can last for decades.
Final word
Dental implants are better than most other restoration options. The only downside is the time needed to get replacement teeth because it can take up to eight to twelve weeks for your jawbone to heal. Also, not everyone is a good candidate for implants. If you are a heavy smoker or have a history of lifestyle diseases, let your dentist know, and they can guide you further.