Dental implants are a very effective solution to replace the loss of one or more teeth, especially multiple missing teeth in one area. It is also a life-enhancing solution for those who are inconvenienced by the day-to-day limitations of dentures. For over sixty years, implants have proven to be a common and successful practice for hundreds of thousands of people. Dental implants, made out of materials that are compatible with human bone and tissue, are placed into the jawbone to act as a secure anchor which holds replacement teeth or dentures. Through a process of “osteointegration”, originally discovered by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon, the jawbone safely and securely fuses itself to the implant over time, creating a lasting bond. The implant then serves as a long-term, solid and stable support, similar to that of a healthy and natural tooth. Although a simple and common procedure, it does require the multi-faceted team approach of a dentist and an oral surgeon. Through the process, your dentist will walk you through each step of the long-lasting, life-enhancing treatment.
There are widespread benefits of implants. Implants allow for improved biting pressure, similar to that of healthy, natural teeth. Additionally, many people with implants experience an overall enhanced quality of life, characterized by increased oral comfort and security–free of the inconvenience of the occasional slippage and “clicking” that can occur with dentures–as well as enhanced facial appearance, with comfort and ease in eating, talking, and smiling. Many regain their preferred eating habits, having the ability to enjoy their favorite foods again. Acting as the closest thing to healthy, natural teeth, implants also afford people more oral stability, increased retention of dentures, and overall oral health protection.
There is a financial and time commitment (the implant transition is a multiple month process) to take into account, yet the long-lasting rewards of dental implants can be well worth the investment. To consider if implants are a viable option for you, talk to your dentist. If dental implants are a option for you, you’ll join the thousands of people who have rediscovered the joys of eating, laughing, smiling, and living a more enhanced daily life.
