Did you know that an estimated 3 million Americans have dental implants? These replacement teeth continue to gain popularity as a reliable solution because they have an incredibly high success rate of 95% coupled with several amazing benefits. In fact, many experts consider them the ideal method if you have suffered from tooth loss and are eager to rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality.
Replacing your teeth is an incredibly personal matter, and it’s natural to want to be well-informed before deciding on a treatment to refurbish your grin. With that in mind, continue reading to learn why many dentists consider implants the gold standard of dental restorations!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of a titanium rod placed in the space left by your missing tooth. It takes a few weeks or months for your mouth to recover, but then your dentist will provide a fully customized dental crown or other appropriate restoration to attach to the support pole. These are usually built out of durable porcelain that can be specifically created to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth so no one can tell the difference.
These artificial teeth are unique because of all the types, they’re the only ones surgically embedded into your jawbone. As a result, they provide many advantages over alternative methods like dentures or dental bridges.
What Makes Dental Implants So Strong?
Because of their unique placement, these restorations tend to be more resilient and long-lasting than dentures or dental bridges. Many patients are surprised to learn that their jawbone fuses with the titanium rod through a process called osseointegration. As new bone growth is generated, it eventually wholly surrounds and merges with the metal. Then, it acts like a root to hold your restoration in place and keep your jawbone active and healthy.
While other methods rely on your gum tissue or healthy teeth in your mouth as anchors, dental implants function as sturdy standalone structures. If cared for properly, they can potentially remain firmly planted for the rest of your natural life. Thankfully, maintenance is as simple as brushing and flossing twice daily to remove bacteria and plaque buildup that can contribute to cavities or gum disease, which can cause implant failure if left unaddressed.
It’s also a good idea to visit your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. This allows them to monitor your dental condition and address any areas of concern, like a loose prosthetic, before it progresses into a significant issue requiring more complex and costly treatments. Flossing at home is essential to preventing gum disease, but there’s no replacement for a professional cleaning.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance but high-value dental replacement, schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine if implants are right for you!
About the Author
Dr. Rachel Clark loves helping people improve their quality of life by enhancing their oral health. She earned her dental degree from Creighton University and is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. She provides a full array of services to patients of all ages conveniently under one roof, so you and your entire family receive the same top-quality care. Then, she utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to deliver personalized treatments tailored to your unique needs. If you’re interested in implants, you can request a consultation on the website or call (316) 847-7730.