Options to replace missing teeth were once very limited, with partial dentures or bridges being the main treatment to fill in the gaps. A dental implant is a procedure to replace a missing tooth permanently.
Unlike other options, dental implants replace the whole tooth including the root. A titanium screw is inserted into the jawbone were the missing roots once were. Over a period of time after the initial insertion of the screw, the bone will integrate with the titanium and hold it in place. Once the integration takes place an artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the metal where the natural tooth once was.
There are many benefits to dental implants, including:
Prevent bone loss- When you lose teeth you also tend to lose bone mass in your jaw. The bone that was once around the root of your natural tooth begins to shrink away causing the gum in the area to do the same. With a dental implant in place, the bone and gum will remain in place.
Improved appearance- Dental implants are made to look and feel like your natural tooth. They will blend in seamlessly with your existing smile.
Improved comfort- Because the implant integrates and becomes a part of you, you will not notice it at all. Unlike removable dentures which are likely to cause discomfort at some point.
Improved self-esteem- Dental implants can fill in the gaps in your smile and help you to feel confident within yourself again.
Improved oral health- Dental implants do not require any treatment on other natural teeth. Because the nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, your own teeth are left intact, improving long term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between the teeth, making cleaning and flossing easier.
Enables natural speech- Some tooth replacement options can affect your ability to pronounce words correctly. Missing teeth can also alter your speech. Because dental implants feel and function like natural teeth you are able to speak easily as you normally would.
Easier eating- Dentures can often move about in the mouth causing issues and discomfort when chewing. Many denture wearers also need to remove their teeth to clean after eating. Dental implants function as your own natural tooth would, allowing you to eat your favourite foods with confidence.
Durability- Implants are very durable and with the correct care and good oral hygiene, many will last a lifetime.
High success rates- Dental implants have a success rate of between 95 and 98 percent.
With many years of proven success, dental implants offer a long-lasting, safe option. If you are missing one or more teeth, let the experienced team at your Dental Services Pimpama show you how they can fill in your gaps and restore your smile.