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Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Dental implants are one of the most amazing ways that dentistry has advanced. When dealing with a missing tooth, the only options used to be dentures made of various questionable materials and that were not always functional. With the invention of dental implants, however, patients were enabled to have an option that looks, feels and functions like natural teeth. Dental implants still have their own pros and cons, though, so are dental implants right for you?

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a permanent dental appliance that replaces a tooth or a group of teeth. They are usually made of titanium, with a realistic natural looking tooth at the top, which is all that is visible, because they are permanently implanted below your gum line in your jaw. Dental implants are made to last for a patient’s lifetime. The crown, or top of the implant, typically lasts 10 to 15 years if cared for properly.

The Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants have many advantages and some disadvantages, so when considering the question, “are dental implants right for you?”, it’s important to talk to your dentist about dental implants and their alternatives to make sure you choose the option that is best for you.

Advantages to dental implants include the fact that they function just like your regular natural teeth. Unlike with dentures or bridges, there is no need to follow extreme dietary restrictions from your favorite foods or worry about them falling out. Dental implants also last longer than their alternatives. Dental implants may also help to protect the structure and health of your natural teeth, jaw and gums, as opposed to dentures that fit on top of your gums, which can lead to sores, or bridges that can put extra stress on the surrounding teeth, potentially leading to additional loss of teeth.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Are dental implants right for you or are there issues that may make another choice better? Only a qualified dental professional can help you answer this question after a thorough exam of your oral health. It’s important to have healthy gums and enough bone in your jaw to properly support your new implant. If you’re facing the possibility of imminent tooth extraction or loss, it’s crucial to talk to your dentist as soon as possible to ensure your best candidacy for dental implants and the best possible outcome for whichever option you decide on.

Dental implants are just one of many options that your dentist can discuss with you as a solution for tooth loss and it’s important to your dentist that you find the option that will best suit your needs, lifestyle and comfort.

Call our Wheat Ridge Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.