Missing teeth can be a source of embarrassment and insecurity, but there is a solution. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, providing greater stability and strength than dentures or bridges. Let’s take a look at the many benefits of dental implants and why they’re worth the investment.
6 Benefits That Make Dental Implants Worth the Investment
- Improved Aesthetics. Dental implants look and feel like real teeth, and they help to improve your facial structure by filling in areas where your bone has deteriorated due to missing teeth. The result is a more youthful appearance and better self-confidence.
- Better Oral Health. Tooth implants are permanent fixtures in your mouth. Because they fit snugly against the gums, they make it easier for you to clean around them, which helps prevent gum disease and other oral health issues from developing.
- Improved Comfort. Implants are designed to fit securely in the jawbone. You don’t have to worry about your replacement teeth shifting or coming loose, making them much more comfortable and reliable than other options.
- Improved Oral Function. Because implants are much more secure than dentures or dental bridges, they can help restore your natural biting and chewing function, allowing you to enjoy all the foods you love without discomfort or embarrassment.
- Long-Term Durability. With proper care, implants can last for decades—in some cases up to a lifetime! Their durability makes them an excellent long-term investment for those who want strong, healthy teeth without worrying about frequent replacements or repairs.
- Less Maintenance. Dental implants also don’t require any special maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing; a few visits to the dentist per year should suffice. Without an implant, the gap left by a missing tooth can cause the remaining teeth to shift and misalign. Food or bacteria can then easily stick between the teeth, leading to further tooth decay.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a common and effective way to replace missing teeth. The implant is typically made of titanium, a metal alloy that can easily bond with bone tissue. The implant acts as a tooth root and creates a stable foundation for the dental crown. Once the implant fuses with the jawbone, it becomes a strong and stable foundation for a crown that replaces the missing tooth.
Without an implant, the gap left by a missing tooth can cause the remaining teeth to shift and misalign. Food or bacteria can then easily stick between the teeth, leading to further tooth decay. Adjacent teeth also benefit from implants, as they keep them in place and prevent shifting and overcrowding.
There are three types of implants, and the type you receive will depend on your individual needs:
- Endosteal implants are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone.
- Subperiosteal implants fit onto the top of the jawbone.
- Zygomatic implants are used for people with a shallow jawbone and are placed directly into the cheekbone.
No matter which type of implant you get, they all share the same goal: to provide a strong and secure foundation that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth.
The Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect
Dental implant surgery typically requires two separate stages. Stage 1 is the surgical placement of the implant posts into the jawbone. Stage 2 is when the abutment and dental crown are placed onto the implant posts.
During the first stage, your dentist or oral surgeon will surgically open your gum and place the titanium post into your jawbone. This process usually only takes about 1 to 2 hours per single implant, and you’ll be given a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Once the implant has fused with the bone—a process that typically takes 3 to 6 months—you’ll return for the second stage of the procedure. During this stage, your dentist will place a post called an abutment onto the implant and then attach the artificial tooth or teeth to the abutment.
Dental Implants Highlands Ranch CO
Dental implants offer numerous benefits over tooth replacement options such as bridges and dentures. From improved aesthetics and better oral health to their long-term durability and low maintenance needs, investing in dental implants is worth it if you’re looking for a more permanent solution that looks natural.
Our experienced team at Highlands Ranch Periodontics is dedicated to providing you with personalized, high-quality care that helps you achieve your goals. Contact us today to learn more about our implant dentistry services and schedule your consultation.If you are searching for dental implants Denver CO or dental implants near me, call us at (303) 683-1144 or complete the online booking form. Your beautiful smile is just a phone call away!
Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on individual situations and needs, it’s possible to get a temporary tooth while waiting for a permanent implant. Your dentist may suggest a dental bridge or a partial denture until the implant is ready.
Even though success rates are high, there are potential risks associated with dental surgery. These may include implant failure, infection, nerve damage, and sinus problems. It’s important to discuss these risks with your dentist before committing to any dental procedure.
Dental implant procedures are typically not considered painful, as the area is numbed with anesthetic, and any discomfort can be alleviated with post-procedure pain medication.
Dental implants are not recommended for those with excess bone loss in their jaw, a compromised immune system due to medical conditions or medications, or who are at risk of developing periodontal disease. Patient’s with excess bone loss may require a bone graft before being eligible for implants.
No, patients with sufficient jawbone density and good oral health may not need to undergo a bone graft procedure. However, a patient may require a bone graft if they have low jawbone density due to tooth loss. Bone grafts restore a supportive jawbone needed for the placement of dental implants.