Tooth loss in adulthood can have a dramatic impact on your quality of life. Fortunately, individuals seeking a tooth replacement solution have excellent options from which to choose. Among the most popular are dental bridges, dentures (full or partial), and the longest-lasting, most natural-looking solution: dental implants.
Today, we’re discussing what dental implants are and a handful of the life-changing benefits they offer.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that serve as replacements for natural tooth roots. They’re surgically placed into the jawbone where a tooth was lost. Over time, the bone fuses with the titanium in a natural process called osseointegration. This creates an incredibly strong anchoring point for a custom replacement tooth. What distinguishes implants from other options is that, rather than simply replacing the crown above the gumline, they replace the structural root beneath it.
Six Big Benefits of Dental Implants
That dental implants offer a comprehensive solution for tooth loss is something of a given. However, if you’re wondering what exactly makes them the gold standard of tooth replacement, here are our top half-dozen reasons:
- Improved Appearance – Dental implants blend seamlessly with your existing teeth to restore a natural, aesthetically pleasing, and confidence-inspiring smile.
- Clearer and More Comfortable Speech – Unlike traditional dentures, implants are permanently fixed in place. They’re thus not at risk of slipping, clicking, or causing speech difficulties and discomfort while speaking.
- Increased Chewing Efficiency – Dental implants feel, bite, and function just like natural teeth. As a result, they fully restore chewing functionality, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without restriction. Proper chewing also aids in better digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Exceptional Longevity – Dental implants are highly durable and completely resistant to decay. While the visible crown may face standard wear, the implant post itself can be expected to last for decades, or even a lifetime, with proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings.
- Preserved Jawbone and Facial Structure – Following tooth loss, the surrounding jawbone naturally begins to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants mimic natural roots to stimulate the bone, preventing bone loss and preserving your natural facial structure and youthful appearance.
- Enhanced Bite Integrity – Dental implants protect your remaining teeth. They prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of alignment and, unlike dental bridges, do not require the grinding down or altering of neighboring healthy teeth for support.
Cosmetic Dentist and Dental Implants in Jonesboro, AR
If you’re in the Jonesboro area and want to learn more about how dental implants can restore your smile, contact dentist Dr. Anthony Bartels and the team at Anthony Bartels DDS to schedule a consultation appointment today.