Loss of teeth is a serious issue affecting the appearance, health, comfort & confidence of a person. Teeth loss might occur due to poor gum health, trauma, broken or decayed teeth. For ages the solution to this problem has been the bridges or dentures. However, in past few years dental implants have revolutionized the concept of teeth replacement.
Dental implants have emerged as an effective long-term solution for missing teeth, failing teeth or in patients with chronic dental problems.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are metal posts or screws that are surgically placed within the jawbone. These then act as a foundation over which artificial teeth can be placed resembling the lost natural teeth.
Dental implants have several advantages over bridges & dentures which can make a difference in patients life like:
- Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth which are fixed and need not be removed.
- Easier eating: Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
- Improved self-esteem: Dental implants retain the natural face shape and smile. Unlike poor or ill-fitting dentures which can cause mumbling or slurring of words, dental implants are fixed and can provide a more confident speech and appearance.
- Maintain health of natural teeth: Dental implants don't require reducing healthy natural teeth, required by a tooth-supported bridge. Thus, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
- Durability: Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
- Convenience: Unlike dentures, dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing them at night or cleaning.
Dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or a full upper and/or lower set of teeth. Patients requiring a full arch, may be a perfect candidate for the “All-on-four treatment” i.e. four implants and then attach a full arch of teeth, giving the procedure its name (all teeth, only four implants).
Now's the time to say goodbye to the ill-fitting dentures!!
