A dental implant is often the preferred option to replace a missing tooth. The implant, which doesn't just rest in the mouth at the gum line, is actually inserted through the gingival tissues into the jawbone. During the months following the placement of an implant, the device integrates with the tissues of the jawbone, causing it to be fixed in position.
The connection that results from the osseointegration of the implant is so secure that the device can withstand a similar amount of bite pressure to a natural tooth root. Still, the placement of an implant does not complete the restoration of a lost tooth.
Once the wound from the implant insertion has fully healed, the dentist can add an abutment, or connector, to allow the dental implant to be covered by an appropriate crown-replacement device. Dental caps, dentures, and bridge crowns may be connected to a dental implant for a secure connection in the mouth.
Here are a few benefits of using dental implants for tooth replacement.
Bone Density Support
A healthy jawbone is thick and dense. In order for the jawbone to remain healthy, it must produce new bone cells regularly. The production of new bone cells is incited by the stimulation that the bone receives from bite pressure.
During mastication, the pressure experienced by the teeth is transferred to the bone tissues, where it encourages the development of new cells. With an implant, the pressure that is experienced by the device is also communicated to the bone. Thus, the jawbone still responds with new cell production.
A healthy jawbone is necessary to support the facial tissues and avoid a worn, haggard look. Additionally, a thin or atrophied jawbone may not offer proper support to the natural teeth, making tooth loss more likely.
Stability
Because the implant integrates with the jawbone, it is as stable as a natural tooth. As a result, the device does not move about during episodes of chewing.
This stability makes the implant a great foundation for tooth replacement options.
Aesthetics
An implant-based restoration can be quite natural-looking. Before the placement of the crown-replacement device, the gums around the implant are contoured to help the restoration look as natural as possible. Additionally, the crown that covers the device can be colored to match the natural color of the patient's other teeth.
Once the restoration is complete, it is difficult to discern it from a natural tooth.
To learn more about dental implants, schedule a consultation with a dental office in your local area, like Signature Smiles Greenville.
Share8 July 2021
When the bottled water craze began, I jumped on the bandwagon with everyone else who was drinking water from bottles instead of from the tap. I wasn't sure why bottled water was healthier, but I liked the taste. When I went for my next dental check-up, I had my first cavity in a while, so I had it filled and didn't think much of it. Well, I had two more during my next check-up after that, and I began trying to think of why my teeth were suddenly going bad. The only change in my habits was the switch to bottled water, so I made the switch back to tap water and my teeth began to improve. I created this blog to encourage others who have begun getting cavities suddenly to look into their changes in habits. They may find they made a change similar to mine.