What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a therapeutic intervention to correct tooth loss. The most typical cause of tooth loss includes tartar buildup, tooth decay, poor oral hygiene, gum disease and plaque.

A dental implant is different from other tooth replacement techniques because the practice aims to replace tooth enamel and its root. A dental implant consists of an artificial tooth and a solid foundation to support the structure and function of the artificial tooth resting on the jawbone.

A domino effect will emerge when you don’t replace a lost tooth. For example, the bites might shift as you chew and cause dental occlusion problems. Tooth loss affects your physical and mental health as much as your mouth. Plus, there’s the epithelial changes that can cause cancer.

When Is a Dental Implant Necessary?

The following are the common reasons that necessitate dental implants:

Tooth Loss

If you lack one tooth, that doesn’t mean that dental bridges or dentures are the ultimate treatment options.

Dental implants are necessary and the best for tooth loss treatment because they give a more satisfying and pleasing appearance to your teeth. Implants are more comfortable than dentures and dental bridges.

Finally, in the case of tooth loss, dental implants work quickly to give an improved smile since less dental work is not required, unlike in the case of dental bridges and dentures.

Ill-fitting Dentures

Of course, you can use dentures to fix some mild to moderate dental problems, but if the denture doesn’t fit properly within your mouth, then a dental implant is the best relief. You can replace dentures with dental implants to make your teeth easier to clean and maintain.

To clean your teeth, you need to remove the dentures. However, you only have to maintain the dental implants like your natural teeth.

Reasons for Dental Implants

The following are the most common reasons someone would go for dental implants:

• Avoid embarrassment when talking, eating and smiling
• Improve lower and upper dentures stability
• Improve the quality of the smile
• Offer support for partial dentures
• Restore self-esteem and confidence
• To replace a missing tooth

Dental Implants vs. Dentures and Dental Bridges

Dental implants are more effective than dental bridges and dentures in treating a missing tooth when the root system cannot be traced. Dental implants work by preserving the structure of the surrounding teeth structure, as well as their functionality and consistency.

When dental bridges are used, the teeth on either side should be healthy and strong since they will be used as anchors to help fill the space left by the missing teeth.

Ultimately, since dental implants are permanent treatment options without removable parts, you don’t have to worry about losing or damaging the already repaired tooth or teeth.