What are dental implants, and are they the best solution for your tooth loss?

Losing a tooth can be physically painful, uncomfortable, and it can affect us emotionally when we lose confidence in our smile. There are many causes for tooth loss as an adult — a tooth fracture, tooth decay, gum disease, old fillings, an injury — and it can be irritating and frustrating. Luckily, there is a solution to help restore oral health and confidence after tooth loss, and that’s why over 3 million Americans today have dental implants. Specifically, single dental implants. 

What is a single dental implant? 

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, a dental implant is an artificial tooth root. Although it looks like something you could buy at your local hardware store, it’s actually made of titanium. The purpose of the dental implant is to bond with your natural jawbone to restore the structural integrity of the tooth. Finally, the implant is capped with a customized crown to form an artificial tooth that fits perfectly. 

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Although dental implants have been a preferred option for patients during the past few decades, they actually have ancient roots dating back to 600 CE. Archeologists have found evidence of shells that resemble teeth hammered into the jaws of Mayan women. Ouch!! 

Luckily, advances in modern dentistry have made dental implant surgery more common and much less painful for patients. It’s actually one of the safest procedures in dentistry today. No hammers involved, we promise!         

Are dental implants right for me?

Rotting teeth are uncomfortable at best. When a tooth is in an unhealthy condition in which it should be removed, chances are you’re experiencing discomfort and even pain. A decaying tooth impacts the things you do every day, throughout the day — eating, drinking, talking, swallowing. 

There are many methods for replacing a missing tooth, so it would be best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Anantuni. When considering dental restoration, especially with dental implants, one of the most critical components for your dentist to evaluate is your bone structure and density. Dental implants need to infuse to strong and healthy bone. So if bone density is compromised, then it’s possible that dental implants may not be the best solution for you. 

Benefits of single dental implants.

If you are a candidate for dental implants, then it’s important to understand why it’s one of the best options for restorative dentistry. Mainly, dental implants have proven to be the strongest and the most aesthetically natural-looking option for replacing missing teeth. 

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Here are the top reasons we are advocates for dental implants: 

• Aesthetics: Dental implants can help restore confidence in your smile because they look and feel just like your natural teeth. They are not your grandmother’s dentures!
• Oral health: After removing the decaying or injured tooth, the implant replaces the root of your tooth. As the implant bonds to your jawbone over time, studies have shown that additional bone loss is much less likely in dental implant patients. 
• Longevity: Dental implants are as close to a permanent solution as you can get. They are more stable than dentures or bridges because the implants are fused to your jawbone. As long as you take proper care of them, dental implants can be just as durable as your natural teeth and are a much better option for the long term. 
• Lifestyle benefits: Beyond a picture-perfect smile, it’s important to consider how dental implants can affect your everyday life. Because the implant is infused into your bone and is more stable and durable, it’s not as disruptive to your everyday activities such as eating and speaking. 

If a decaying or injured tooth is causing you pain and discomfort, it’s important to address it as soon as possible. Luckily, there are modern solutions like dental implants to help effectively restore your oral health and your bright smile. Contact our office today for a consultation and find out if a dental implant can help you look and feel your best!