I have always been an avid hockey player, and my love took a bad turn one day when I got struck in the mouth with the puck. It was a painful moment that left me with two teeth knocked out of my mouth. Had I taken the right steps after the accident, I could have possibly saved the teeth, but I did not know I had that option at the time. Thankfully, I worked up the courage to visit a dentist and ask what my options for teeth-replacement were. I was worried I would would have to live the rest of my life without smiling, but I was ecstatic to learn that I was the perfect candidate for dental implants. I created this blog to help others realize that there are so many options to replace missing teeth today that no one has to "just live with" an imperfect smile!
Dental implants are often recognized for their role in restoring a smile by replacing missing teeth. However, the benefits associated with dental implants are not limited to aesthetics alone. There are several unforeseen advantages that can be enjoyed when dental implants are chosen.
Preservation of Jawbone Structure
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone could end up deteriorating due to the lack of stimulation from chewing and biting. This gradual loss of bone can lead to changes in facial structure over time, potentially affecting the overall appearance and causing issues with bite alignment. However, with dental implants, an artificial tooth root is inserted into the jawbone, providing the necessary stimulation and support for the surrounding bone. This mimics the natural function of teeth, preventing bone loss and maintaining the health and integrity of the jawbone. By preserving the bone structure, dental implants not only restore the aesthetics and functionality of the smile but also contribute to long-term oral health and overall well-being.
Enhancement of Nutritional Intake
Difficulty in chewing is often experienced by individuals who have missing teeth or those who use dentures. This can limit their ability to consume certain foods, especially those that are hard or crunchy. Dental implants function like natural teeth, which ends up enabling individuals being able to take part in a wide variety of foods. Improved nutritional intake, which is critical for overall health, can therefore be facilitated by dental implants.
Prevention of Adjacent Teeth Shifting
Gaps left by missing teeth could end up causing the adjacent teeth to shift, leading to misaligned teeth. This can affect the bite and make cleaning more difficult, increasing the risk of oral health issues. Dental implants fill these gaps and provide support to the adjacent teeth, preventing them from shifting.
Reduction of Speech Problems
Speech clarity can be affected by missing teeth, as certain sounds require the tongue to make contact with the teeth. Dentures, while helpful, can slip or click during speech, causing embarrassment. Dental implants, being securely anchored in the jawbone, do not slip. Enhanced speech clarity can thus be an unforeseen benefit of dental implants.
Boosting of Self-Confidence
The impact of dental implants on self-confidence, while not a physical health benefit, should not be underestimated. Having a complete set of teeth can improve one's appearance significantly. This could end up leading to increased self-esteem and confidence, positively influencing social interactions and mental well-being.
Long-Term Cost Effectiveness
While the initial cost of dental implants might be higher than additional tooth replacement options, their longevity makes them a cost-effective solution in the long run. Dental implants are regarded for both their durability as well as their longevity with proper care. The costs associated with replacements and repairs, common with dentures and bridges, can thus be avoided.
While dental implants are primarily sought for tooth replacement, the benefits they offer go beyond just filling gaps in one's smile. The preservation of jawbone structure, enhancement of nutritional intake, prevention of teeth shifting, reduction of speech problems, boosting of self-confidence, and long-term cost-effectiveness are all unforeseen advantages that contribute to the increasing popularity of dental implants. For more information on dental implants, contact a professional near you.
Share19 September 2023
