If you’re needing one or more teeth replaced, you have a lot to consider. Not only is the look of your smile affected, but eventually, missing teeth can lead to gum disease, jawbone deterioration, and a negative change in your facial structure. With all of the advancements made in restorative dentistry, your Virginia Beach dentist understands that you have a lot of options when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Keep reading to learn why the cosmetic benefits of dental implants make them a top contender amongst other methods.
The Cosmetic Benefits of Dental Implants
When it comes to living with missing teeth, there are the obvious issues of decreased functionality in regards to chewing and speaking, but there are also aesthetics to think about. Since their first debut, restorative dental technology has brought implants a long way, and here are a few reasons why they’re a superior choice:
Jawbone Strengthening
Over time, missing teeth can lead to deterioration of the jaw bone, but dental implants can actually help to promote new growth. When your dentist inserts the metal rod into your jaw, the goal is for it to eventually fuse with the existing bone. This is not something that is possible with dentures or bridges. When treatment is successful, the bone tissue will actually strengthen, protecting it from further damage and keeping your overall facial structure looking youthful for years to come.
Healing Gums
Your gums do more than hold your teeth tightly in place. They also protect the soft tissues underneath from infection. When a tooth is missing, it leaves the surrounding gums open to infection, which can eventually lead to gum disease and cause recession of the gums. Unlike other prosthetics, dental implants can be more optimally positioned in a way that will actually allow the gums to heal on their own time while protecting them from further infection.
Better Design
Your dental needs won’t be the same as your neighbor’s, and you may find yourself in need of tooth replacement in areas of your mouth that are nowhere near one another. Additionally, if you’ve lived without missing teeth for a while, there is a possibility that the remaining teeth have shifted in order to close the gaps, leaving a unique space to fill. Dental implants are a perfect option in these cases because your dentist can craft individual prosthetics that are specifically designed to fill those spaces in a way that bridges and dentures can’t.
Don’t let the options for restorative dentistry overwhelm you. It can seem daunting to know which to choose, but your dentist can asses your specific needs and help you figure out if dental implants are a good choice for you.
About the Practice
The team of restorative dental experts at Smile By Design is committed to ensuring that your smile stays healthy. When it comes to dental implant treatment, their combined skills, knowledge, and experience make their practice the best place to receive superior quality care. If you’re ready to talk about dental implants as an option for missing teeth, request an appointment with us online or call (757) 499-9639.