Missing teeth can affect people in different ways. Some people lose teeth due to dental issues. Others may lose theirs due to mouth trauma. There are numerous options for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants are one option that has gained popularity over the years. The following are a few benefits that make this option appealing in comparison to others.
Adjacent Teeth and Bone Protection
Some dental procedures that replace missing teeth may negatively impact adjacent teeth and bone tissue over time. Dental bridges replace missing teeth, and they are stabilized by affixing them to intact teeth. Sometimes the dental bridges place stress on the adjacent teeth after years of wear. People who wear dentures to replace missing teeth may end up losing bone tissue over time. Dental implants are implanted in bone tissue and do not pose these same risks. If there is insufficient bone tissue present, a bone graft is sometimes used to regenerate bone tissue to ensure the stability of the implant(s).
Protection Against Shifting
Some people choose not to replace their missing teeth. Others wait extended periods of time before doing so. The gap left behind by the missing teeth can cause intact teeth to shift into crooked positions. This is often the result of the force from chewing food. Crooked teeth can cause a number of issues. This is why it is imperative to get some type of tooth replacement even if dental implants are not ideal for you. If you desire to straighten teeth after they have shifted, you will likely need orthodontic care.
Semi-Permanent
Dental implants can last many years if proper oral hygiene is practiced. Dentures have to be replaced every few years. Dental bridges can get damaged and have to be replaced too. Dental implants are considered semi-permanent because some people experience dental implant failure, but it is not a common occurrence (2%). Most people can consider their dental implants as a lifetime investment.
Continued Advancements
Initially, dental implants were single prosthetic teeth that were inserted individually. People who had insufficient bone tissue were not candidates. Today, there are procedures such as the All-On-4 Dental Implants, which can replace multiple teeth on the same arch. The option for regenerating bone tissue is another advancement.
A cosmetic dentist is a good resource to use to determine more reasons dental implants are ideal for replacing missing teeth. They can also determine if you are a good candidate for this dental procedure. Visit websites like http://www.2smileabout.com to learn more.