Did you know that dental implants are less expensive over the course of a lifetime than dentures and bridges? It’s true – since these superior upgrades can last indefinitely with proper care, these are generally the best way to replace missing teeth. In this post, the team at Young Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, your dentist in Joplin, uses their expertise in dental implants to inform you on the many benefits of this restorative procedure.
Why Are Dental Implants The Best Way To Replace Teeth?
As one of the most respected experts in dental implants in Joplin, Dr. Dan Young knows that dental implants are the gold standard for replacing teeth for a reason – they’re superior to dentures, partials, and fixed dental bridges for many reasons:
- Jaw Strength – Did you know that dental implants actually increase bone density in your jaw? Unlike bridges and dentures that cause your jawbone to recede from the pressure that occurs every time you chew, our implants stimulate bone growth and keep your jaw strong.
- Improved Speaking & Chewing – Your teeth not only make your smile look great, they’re a vital part of your speech and your ability to break down food. Since the implants will remain in a fixed, secure position, you’ll be able to eat all your favorite foods, and you’ll never have to worry about shifting dentures or being misunderstood when you talk.
- Keep Natural Teeth Strong – When you lose teeth, the ones that remain move to fill in the extra space, causing alignment problems and putting them at risk for breaks and chips. Your dental implant will keep the rest of your teeth safe by making sure they stay in proper position and don’t fill in the gaps.
- Life-Like Appearance –Dentures, partials, and bridges function well, implants look better because they blend right in with your existing teeth. The perfectly matched porcelain will look great with your natural grin.
- Stay-In-Place Smile – Let’s be honest, removing your smile at night can be embarrassing. With dental implants, you won’t have to worry about being self-conscious of your dentures, even when you kiss your special someone. And, you can brush your implants just like you would your natural teeth, so at-home care is easy.
- Long-Term Savings – Although you may have to spend a little more for dental implants initially, you’ll save money with a dental implant over the course of a lifetime. Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, as opposed to dentures and bridges that last a maximum of 15 years, and will need to be replaced again and again.
What Is The Process For Dental Implants?
Dr. Young describes the process for dental implants below:
- Step 1 – The implant itself is a biocompatible titanium post that will be surgically placed in your jaw. This will become the secure foundation for the rest of your replacement tooth. You’ll need about 3-6 months for the post to fuse with your jaw in a process called osseointegration. At that point, the other pieces can be added.
- Step 2 – Once your jaw is strong enough, Dr. Young will add the abutment (the connecting piece that links the implant to the tooth-shaped cap), and then the dental crown (the part that looks like your natural teeth).
At that point, you’ll be done – you can start showing off your winning smile again!
Now that you know my dental implants are the best choice for your missing teeth, schedule your appointment with Young Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to restore your grin!