Dental Implants and Your Health
Dental implants provide numerous advantages that other types of tooth restoration do not. The artificial roots are placed directly into the jawbone, where the bone creates a bond with the titanium. This bond means that the bone is stimulated to grow when you bite and chew. With traditional dentures, or with bridges, there is no root to encourage bone growth, and the bone atrophies over time. The result is a shrunken look to the face as the upper and lower jaws move closer to each other.
Because implants are stationary and securely set in the jaw, you can eat anything you wish. Some foods, like corn on the cob or apples, can dislodge a denture, but will not have this effect on implants. This means you can eat all the foods you would normally eat, including fruits and vegetables that provide vital nutrients and help you stay healthy. Replacing your teeth with implants also means your other teeth won’t move into the empty spaces left behind when teeth fall out and are not replaced.
Choosing Dental Implants
If you have missing teeth and would like to discuss replacement options with your dentist, be sure to ask about implants. Your dentist will discuss your health and the condition of your mouth to see if there is any reason this might not be a good option. Some issues that could make it difficult for you to heal thoroughly after implant surgery include:
- Gum disease
- Smoking
- Lack of sufficient bone mass in the jaws
- Some medications used to treat osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders
If you have any of these conditions, talk to our dentist to see if they can be dealt with before your implant surgery, or if another tooth replacement option would be more appropriate for you. Call our team today!