A missing tooth can affect more than just your smile. It can make people feel self-conscious and can even affect mental health. Not only that, but missing teeth can impact on dental health too, causing weakening of the remaining teeth, problems with chewing and bone loss.
That’s why, if you’re missing a tooth or you need to have one extracted, it’s something that should be tackled sooner rather than later.
As a long-lasting solution to replace missing teeth, dental implants are increasing in popularity, with many people recognising the benefits of dental implants over more traditional options such as bridges or dentures. In fact, the global dental implants market size is projected to reach 6.34 billion US dollars by 2029.
However, the fact remains that for many, dental implants are a significant investment in time and money, so it’s not a decision that can be taken lightly.
If you’re wondering are dental implants worth it, here we look at five benefits of dental implants to help you decide if they’re the right treatment for you.
They’re long-lasting
As we’ve just touched on, dental implants aren’t the cheapest treatment. An implant and single crown placed by an experienced dental implant specialist will cost you around £2600.
However, dental implants are durable and long-lasting, making them more cost-effective in the long-term. With the right treatment and aftercare, you can expect your impact to last for years, with studies showing 94% of implants still functioning after a decade.
They give you a natural smile
A smile can bond us together. But if you feel self-conscious when you smile or laugh, it can take that connection with other people away from you.
Dental implants are as close to the natural teeth as it’s possible to get. The crown that attaches to the implant will be the same shape and colour as your natural teeth so it will blend in seamlessly, leaving you to feel totally confident in your interactions with others.
You can eat and drink as normal
Whether you’re partial to a steak or love the texture of a crunchy apple, no food or drink is off limits with dental implants.
If you currently have dentures, you’ll know you have to be careful with what you eat and drink, but because dental implants are held securely in place in your jawbone, you can eat and drink as normal.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that your implant isn’t indestructible, and you should still take care when eating harder foods and limit your consumption of chewy sweets and toffee.
They prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure
Just as the major bones in our body need physical exercise to keep them strong, the jawbone is no different. Our teeth’s regular chewing and biting motions help stimulate the jawbone and maintain its density.
If you’re missing a tooth however, the lack of stimulation can weaken the bone and it can begin to recede. Over time, this can impact on your facial structure and cause your jawbone to lose strength and function.
One of the benefits of dental implants is that they replace the natural tooth root, so they provide the same stimulating function of natural teeth, helping to prevent bone loss and maintain your natural facial structure.
They’re more comfortable and secure than bridges or dentures
Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. They don’t have to be removed and you won’t have to worry about them falling out or coming loose when you’re eating or talking.
Dental implants become part of you. They’re custom-made to fit the missing gap and the shape of your face perfectly, so they won’t rub or feel uncomfortable like bridges or dentures can.
Not only that, but you care for them just like your natural teeth. Simply brush twice a day and then clean in between with floss or an interdental brush.
So, is it worth getting dental implants?
So that’s the benefits of dental implants covered and you might be interested in finding out more. However, there are a few things to bear in mind if you're thinking about taking the next step.
Placing dental implants involves a great level of surgical and clinical skill. That’s why it’s important that the person who undertakes it has the appropriate qualifications and experience. Dr Gahan is highly experienced, having been placing implants for over 18 years. He is also registered with the GDC as a Restorative Dentistry specialist.
You’ll also need to consider recovery time. This includes time needed for the implant to fuse with the bone before the crown is fitted, and additional time if you require a bone graft before implantation. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the timeframe as it will be unique to your own case, but it’s helpful to be aware that this isn’t a quick fix; it’s a specialised treatment that achieves a long-lasting quality result.
If you’re looking for dental implants in Selby, Sherburn, Leeds or the surrounding areas, Dr Gahan sees private patients at Finkle Hill Dental Care. You can book a consultation with him by calling 01977 682 200 or email hello@finklehilldental.co.uk.