While there are many modern tooth replacement options, dental implants have been one of the most noticeable advancements in dentistry in the past 40 years. If you are starting to feel self-conscious about your smile due to missing teeth, you may be wondering if dental implants are a suitable solution for you or if they are worth getting. Continue reading to learn five benefits of dental implants: 

1. Dental implants resemble natural teeth.

Contemporary materials and technology allow dental implants to appear just as natural as they feel. Dental implants consist of three parts: 

• Implant post: Secures the other pieces to the jaw and acts as a natural tooth root
• Abutment: Connecting piece 
• Prosthesis: An artificial tooth (crown, bridge, or denture)

Dentists design prosthetics to seamlessly camouflage with the rest of the smile so that the only people who know which teeth are natural and not are just you and your dentist.

2. Dental implants preserve bone and remaining teeth.

When teeth are removed, it creates an imbalance in the jawbone and remaining teeth. The jawbone supports teeth by stimulating bone growth. When one or more teeth are missing, the bone in that area no longer receives stimulation due to a lack of tooth roots. In return, bone atrophy occurs, and the jaw begins to shrink over time. A shrinking jaw not only alters the shape of your face but creates an unstable base for remaining teeth.

The teeth naturally support and stabilize each other, so when one is no longer there, the other adjacent teeth begin to shift into the vacant space, causing a domino effect. In due course, this can lead to misalignment and an uneven bite, leading to cavities, gum disease, TMJ issues, and further tooth loss. Because implant posts mimic a natural tooth root, dental implants cause 

3. Dental implants are stable.

Why are dental implants the most secure type of dental device? We can thank a process called osseointegration. Osseointegration occurs when an implant becomes permanently bonded with surrounding bone tissue and creates a firm foundation for the prosthetic tooth.

Unlike dentures and dental bridges, patients with dental implants do not have to worry about embarrassing slippage while eating, laughing, or speaking. 

4. Dental implants are long-lasting.

With adequate maintenance and care, most dentists intend for dental implants to last for life. Generally speaking, dental implants rarely fail. While the implant post is meant to be permanent, the prosthetic teeth attached may need to be replaced eventually due to daily wear and tear.

5. Dental implants are low-maintenance.

How do you take care of dental implants? The truth is that you take care of them much like your natural teeth. Dental implants capped with a crown do not require extra steps outside of a traditional routine of consistent brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash. If you have a dental implant covered with a dental bridge or denture, they do require extra steps:

• Bridge: Clean under the false tooth to keep gums healthy
• Denture: Same amount of care as a traditional denture

It’s worth noting that if you decide to get dental implants, you should visit their dentist often (at least every six months). With frequent visits, he or she can monitor, clean, and prevent failure of the implant.

Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants in Atlanta, GA

If you have lost one or more teeth, Dr. Abbey J. Lee offers a wide range of tooth replacement options. However, one of the best treatments that modern dentistry offers are dental implants because they are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and improve oral health. Find out if you are a candidate for dental implants by calling 404-328-7177 or submitting an online form today.