Are Dental Implants Right For You?
If you have missing teeth, dental implants can fill in these gaps so that you'll have a full set of teeth again. These implants can be surgically implanted into the jawbone to act as tooth roots to hold artificial teeth that will eventually be placed where your real teeth once were. If you're wondering whether you're an ideal candidate for dental implants, here are some key factors that you and your dentist should consider to determine if this treatment will be your best choice.
You want a permanent solution.
Dental implants may offer you a permanent solution that restores your dental health for good. Permanent implants are designed to remain in place and hold artificial teeth like real teeth, and these artificial teeth aren't meant to be removed like dentures. However, your dentist may recommend removable prosthetic teeth to go with your implants if you'll likely benefit the most from this option. Standard dentures often wear down and need to be replaced eventually, but you may never have to have your implants replaced if you take good care of them.
You want teeth that look and feel natural.
Dentures are designed to simulate the appearance and feel of real teeth, but dental implants may work even better. The artificial teeth that are held in place by the implants are designed to match the color and shapes of real teeth so that they don't look phony or out of place. You may also notice that you talk and chew food easier with dental implants than if you had dentures.
Dentures or bridges won't work well for you.
Your mouth might not hold dentures or bridgework well because of changes in the gums or supporting natural teeth, and dental implants may be a better option. Dental implants should definitely be considered if dentures irritate the inside of your mouth or cause problems with talking or chewing. You may also struggle with denture adhesives, which you won't need to worry about if you opt for fixed dental implants.
You have a fully developed jawbone.
If your jawbone is fully developed, it will likely be strong enough to hold the dental implants in place. The jawbone must be fully developed and healthy enough so that the rods that will act as tooth roots can be implanted properly. If your jawbone has decreased too much in size because of bone loss, your dentist will probably advise you not to get implants.
Dental implants can possibly give you the full set of beautiful teeth that helps brighten your smile. Talk to a dental professional to learn more about how dental implants work along with their benefits.