If you’re missing a tooth, you have many replacement options to choose from, including dentures, bridges, and dental implants. While dentures and bridges have been around for years, dental implants are emerging as the tooth replacement option of choice. Among men and women in the United States who get dental implants, 94% are happy with the way they look, and more than 80% report an increased comfort in chewing.
The dental specialists at Skyview Dentistry are experts at giving patients dental implants. In this blog, they explain why dental implants are a great choice to replace missing teeth.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants consist of three parts: the post, the abutment, and the crown. The post, which acts as the tooth root, is implanted directly into your jawbone. On top of the post is placed the abutment. The abutment connects your crown — false tooth — to the implanted post.
The posts are made of titanium. The metal’s unique biocompatibility allows the post to bond with your bone in a process called osseointegration. Your custom-made crown is the visible part of your implant. Dental crowns are made to fit into your mouth precisely and match your remaining teeth for a natural appearance.
Why are dental implants so popular?
Dental implants, which are a permanent, natural-looking tooth replacement option, are popular for many reasons.
Permanent solution
Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants can last a lifetime. When your dentist implants the titanium post into your jaw, the post bonds with your bone to create a permanent root for the rest of your prosthetic tooth.
Natural look
Dental implants look and act just like natural teeth. Once your implantation process is complete, no one will know you have an implant. Crowns are usually made from medical-grade ceramic or zirconia, which look and shine like natural teeth.
Enhanced jawbone health
In addition to providing a foundation for your replacement tooth, the post also stimulates healthy jaw growth. Your jaw, like all bones in your body, continuously grows new cells. The roots of your teeth, whether natural or titanium, provide the stimulation your jawbone needs to continue producing new cells.
Natural function
Dental implants don’t interfere with your ability to speak or eat. While it may take a little while to get used to your implants — especially if you’ve spent a long time with missing teeth — most patients adapt to their implants quickly.
Easy to care for
Dental implants are extremely easy to care for. You simply brush and floss them like your natural teeth. There’s no need to mess around with special cleaners and adhesives like you need to do with dentures. And just like your natural teeth, you’ll need to have routine dental checkups so your dentist can monitor your implant, natural teeth, and gums.
Whether you’re missing all of your teeth or a single tooth, book an appointment online or over the phone with Skyview Dentistry to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants.