Adjusting to life after tooth loss can be challenging. Left untreated, the affected area can become infected, allow remaining teeth to shift out of alignment, and offer no protection against the loss of jawbone density that often accompanies tooth loss.
The good news is that a person's decision on how to address the area vacated by lost teeth can make all the difference in restoring tooth loss quality of life. Dental implants are the best decision for anyone committed to restoring the form, function, and aesthetics of their smile and bite and ensuring the long-term health and robustness of their jawbone.
Let's look at how these tiny titanium marvels can set your smile straight!
What Is Dental Implant Placement?
Dental implant placement is a long-term solution for tooth loss in which artificial roots, in the form of small titanium pegs, are surgically placed into the empty socket left in the jawbone following tooth loss. After it's placed by an oral surgeon, a dental implant is allowed to fuse permanently with the jawbone over a few weeks via osseointegration. This permanently fixes the implant in place and enables it to function as a completely natural-feeling replacement tooth root and anchor point for a restoration like a dental crown.
The Biggest Benefits of Dental Implants
Among the numerous reasons why dental implants are so popular and highly regarded, here are a few of the most significant:
- Implants offer greater durability than other replacement options. With proper care, almost all dental implants last at least ten years without retreatment, with many lasting quite a bit longer—in some cases, even a lifetime!
- Dental implants feel and function exactly like natural teeth. As a result, they place no dietary restrictions on their recipients.
- By addressing the empty socket in the jawbone, implants provide the stimulation required to maintain jawbone density.
- Implants help to maintain bit integrity and prevent potential jawbone issues by preventing remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment after tooth loss.
Of course, make sure to consult with your dentist to confirm whether dental implants are right for you.
Precisely Placed Dental Implants in Chesterfield, MO
If you're looking for a dentist in Chesterfield with the experience and expertise to guide you through the full dental implant process, from consultation to placement to aftercare, contact me, Dr. Scott Mahlin, DDS, and the friendly and knowledgeable Clarkson Dental Group team to schedule a consultation!