Dental implants are meant to replace a lost tooth. These artificial “roots” are implanted directly into the jaw to restore the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth lost to periodontal disease, deterioration, or an injury. Often prosthetic dental implants, like crowns and bridges, are cemented into false or real teeth to cover or “cap” a gap or a damaged tooth. Unlike prosthetic dentures, crowns and bridges are not removable. These must be removed and adjusted by a dental professional.

Here’s what you need to know about dental implants…

Supports the natural shape of the mouth
Lost teeth often result in mouths and faces that appear saggy or sunken in appearance. However, permanent dental implants support the construction of your smile and mouth shape.

No fear of tooth decay
With dental implants, you won’t have to fear tooth deterioration due to cavities, which can occur with a crown. Still, the lasting look, feel, and function of your dental implants will depend on routine oral (i.e., brushing and flossing) hygiene as well as regular checkups with your dentist.

Long-term, cost-effective solution
Dental implants, like bridges and crowns, are considered a long-term, cost-effective solution compared to removable dentures. For instance, dental bridges can last a lifetime if they are cared for properly. However, in many cases, they require replacements every 5- to 10-years when not cared for properly.

No deterioration of the surrounding teeth and jawbone
Gaps left in the mouth can lead to further deterioration and sagging of the jawbone. However, restoration with dental implants can support healthy bone shape and even trigger natural bone growth, preventing further bone deterioration. Dental implants are implanted directly into the jawbone so they don’t impact the surrounding teeth like a tooth-supported bridge, which grinds away the healthy teeth on either side of a missing tooth. This implantation prevents healthy surrounding teeth from shifting into gaps left by missing teeth.

No embarrassing slips or clicks
A huge bonus to dental implants is that there is no slipping or clicking of false teeth (as with removable dentures), you also don’t need to keep your false teeth in a cup overnight. Dental implants stay with you and are cared for just like natural teeth (i.e., with regular brushing, flossing, and gargling with mouthwash). In addition, dental implants are permanent, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without discomfort.