Do You Have Missing Teeth? 8 Reasons to Choose Tooth Implants
If you have any gaps in your grin or damaged teeth that are beyond repair, tooth implants could be the ideal solution.
When placed by an experienced Solana Beach dentist, one who specializes in cosmetic, reconstructive and implant dentistry, dental implants have an extraordinarily high success rate. But that’s far from the only reason they’re head and shoulders above the alternatives.
So, what’s so great about tooth implants? Take a look at the advantages of implant dentistry, and you’ll understand why so many people in the city of Solana Beach, California, take this route to teeth replacement
#1 – Get a Naturally Beautiful Smile
Tooth implants look incredibly real – with today’s advanced technology, skilled and experienced Solana Beach dentists are able to design replacement teeth that closely mimic the natural teeth in shape, size and shade. Flippers and bridges are often obvious at a glance, but even up close, dental implants look as if they grew in place.
#2 – Save Healthy Teeth from Harm
Dental bridges need the natural teeth for support. To that end, the surface enamel of the tooth on either side of the gap must be shaved down – and that leaves them more susceptible to decay. Tooth implants are stand-alone restorations, and since they rely on the jawbone for support, the adjacent teeth remain unharmed.
#3 – Preserve Tooth Alignment
The gap from a missing tooth can create a more crooked smile, as over time, the teeth nearby shift toward that area. Misalignment can affect the bite and the ability to chew, and in some cases, it can lead to a painful jaw condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Implants help maintain tooth alignment and keep the smile stable.
#4 – Enjoy Your Favorite Foods
After replacing missing teeth with a traditional dental bridge, Solana Beach patients often have to forgo eating certain foods. Any that are hard, sticky or crunchy are generally off the menu, and most people don’t enjoy having limits on the diet. With tooth implants, this isn’t a concern – once healed, patients can eat anything they like.
#5 – Prevent Bone Loss in the Jaw
For anyone living with missing teeth, bone loss in the jaw is inevitable – without the tooth roots providing stimulation, the jaw can’t maintain its density. Flippers and dental bridges don’t address this problem, but tooth implants act as replacement tooth roots, so they actually put a stop to jawbone degeneration.
#6 – Improve Your Oral Health
Missing teeth leave the gum tissues vulnerable, and with gaps in the smile, the risk of developing gingivitis and periodontitis are quite high. Again, getting a flipper or dental bridge isn’t a solution, as the space underneath the restoration is a trap for food particles. Tooth implants protect the gums, leading to better oral health.
#7 – Easily Take Care of Your Smile
Anyone who wants a simple oral hygiene routine won’t get that with a dental bridge — those replacement teeth require special attention to prevent unexpected trips to a Solana Beach dentist. In comparison, tooth implants are as easy to maintain as a natural smile, requiring only regular brushing, flossing and routine checkups.
#8 – Have Permanent Replacement Teeth
A well-maintained dental bridge can last up to ten years or so without requiring a major repair or adjustment. Sometimes, though, bridges need to be adjusted or replaced much sooner. Getting tooth implants means replacement restorations are unnecessary – with proper care, implanted teeth can remain stable and beautiful for a lifetime.
Need Dentures? Benefits of an Implant-Supported Restoration
If you’re in need of full arch restoration – or, in other words, replacement teeth for the entire upper or lower jaw – conventional dentures aren’t the only option. Tooth implants can support and stabilize a denture, providing you with a set of beautiful teeth that makes you want to smile.
Many years ago, this type of restoration would have required a separate implant for each of the missing teeth. But thanks to the All-on-4® technique, developed back in 1998, four tooth implants are all it takes to support a full dental arch.
Why choose an implant-supported restoration over traditional dentures? Consider the advantages:
- Implant-supported dentures feel perfectly natural, and even after being relined or adjusted, traditional dentures may never feel right.
- All-on-4® tooth implants can remain in great shape for life with proper care, while dentures need to be replaced every five to seven years.
- With a conventional upper or lower denture, eating certain foods isn’t advisable – and some foods are more or less impossible to chew.
- People who opt for dentures supported by dental implants never have to worry about annoying clicking sounds while eating.
- Unlike an implant-supported denture, a traditional upper denture covers the roof of the mouth, which interferes with the sense of taste.
- Tooth implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, so there’s never any embarrassing slippage when eating or speaking.
- Implant-supported restorations help prevent bone loss, while conventional dentures can lead to issues with degeneration and facial sagging.
Are Tooth Implants or Implant-Supported Dentures Right for You
After reading about all of the benefits, you can see why Solana Beach dentists recommend dental implant placement – but is it the right solution for your missing teeth?
For expert help in making your decision, turn to the professional team at Solana Smiles & Implant Center. As specialists in cosmetic, reconstructive and implant dentistry, we have what it takes to find the best way to restore the health and beauty of your smile. Contact our dentist office in Solana Beach, California, and schedule an appointment to discuss tooth implants today!
