Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular way to replace missing teeth. Your Mississauga, ON, dentists explain a few situations in which you may benefit from this tooth-replacement option.
Lost Tooth
Whether you lost a tooth due to an injury or tooth decay, a dental implant offers an excellent way to replace your missing tooth. The implant, which looks like a small screw, is placed in your jawbone and replaces the roots of your tooth. Dental implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that bonds to the bone in a few months. After bonding occurs, your dentist attaches a lifelike crown to the top of the implant to complete the process.
Alternative to Traditional Dentures
Dental implants are also an option if you've lost all of your upper or lower teeth. Unlike traditional full dentures that simply rest on top of your gums, implant-supported versions are attached to four or more implants per arch. In addition to anchoring your dentures, your implants also stimulate your jawbone and help prevent or reduce bone loss that frequently occurs after you lose a tooth.
Long-Lasting Option
You're probably also considering bridges or dentures to replace your missing tooth or teeth. Although these restoration options can effectively take the place of lost teeth, they usually only have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years. Depending on your age when you receive your dentures or bridges, you may need to replace them several times. If you choose dental implants, you'll probably never need to replace your implant.
Comfort
Because dental implants are firmly rooted in your mouth, they feel like your missing tooth. You'll avoid having to worry that your tooth replacement will slip or irritate your gums. Chewing is also easier with implants.
