5 Surprising Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-lasting, attractive, and durable solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges that are supported by the healthy teeth adjacent to the gap, dental implants rely on the bone of your jaw for support. This helps to preserve the health of the surrounding teeth and jaw and prevents bone loss. In addition, dental implants applied by dentist in Stoney Creek, do not require the additional procedures that are often required to maintain and repair bridges. In this blog post, we will discuss five surprising benefits of dental implants that go beyond aesthetics and improve overall oral health.

1. Restored Chewing Power

The biggest benefit of dental implants is that they restore full chewing power. Unlike bridges, which often rely on the healthy adjacent teeth for support, dental implants are fused into the jawbone, allowing you to eat and speak normally. This also improves digestion by ensuring that food is properly chewed before it is swallowed. In addition, dental implants help to prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting out of place, which can lead to bite problems and TMJ issues down the road.

2. Improved Speech

When a tooth is lost, it can cause gaps in the mouth, which can result in slurred or mumbled speech. Filling the empty space with a dental implant allows you to speak clearly again and improves the appearance of your smile.

3. Reduced Risk of Future Dental Problems

Unlike other replacement options, dental implants are made from titanium, which is biocompatible and fused into the bone. This means that dental implants will not erode or decay and can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene. In addition, dental implants are not susceptible to the complications associated with other replacement options, such as the need for additional procedures and the use of adhesives.

4. Protects Bone Health

Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates bone growth in the jaw, which helps to prevent bone resorption and preserve the shape of your face and jaw. In contrast, when a tooth is missing, the bone in the jaw degrades over time and can impact the neighboring teeth. Dental implants are anchored in the bone and help to prevent this resorption by providing support to the surrounding healthy teeth.

5. Cost-Effective Solution

Despite their initial cost, dental implants are more affordable than other tooth replacement solutions over the long term due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Moreover, they can provide a number of health benefits that can help to reduce medical costs in the future.

Most people in good general health are able to receive dental implants, provided they have enough bone to support them and are committed to practicing good oral hygiene. Heavy smokers, patients with uncontrolled chronic conditions, and those who have received radiation therapy to the head/neck area may not be suitable candidates for dental implants. In these cases, a bone graft, which can add bone density, may be required. Fortunately, advances in diagnostics and bone reconstruction now make it possible for many more people to enjoy the advantages of dental implants.