Dental implants are sturdy, attractive replacements for missing or damaged teeth. Implants last much longer than other tooth replacements like bridges and dentures.
The implant post can last a lifetime with proper home care and regular dental visits. The crown, bridge, or denture on top may need periodic replacement every 7 to 10 years or longer with excellent care.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Protects Oral Health
Dental implants protect oral health by keeping teeth stable. Missing teeth cause their neighbors to drift into different positions. These teeth may become gapped, crowded, or crossed, making them harder to keep clean. Gum disease and cavities may result from poorly aligned teeth.
Restore Chewing Function
Dental implants provide excellent chewing ability. Within reason, patients can eat what they like without worry that the implant will break or become dislodged. Chewy, hard, and crunchy foods are no longer an issue with dental implants.
Restore Appearance
People with gaps in their smiles often avoid showing their teeth in public or photographs. They may feel they can't share their authentic selves with friends and family. Dental implants can make patients feel like they want to smile again.
Preserve Jawbone Mass
After tooth extraction, the jawbone begins to break down around the socket due to loss of chewing stimulation. The jawbone can shrink up to 25 percent in the first year after tooth extraction. Lost jawbone mass leads to facial changes and a "sunken" look, aging the patient's appearance. Implant posts provide chewing stimulation like a natural root and allow the jaw to retain its volume.
Improve Quality of Life
Patients who do not have to worry about their teeth can relax and enjoy life. Patients can eat what they like without the worry that they will break their dental restorations, and they can share their improved smile with the world.
Good Candidates for Dental Implants
Patients who are good candidates for this procedure share the following characteristics:
- Generally good oral health with no untreated tooth decay or gum disease
- Healthy enough for surgery
- Sufficient jawbone mass or ability to undergo a bone graft procedure before receiving an implant
- Non-smokers or willing to quit since tobacco use impairs healing
Protecting the Longevity of Dental Implants
Patients should consider these points to keep their dental implants viable for years. Be sure to brush and floss daily as recommended, keeping the mouth and gums healthy. Keep all scheduled dental appointments so your doctor can check the status of your implants and ensure you are taking proper care of your teeth.
Call Wilson Park Dental
To learn how dental implants can improve your life, please call our Rapid City, SD office at 605-343-9352 today. We can schedule a consultation with one of our skilled dentists to answer your questions and determine whether you are a good candidate for this procedure.