5 health benefits of dental implants

Dental implants benefit our health and quality of life more than we may realise. They are definitely the best option in both form and function to replace missing teeth. There are health benefits, as well as aesthetic and practical benefits, that other tooth replacement options simply can’t offer.

Dental implant benefit #1 – better nutrition

We need our teeth for biting and chewing food. Because dentures don’t exert the same force as real teeth, eating is compromised. Patients with full or partial dentures often experience discomfort chewing, and may feel self-conscious eating with others. Implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are integral and strong. Moreover, they function like real teeth. Crunchy fruit, raw vegetables, cereals, chewing gum, nuts and seeds can all be chewed without a problem. There’s no wobble, no need to mash food, no more sensitivity. Once the implant surgery site has healed, a healthy diet is back on the menu.

• Answers to patients’ questions about dental implants.

Dental implant benefit #2 – healthy gums

When there’s a space because a tooth is missing there’s a much higher risk of plaque build-up. Consequently, gums can become inflamed and sore. Left untreated, gum disease develops. A dental implant, however, fills the gap left by the missing tooth. It reduces hard to clean surface areas where bacteria can accumulate. Therefore one of the benefits of dental implants is that gums stay healthier, reducing the chance of further tooth loss.

• Answers to patients’ questions about gum disease.

Dental implant benefit #3 – jawbone regeneration

Our bones need stimulation to regenerate. If a tooth is missing, then the jawbone begins to lose density and shrink. Dental implants mimic natural teeth in a way other tooth replacements, such as dentures and bridges, don’t. When an implant is placed, the jawbone grows around the post, holding it just like a real tooth root. This process is called osseointegration. Once the replacement tooth is firm and can exert pressure, it works to prevent further bone loss. Indeed, stimulation of the jawbone by both natural teeth and implanted teeth causes cells to regenerate.

Dental implant benefit #4 – no cavities

Implant patients soon realise how like natural teeth their implants are. One significant difference, however, is that they can’t get cavities. As the implanted post, abutment and crown is constructed from artificial materials, there is no risk of decay. Brushing and flossing are still important though to protect the gums and periodontal structures that support your implant.

Dental implant benefit #5 – facial structure

Over time, because tooth loss reduces our bone density, our facial structure diminishes so our appearance changes too. People who wear dentures for a long time lose the definition of their jawline and face. Tooth loss makes us look older and our face appear sunken. Missing teeth also allow our teeth to drift out of line, which also changes our appearance. Moreover, pain in the jaw and headaches result from misaligned teeth as our bite changes. Dental implants help keep the whole jawbone area in shape.

• Your nearest SpaDental practice can explain more about how dental implants can benefit your oral and general health.

• The first step to improved dental health and comfort is to book a preliminary assessment.

Implants are a practical, modern solution for missing teeth

Implants are realistic replacement teeth. They are an extremely effective and stable way to replace one or more missing teeth. Tiny titanium posts act just like tooth roots and bond with the surrounding bone. Dental implants can replace just one tooth, or a whole set of teeth. Some patients do not have sufficient bone density to support individual implants. The solution then is strategically placed implants which can support a bridge of replacement teeth.

• Restore your confident smile.

Initial consultation and treatment planning

Your dentist will take time to explain your options for suitable treatments to you. X-rays and models of your mouth show whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implant treatment or not. If you are, your dentist will draw up a treatment plan, outlining the procedure, projected costs and time-frame. An initial consultation offers an opportunity for the patient to ask questions about dental implants, and determine realistic expectations.

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