If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants are one of the best possible solutions to restore a healthy and functional smile. A dental or tooth implant is a permanent tooth replacement option and can restore bite and proper chewing function. If you’ve lost teeth through an accident, tooth disease, or simply through the aging process, it can affect what kind of foods you can eat while also making you self-conscious.
Your teeth can have a large impact on how confident you feel as you talk, smile and laugh with the people around you. Having missing teeth can have a big impact on your social life and sense of self-esteem. Fortunately, with modern dentistry techniques, there are a range of effective solutions to address the problem of missing teeth beyond traditional dentures, such as dental implants.
When are Dental Implants Needed?
If your tooth gets knocked out or can’t be saved through a root canal treatment, a dental implant is a good way of replacing the missing tooth. Beyond affecting your self-image and what you can eat, missing teeth can also have other health consequences, such as bone loss. Dental implants are quickly becoming the most popular long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.
Unlike dentures, dental implants are a permanent solution that look and work almost exactly like natural teeth. They can be used by anyone regardless of age as long as you are in good health. Dental implants are very comfortable and can be used exactly like normal teeth. This means you can smile, laugh and talk with ease and comfort. You can also eat whatever you like without any issues.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Modern dental implants look, feel, function and fit just like the natural tooth they replace. Unlike dentures or removable plates, there’s no need to worry about your new tooth or teeth ever falling out or having to remove them to clean or sleep. Dental implants remain securely fixed for life, taking the stress out of caring for replacement teeth.
Dental implants are an ideal long-term solution for missing teeth and improving your smile. They’ll last a lifetime when properly cared for. Bridges and dentures, on the other hand, may only last 5 to 10 years before they need to be replaced.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Caring for your dental implants is just like caring for natural teeth. Make sure you brush twice a day, floss daily and have regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Dental implants that are well maintained should ensure a lifetime without any dental health issues. Remember that while replacement teeth are immune to cavities, they can still experience wear and tear. Cleaning plaque off them is absolutely essential for preventing gum disease and abscesses.
Some people with dental implants develop gum disease because they start paying less attention to their oral hygiene routine because they know porcelain dental implants aren’t as vulnerable as natural teeth to plaque-causing bacteria. They also won’t experience symptoms the same way as someone with natural teeth. As it’s common not to feel anything during the early stages of gum disease, it’s easy for the condition to advance quickly without diligent care.
Dental Implants Melbourne
If you’d like to find out if you’re a good candidate for tooth implants, book an appointment at King Street Dental in Melbourne. We provide a wide range of general, emergency and cosmetic dentistry services in a relaxed atmosphere. Book an appointment today by calling 03 9841 8033 or contact us online.