Dental implants have rapidly become the gold standard as a treatment option for replacing missing teeth. Your specialty dentist routinely places implants to prevent problems like bone loss and teeth shifting that would otherwise develop when you leave that gap in your smile untreated. By scheduling a dental implant appointment, you can receive an implant that has both the function and appearance of a natural tooth.
If you have one or more missing teeth, you should definitely discuss with your dentist how dental implants can benefit you. Although other treatment options are available, nothing beats dental implants for a variety of reasons. If you can afford it, implants are almost always your best choice for replacing missing teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The benefits of dental implants include:
- Success rate
- Shifting teeth
- Problems in adjacent teeth
- Preventing bone loss
Unlike other treatment options like dental bridges that typically last around 10 years, your new dental implants can be expected to last for a lifetime. The length of time that your dental implants will last depends upon factors like your overall health, the quantity and quality of available bone, and how many teeth need to be replaced.
Bridges and partials tend to fail over time. This is due to the weakened tooth structure that supports the dental bridges. Structural considerations related to dental bridges make neighboring teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay and fracture. This can lead to an additional unexpected expense that makes the entire proposition more costly than you may realize in the beginning.
Although it is always possible to simply leave a gap in your smile, it is not advisable. One reason is that the teeth surrounding this gap can eventually begin shifting into the empty space, leading to undesirable cosmetic changes or problems with your bite. The costs associated with these problems make dental implants a much more cost-effective solution.
Implants Fix Problems with Adjacent Teeth and Bone Loss
You may also want to discuss implants with your dentist if you wish to avoid problems with teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. If you were to receive a dental bridge, these teeth must have some enamel removed to complete the process. Eventually, the cement attaching the bridge will deteriorate, allowing bacteria to accumulate under it. This accumulation of bacteria may lead to tooth decay. This eventually causes the failure of the dental bridge and could possibly lead to a root canal procedure after tooth decay reaches the dental pulp.
Another important consideration is that after teeth are cut down for the placement of a dental bridge, that tooth structure is not replaceable. As a result, the long-term health of your teeth is negatively affected, possibly resulting in additional costly and extensive treatment.
Another reason why you should talk to your dentist about implants is that they prevent bone loss. Without the presence of a tooth root, underlying bone begins melting away. Known as resorption, this process can even affect your facial appearance, causing the structure of the face to begin caving in. In some cases, this leads to a dramatic escalation of facial aging.
When we place your new dental implant, your jawbone will gradually fuse around it to provide firm support. If you have gone without a missing tooth for a long time and experienced bone loss, a specialty dentist can still place a dental implant after you undergo a bone graft procedure.
Lovett Dental Gulfgate Can Help with Dental Implants
Dental implants are an effective option for replacing missing teeth. Compared to the alternative treatments available, dental implants last longer and are more cost-effective. If you are considering dental implants, consult with a dental professional for advice. Call Lovett Dental Gulfgate at 713-847-8822 for more information or to schedule your dental implant appointment.