Have you lost one, multiple, or all of your teeth? If so, our dental team is here to help. Depending on your situation, we may recommend dental implants. Contrary to popular belief, a dental implant is not a tooth. You can think of it as a new base for a tooth to attach.

A dental implant is essentially a metal post, made of titanium or ceramic zirconium. It looks a bit like a screw and comes in various widths and lengths. More than three million people in the U.S. have improved their smiles with dental implants. 

Let’s take a closer look at what dental implants are and how you may benefit from them. 

Good Candidates for Dental Implants

There are a number of reasons we suggest dental implants. If you have one or multiple missing teeth or a decayed tooth that’s beyond repair, they are likely a good option. This is particularly true if you don’t like the idea of or are uncomfortable with dentures or a bridge. 

In previous years, dental implants didn’t support patients with insufficient bone or certain health conditions. Fortunately, technology has advanced significantly and made it possible for most patients to receive implants. 

Benefits of Dental Implants

The most notable advantages of dental implants include:

Functions Like Natural Teeth

Most patients report that they can’t differentiate their natural teeth from their implant teeth. Implants restore chewing power completely and make it easy for you to eat, brush, and floss as you normally would. 

Lasts a Long Time

Other restorations like dental bridges, for example, only last for about 10 years. Dental implants, however, may last a lifetime, as long as you take great care of your teeth. Since they’re made from titanium and integrate with the jawbone, they’re biocompatible. This means that it won’t be rejected by your body. 

Prevents Bone Loss

When there are no tooth roots or implants that stimulate the jaw bone, implants may arise. While dentures often accelerate bone loss as they loosen and rub against the ridge, implants prevent it. They offer the stimulation necessary for natural bone growth. 

Reduces the Risk of Gum Disease

Unfortunately, missing teeth cause gaps that may create traps for food and bacteria. If you experience this, you may develop gum disease, which is a serious gum infection that can take a serious toll on your mouth and teeth. 

Inhibits Facial Sagging

Most people don’t associate missing teeth with facial sagging. The reality is that they go hand in hand. Missing teeth often cause bone loss that forces the lower third of the face to collapse and close the distance between the tip of the nose and chin. This may lead to wrinkles that surround the mouth, thinning lips, and other changes that can make you look older than you really are. 

Schedule an Appointment at Davidson & Burr Today

If you have any questions about dental implants or want to know whether you’re a good candidate for this treatment, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our Mooresville office. Call us at 704-663-1800 today.