Dental Implant Basics You Need To Know

Posted on: 9 November 2022

When you've lost a tooth, you need to decide whether you want a dental bridge or an implant to replace it. Your dentist will tell you if you're an ideal candidate for implants and, if you are, you'll have to consider whether or not it's the right solution for your needs. Here's a look at some of the reasons why people consider dental implants.

They Look Natural

If you are replacing a tooth that's in a visible area, dental implants are usually preferable because of their natural appearance. You won't have to worry about the tooth shifting because of a loose dental bridge, and the tooth can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with your remaining natural teeth. That means nobody ever has to know that you have a dental implant.

They Are A Long-Term Investment

You may be familiar with dental bridges and dentures that need to be replaced every five to ten years. If so, you may assume that a dental implant is handled the same way. The truth is that a dental implant integrates completely into your jawbone, so you don't need to worry about replacement. Your dental implant post will last a lifetime in most situations. Sometimes, the crown needs to be replaced, but only if it suffers damage.

They Don't Restrict Your Diet

If you have known people with dentures or bridges, you know that these dental appliances can limit what you are able to eat comfortably. Sometimes, things that are crunchy or hard to chew may be uncomfortable or difficult to eat with those appliances. If you choose dental implants instead, you'll find that they behave much more like a natural tooth because of the way that they anchor to your jawbone. This saves you from adhering to a lot of dietary restrictions.

They Require Some Recovery Time

You may have seen the ads for same-day dentures and quick dental bridge replacement. Dental implants are not a same-day procedure. The good thing about that is the fact that your jaw will have time to heal between stages of the procedure. That time is ideal for your own comfort throughout the process.

These are some of the key things that you need to know about dental implants as you decide how to deal with that tooth that you've lost. Ask your dentist about implants to see if that might be the right treatment solution for you.

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