Of all the tooth replacement options available today, the dental implant is the most similar to a natural tooth. Other dental prosthetic devices do improve the chewing ability of the patient. However, there are other aspects of the tooth that are never addressed. Here are a few benefits that are only offered by dental implants:
Only dental implants stimulate the bone.
Dental implants don't simply rest superficially on the gums. Instead, they are actually surgically inserted into the bone of the jaw. The implant, which is a special titanium screw, fuses with the bone over time. This fusion process, which is called osseointegration, causes the implant to become stable in the jaw and allows pressure on the implant to be transferred to the jawbone. For instance, when you chew your food, the bite pressure that is experienced by the implant is also felt by the bone. This pressure stimulates the jawbone to continue to produce bone cells and to maintain a suitable density.
Without stimulation, the bone can atrophy and eventually cause tooth loss, as teeth can loosen in their socket.
Dental implants can connect to other prosthetics.
A dental implant can serve as a stabilizing support for other tooth replacement applications. This stabilization is possible because like natural teeth, dental implants are rooted in the jawbone.
People who choose overdentures need a base, such as a natural tooth or a dental implant, to serve as a stable foundation to which the appliance can be affixed. Likewise, dental bridges that contain one or more false teeth with a dental crown on each side need a tooth or implant on which each dental crown can rest.
Dental implants may never need replacement.
Some tooth replacement options only last about a decade. A dental implant can last a lifetime.
Dental bridges have a lifespan of about five to 15 years. The average denture will last about five to seven years. Replacement of these prosthetic devices requires extra time at the dental office and extra money.
Dental implants that fuse properly with the jawbone offer longevity. However, it is still important to protect your implant by maintaining good gum health. In addition, you can minimize your risk of implant failure by avoiding smoking and heavy drinking. If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar stable is also important.
Dental implants offer multiple benefits. For more information, contact Tijeras Dental Service or a similar location.
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