Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth restoration. These durable, lifelike prosthetics are permanently attached to your jawbone, so they work and feel just like your natural teeth. But just how realistic are they? If you’re curious about what your dental implants can (and can’t) do, keep reading for some fascinating facts below!
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prosthetic tooth restorations. They are comprised of three parts: the implant post (a titanium rod that is attached to your jaw), the abutment (where the tooth sits), and the crown (the tooth).
Because they are secured into the bone itself, your dental implants are permanently attached and can only be removed by a dentist or dental surgeon.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
In addition to looking just like natural teeth, dental implants also have the benefit of functioning like them, too. You can chew a full diet of foods with them, they are easy to clean (just like your real teeth) and they help stimulate your jawbone and prevent deterioration and bone loss. They even maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth, so there’s no need to worry about them shifting out of place.
Best of all, because they’re permanent, you won’t be required to replace your dental implants every five to ten years like you would with other types of restorations such as dentures or bridges.
Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Because your dental implants are not real teeth, they cannot get cavities or infections, however the area surrounding your implants is not immune to illness. Thus, you should still brush and floss your teeth (even the fake ones!) twice a day and continue seeing your dentist for your biannual exam and cleaning appointments.
If you do notice sensitivity surrounding your implant, this could be a sign of gum disease or a gum infection, or it could potentially be a warning sign of implant failure. Thus, any discomfort surrounding your dental implant should be treated urgently.
Remember, your dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and use. They’re a permanent, durable, and natural looking way to replace one or more lost permanent teeth and provide a variety of oral health benefits that other prosthetics simply cannot compete with. To learn more about if you qualify for dental implants, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Fitzgerald
Dr. Alison Fitzgerald enjoys helping her patients achieve their oral health goals. Whether she’s providing an important oral health exam, helping them get a better night’s sleep with sleep apnea therapy, or restoring their smile with the help of dental implants, she’s proud to provide meaningful solutions that improve their lives and their smiles!
If you are interested in learning more about if dental implants are right for you, schedule an appointment with Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry & Orthodontics today by visiting our website or calling us at 520-338-2980.