First impressions make a lasting impression. You smile when you greet people, when you hear good news and in moments of excitement. When you have a tooth or teeth missing from your smile you go to great lengths to avoid showing your teeth. Your self-esteem and confidence may suffer, causing you to avoid social situations or meeting new people.
What are dental implants?
What are dental implants and how do they work? Dental implants are artificial teeth with titanium roots. The implant replaces a missing tooth or teeth. Unlike a bridge or dentures, implants are anchored to your jaw bone. They are individually designed to match your bite as well as the look and feel of your other teeth.
Your dedicated and experienced cosmetic dentists will evaluate your needs and develop a treatment plan that is tailored specifically to you.
Here are five reasons you should replace your missing teeth with dental implants:
1. Keep your remaining teeth
Missing even one tooth will cause your gums to recede and your jaw bone to shrink. This, in turn, weakens the remaining teeth until they collapse. Dental implants are safe, do not harm the neighboring teeth and aid in supporting the muscles that shape your face.
2. Retain the shape of your face
Your teeth and jaw bones are part of what makes up the shape of your face. When you lose teeth and your jaw bone shrinks, it has a dramatic impact on your appearance. Your cheeks begin to sag, leaving you with a wrinkled hollow. This happens because the cheeks do not have the support from inside the mouth. Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. The shape and color of the implant will be matched to your teeth giving you a naturally beautiful smile.
3. Eat your favorite foods
Dental implants allow you to eat all the foods you once enjoyed without discomfort or hesitation. There are no restrictions as to what foods you can eat. Additionally, the slur that often accompanies missing teeth or dentures disappears. Implants make your mouth fully functional again, so speaking to family and friends is clear and natural.
4. They are long-term
Traditional bridges that help support the teeth last an average of five to seven years before needing to be replaced. Decades of research has shown that a tooth replacement with an implant will last a lifetime if properly cared for. Dental implants are made of biocompatible materials that your body can tolerate.
5. Implants look natural and do not get cavities
The first question asked after you leave the dentist's chair is always "How many cavities did you have?" With implants the answer is none. However, good dental hygiene is still important to properly care for your implants.
Your needs are unique to you, and a consult ensures those needs are met.
Dental implants are an investment in your future, your health and your well-being. Initially, the cost may seem high and other restoration services may seem like the better option. However, after adding up maintenance and replacement costs, dental implants are the most cost effective solution.
Missing teeth do not have to be an embarrassment. Contact your dentist today and schedule your appointment for a new smile.