Why are dental implants recommended for missing tooth problems?
Dental implants are typically recommended to people who lost their tooth or teeth naturally or due to diseases. Tooth loss changes the appearance of the smile and also deteriorates the jaw bone that anchors them. Dental implants eliminate the necessity of using dentures and other alternatives for missing teeth. Through a surgical procedure called Osseointegration, titanium roots are fixed into the jaw bone to replace the functionality of lost teeth roots. Once the implants are in place, it is covered with gum tissue and left to fuse with the bone naturally during the healing period. In some procedures, a small tooth shaped connector called abutment is screwed into the implant which acts as a joint between the crown and implant.
Dental implant procedure is suggested to the patients only after examining the bone in the area of missing teeth. The surgery is typically done by a specialist called prosthodontist or a dentist who has additional training in implant dentistry. The surgical procedure is carried out under local anesthesia and is done as a single or multi step process. The number of implants needed depends on the number of missing teeth. After it is completely healed, dental crowns or a bridge may be recommended to fill the empty spaces between teeth. They are securely placed on top of implants to provide the normal functionality of teeth. When compared to other replacement procedures, implants are better alternatives for missing teeth problems.
Prevents collapse of facial features and premature aging
Losing teeth can affect much more than just worsening the smile. Since the jawbone tissue relies on the stimulation from the teeth, loss of tooth for prolonged period can alter the jawbone structure and deteriorate gradually. This will affect the overall shape of the face and people look much older than their actual age. Replacing missing teeth with implants will prevent bone loss in the jaw and restores the natural appearance of the face.
Resistant to decay and gum problems
Though other metals are now being used, typically dental implants are made of titanium or titanium alloys which are naturally strong and biocompatible. They are damage tolerant, immune to corrosion and integrate well with bone and other tissues. They are resistant to decay and less likely cause dental health problems once implanted.
Durable and provide long term protection
Unlike other restoration procedures like dentures and bridges, which require a change whenever they collapse, dental implants are durable and long lasting. They are ideal for long term tooth replacement. However, misuse of implants, improper dental hygiene or a gum disease can cause failure of implants. If properly maintained, implants can last a lifetime.
Implants are natural
Implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth than ordinary dentures and bridgework. Once the procedure is done, the smile looks completely natural and no one would know about it unless it is told. Like dentures, they do not slip or become loose inside the mouth. The person may feel little pain or discomfort immediately after the procedure, but once it is healed there will be no inconvenience for eating and speaking. They get fused into the jaw and work like regular teeth. They restore the normal functionality of biting and chewing and enable patients to have a regular diet.
No strain on adjacent teeth
Implants are self-supporting and do not impose any strain on adjacent teeth. To fix a bridge, sometimes nearby healthy teeth have to be removed to support the replacements. But implants do not have any impact on existing teeth. Even when the procedure is done for a single tooth, it will not affect the adjacent teeth.