Having just one missing tooth can drastically change the health, function, and appearance of a person’s mouth. When a tooth goes missing, the person is more likely to develop gum disease, the remaining teeth may shift to fill in the gap, and the jawbone begins to deteriorate. These symptoms are amplified when more than one tooth is missing.
Dental bridges and dentures are popular tooth replacement options. However, most dentists agree that dental implants are the best choice.
In this blog, our Lombard dentist explains why dental implants are so highly recommended by dentists.
1. Dental implants prevent bone loss.
Tooth roots are embedded in the jawbone and are imperative for maintaining jawbone density. When a tooth falls out and the root is removed from the jawbone, the bone begins to disintegrate. The dissolution of the jawbone causes facial atrophy (or facial sagging).
Dental bridges and dentures don’t address this problem because they only replace the tooth crown, or the visible part of the tooth.
Dental implants replace the tooth root and join with the jawbone through a natural process called osseointegration. The jawbone is strengthened and, as a result, the patient does experience facial atrophy.
2. Implants last a long time.
Dental implants are known to last for over 25 years. Many dentists and scientists attribute this to the fact that the material is biocompatible and non-toxic, so the body doesn’t reject it. Additionally, dental implants fuse to the jawbone to become part of the body which strengthens the device.
The durability of this tooth-replacement option is especially important when deciding what to replace a missing tooth with because patients must consider the cost as well. Though the initial cost of dental implants is more than dentures and bridges, our Lombard dentist recommends them because patients will spend less money on replacements and repairs later.
3. They look and feel natural.
No matter where a dentist places the dental implant in a patient’s mouth, it won’t be visible. However, the crown on top of it will be. A skilled dentist can design a dental crown that fits right in with the rest of the patient’s smile so it appears to be a natural tooth.
Dental implants also feel just like a natural tooth. Because the implant replaces the tooth root, the strength and function of the person’s smile are also restored. Additionally, there are no necessary diet restrictions associated with dental implants.
4. Dental implants promote good oral health.
A missing tooth raises a person’s risk of developing gum disease and dental decay because it creates a breeding ground for disease-causing bacteria. The space can also be more difficult to clean because there is no tooth to brush. Replacing the missing tooth or teeth removes that risk and makes the area easier to clean.
5. The dental implant procedure is highly successful.
According to the Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98 percent. Dentists can easily determine who is a good candidate for dental implants and they can prepare for or eliminate any possible complications during the procedure.
Additionally, patients should choose a dentist with experience in successfully placing dental implants.
Our Lombard Dentist
At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud is passionate about restoring the health and function of her patient’s teeth. Her patient reviews, skill, and experience make her one of the top dentists in the Lombard, IL area.
Call 630-629-5700 to schedule your initial consultation today.
