Many people have lost teeth due to injury or infection, and this can have the unfortunate effect of making them less willing to show off their smiles. If you are missing one or more teeth, your dentist might suggest that you consider replacing them with dental implants. Here’s why getting dental implants to enhance your appearance and reinforce your oral health is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Tooth Loss Is a Common Problem
While you may think you’re one of the unfortunate few who have lost teeth, the truth is that it’s a very common problem. It’s estimated that 178 million people in America have lost at least one tooth, and 40 million of them suffer from complete tooth loss. Whatever your tooth loss situation is, you can rest assured that your dentist has seen it many times before. Discussing the issue frankly with your dentist can set you on track for restoring your beautiful smile.
Dental Implants Are Incredibly Lifelike
Dental implants consist of a titanium piece surgically placed in the jawbone, an artificial tooth above the gumline, and an abutment piece fastening them together. The artificial tooth is made out of high-quality ceramic or porcelain and customized to match the rest of your smile, making it indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth. After receiving a dental implant, you can rest assured that it will go completely unnoticed by casual observers.
Dental Implants Preserve Your Oral Health
Shortly after the loss of a tooth, the part of the jawbone that supported it begins to atrophy due to lack of exercise. As the bone structure begins to recede, it can pull neighboring teeth out of alignment, making it easier for them to become injured or infected. After a dental implant is placed, its titanium piece will begin to fuse to the surrounding jawbone, allowing it to stimulate the structure just like a real tooth. This can prevent or even reverse bone loss, keeping your jaw strong and your face looking young.
Getting dental implants can be a positive step for both your self-image and your oral health. After a consultation, your dentist will be able to tell you if dental implants are right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Jason Daaboul earned his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School. He takes dozens of hours of continuing education each year, and he is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Fort Worth District Dental Society. His office in Grapevine, TX offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule a dental implant consultation, contact his office online or dial (817) 646-7306.