5 Reasons You Should Consider Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great option to correct tooth loss. The dental procedure can replace one or several teeth, depending on your needs. Implants allow you to chew and talk normally and still leave you with a beautiful smile. 

Over the years, dental implants have become more affordable. They have become popular because of their benefits. Below are some reasons you should consider dental implants.

1. Look and Feel Like Natural Teeth

Dental implants match your natural teeth in form and functionality. Dentists anchor the tooth replacements into the jawbone, so they feel and look like your own. Implants can also withstand biting forces and chewing pressures, so you don't have to worry about them breaking or chipping.

Implants comprise titanium and other biocompatible materials. Implants have a unique screw-in design that allows the dentist to remove them should there ever be a need. An abutment holds a crown or bridge and covers the dental implant top. The two-piece design ensures the crown fits on the implant.

2. Minimal Maintenance

Dental implants are easy to maintain and keep clean. The care for dental implants is the same as that of your natural teeth. A toothbrush and floss are all you need, although we recommend using an electric toothbrush to maximize plaque removal. 

The main task with dental implants is keeping up with regular appointments. During the appointments, your dentist examines the implant site for signs of deterioration or infection. Your dentist will take action as needed to correct any problems that arise.

3. Prevent Bone Loss

The most common cause of bone loss is tooth loss. Your body needs teeth to stimulate the growth of new bone in your jaw. When you lose teeth, the natural alignment of your jawbone deteriorates. 

The human body breaks down bone where the tooth's missing to make room for your tongue and other surrounding muscles. This causes what's known as bone resorption — an irreversible process that can make your mouth less stable.

Dental implants can prevent bone loss by fusing to the jawbone and stimulating bone growth in the same way as your natural teeth. Implants also support the remaining natural teeth and bones in your mouth.

4. A Permanent Replacement Option

Dental implants last decades, even a lifetime, if they're well cared for. Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. Implants fuse with the jawbone as new bone grows around it, keeping them in place for the rest of your life.

You can have implants taken out if an accident or injury happens to the implants in the mouth. However, with proper care, implants should keep their original condition without the need to remove or replace them.

5. Prevent Teeth Misalignment

A gap in the jawline can cause adjacent teeth to shift left or right. The shifting of teeth positions eventually lead to misalignment of your face support. 



Some oral problems you may experience as a result are:

• Discomfort
• Gaps between teeth
• Gum disease
• Skin sagging

Dental implants prevent the problems mentioned above and improve your appearance. 

Getting the right dental implant gives you the smile you've always wanted and makes you enjoy eating your favorite foods again. Whether you are a current implant patient or simply considering implants, there are many more reasons to choose dental implants than there are to avoid them. 

Implants need some effort in their upkeep and installation, but the benefits can be well worth it. If you have missing teeth, consult with your dentist. Contact the San Diego Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery to learn if dental implants are a good fit for you.