How Can Dental Implants Improve Your Quality of Life?

Did you know that the average American adult loses at least one permanent tooth at some point in their lifetime? Unfortunately, leaving a missing tooth untreated can lead to serious oral health issues, such as gum disease, jawbone deterioration, and further tooth loss. Luckily, skilled and experienced dental professionals use dental implants in Solana to replace missing teeth and prevent these problems.  

A dental implant is a biocompatible metal, screwlike post that the dentist surgically inserts in the jawbone. This restorative solution provides a healthy tooth replacement option for adults of all ages. Dental implants may be right for you if you’re not a smoker, have one or multiple missing teeth, a fully grown jawbone, adequate bone to secure the implants, healthy oral tissues, are unwilling or unable to wear dentures, and don’t have existing medical conditions that may affect bone healing.

Dental Implants and Their Impact on Your Quality of Life

They Preserve Bone Health

The natural teeth have roots embedded in your jawbone. Moreover, tooth roots stimulate bone growth via biting and chewing. When tooth loss occurs due to tooth extractions, gum disease, trauma, or injury, the bone no longer gets the stimulation it needs to maintain its mass and density. In response to the lack of stimulation, the body breaks down the bone tissue, causing jawbone deterioration. 

If left untreated, missing teeth will cause you to lose 25% of the surrounding bone within the first year following a tooth extraction. It’s important to note that the bone wears away over time. Since dental implants act as tooth roots, stimulating bone growth and preventing bone resorption. 

They Prevent Further Tooth Loss

As mentioned, your jawbone can deteriorate after a tooth extraction if you fail to replace the missing tooth. Without dental implants supporting nearby teeth, your existing teeth won’t have something to lean on. Consequently, they’re more likely to shift out of their correct positions and become loose until they eventually fall out.  

After the dentist surgically implants the metal posts into the jawbone beneath the gumline, it bonds naturally with the bone. Furthermore, they’ll attach custom-made artificial teeth called crowns to replace the missing teeth permanently. 

They Reduce Your Risk for Gum Disease

Did you know that a missing tooth can cause gum recession? As the gums recede, they create an open pocket that collects plaque and bacteria. Without treatment, these gum pockets can lead to gum disease. Studies show that gum disease increases the risk of various health conditions, such as heart disease, pregnancy complications, Type 2 diabetes, infertility, lung infections, and Alzheimer’s disease.  

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed. When gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. Over time, the jawbone loses its volume, leading to further tooth loss. 

They Help You Eat a Balanced Diet

A missing tooth can make chewing fruits, vegetables, meats, and other nutrient-dense foods challenging. As a result, people with missing teeth usually replace these dietary staples with soft, processed food. Unfortunately, these dietary changes often lead to weight gain, cardiovascular issues, and diabetes. Since dental implants restore chewing power, they make it easier for you to eat nutritious foods and maintain a balanced diet.

Learn More About Dental Implant in Solana!

At Inspire Smiles, we’re committed to providing our patients with exceptional dental care. If you want to experience top-quality dentistry in a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, contact us today to make an appointment.