How Dental Implants Work

Woman about to bite an apple. Caption: Dental implants look, feel, and function, like natural teeth.

It might surprise you to know just how prevalent tooth loss is in our society. Here are some astounding numbers:

  • More than 35 million people in America don’t have any teeth.
  • 175 million people in America are missing at least one tooth.
  • 69% of Americans, age 35-44, are missing at least one tooth.
  • 25% of Americans over 74 are missing all of their natural teeth.

With the statistics in mind, it’s more important than ever to understand the solutions to missing teeth. It’s also important to know their relation to health and happiness.

WHY USE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

It’s very important to fill the gaps left by missing teeth. Fortunately, dental implants are the most stable, secure, and permanent way to do so. When one tooth falls out, the surrounding teeth begin to shift into the space. This causes misalignment and the orientation of the remaining teeth. Worse, the bone structure under the missing tooth begins to resorb, leading to a loosening and sagging of the facial structure.

Dentures can alleviate these problems but to a much more limited degree than full implants. Additionally, dentures are a hassle to remove and reattach, and can easily fail. They also restrict the kinds of foods you can eat and lower your confidence.

HOW DENTAL IMPLANTS WORK

Dental implants anchor single teeth, bridges with a single anchor, or bridges that hold a full set of replacement teeth. The implants themselves are drilled directly into the jawbone. Over time, they fuse together with the bone, providing a strong, supporting base. These anchors serve the dual purposes of holding the teeth permanently and securely in place and maintaining the integrity of the jaw bones and face. The replacement teeth feel and operate just like natural teeth, and must be properly cared for just like natural teeth. Without continued oral hygiene, the mouth is still vulnerable to plaque and gum disease, which threatens implants.

If you have damaged or missing teeth, take advantage of implant dentistry right away! Implants can give you new secure and functional teeth and help maintain the shape of your jaw and facial bones. Contact Dental Partners of Boston, and let our top experts help you evaluate your needs and create a custom treatment plan.

Related Posts