Replacing missing teeth has been a concern spanning from ancient cultures to modern day dentistry. Dentistry, in its constant drive of evolution, has come up with cutting-edge techniques of tooth replacement and one such solution is dental implants.
Dental implants, today, stand as one of the most refined and advanced solutions to missing teeth. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth, designed to match your natural teeth, essentially making them the modern-day solution to a timeless problem.
Let’s delve deeper into what dental implants are and why they are gaining such prominence in the field of oral health.
A dental implant surgery involves the placement of artificial tooth roots. These roots, generally made of titanium, are infixed in the bone sockets of the missing teeth. Rightfully so, the strength and durability of titanium enable it to bond seamlessly with the bone, providing an unrivaled sturdy base. A tailor-made, artificial dental implants tooth—known as a crown—is then attached to this base. This procedure replaces the missing tooth in its entirety—both in function and appearance.
The advantage of dental implants over its traditional counterparts like bridges and dentures is manifold. For one, since implants replace the root along with the tooth, they feel and look more natural, giving back not just functionality, but also confidence to the patient. Dental implants also come without the hassle of removing them for cleaning as they can be brushed and flossed like your natural teeth.
Moreover, one of the widespread issues of missing teeth is bone loss in the jaw—this is due to the lack of stimulation that the root of a tooth usually provides. Dental implants address this concern by replicating the same stimulation, preventing additional bone loss.
Furthermore, unlike bridgework, dental implants don’t require the disruption of the neighbouring healthy teeth – they stand on their own without any support. This ensures the long-term health of the surrounding teeth and overall oral health improvement.
However, getting dental implants is not a straightforward process—it involves multiple stages and several dental visits over a span of a few months. Also, like every surgical procedure, this comes with its share of risks such as infection, nerve damage, and sinus problems. But with skilled dental practitioners at the helm, these risks are quite minimal and manageable.
It’s also important to emphasize that dental implants are not for everyone—you need to have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination to decide if dental implants are the right option for you.
Financially, dental implants are considered a pricey option. However, their durability and low maintenance may end up proving cost-effective in the longer run.
Undoubtedly, dental implants have revolutionized how missing teeth are being treated, offering a more permanent and natural-feeling solution. They are the modern response to an age-old problem, bringing confidence back to those who have lost teeth for various reasons.
Thus, if you’re considering alternatives for missing teeth, it’s worth exploring dental implants. Not only will they restore your missing teeth, but they’ll also award you the freedom to smile, eat, and engage in social activities without worrying about your teeth.