What Are Dental Implants?

Everybody knows the story about George Washington’s wooden dentures, which in truth actually were not made from wood but a combination of hippopotamus ivory and human teeth. Either way, if that sort of replacement does not sound all that desirable to modern dental patients in need of a tooth replacement, rejoice at the innovation of dental implants.

Dental implants use titanium posts or frames surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath healthy gums to serve as mounts for lifelike replacement teeth in sockets that no longer have them. Modern technology has made these implants virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, which is why they have become a much more desirable option than dentures.

Endosteal Implants

These implants are surgically installed into the jawbone, and once the initial surgery has healed, a second stage will connect posts to those initial implants, serving as a mount for the artificial tooth or teeth, connected later by a bridge if necessary.

Benefits of Dental Implants

There are several benefits to using dental implants over other options, including:

Aesthetics

In terms of the way they look and behave, dental implants are as close to healthy, natural teeth as artificial teeth can get. They look and feel like a real tooth, and dentists can even match the exact color of the false teeth with the healthy teeth remaining in your mouth. Losing adult teeth is an excruciating experience, with many people fearing public interactions because of the gaps in their smile. These implants make it so those fears are abated and patients can get back out into the world with the smile they love and deserve.

Durability

Because dental implants are built to last, they are one of the more cost effective options for false teeth, especially when compared to dentures and bridges, which may last only years and ultimately require replacement. Dental implants, if properly maintained, are designed to last a lifetime.

Furthermore, dental implants are strong enough to allow normal eating without limitations on certain foods that would cause damage to bridges or dentures. Because they are so durable, there is no food these implants can’t handle, which is great for those that are used to the limitations of other false teeth.

Health

Dental implants don’t just look good and work well, they also protect the healthy bone in the mouth and jaw. Gaps in soft tissue can lead to infection and other health issues, but dental implants not only help to prevent that but also can stimulate natural bone restoration. On top of everything else, these implants can improve overall dental health, which is just as important, if not more so, than how they look.

If you are interested in dental implants, feel free to contact someone here at Specialty Dental Care, and we will be happy to get you in for a consultation. These implants change lives for the better. There really is no better way to recreate lost teeth!