Dental implants are an effective treatment that can replace missing teeth and improve your quality of life. You’ll learn more in this article about some of the long-term benefits that these implants can offer you. At Steven C. Hewett D.D.S. in Champions Gate, FL, we are here to answer your questions and offer free initial consultations to help you decide if implants are a solution for you.
Before we discuss the long-term benefits, it helps to know what a dental implant is. Made to mimic a single tooth or multiple teeth, endosteal implants usually consist of an artificial tooth root (shaped like a screw or a blade) and a prosthetic tooth piece, usually made from a ceramic material. In contrast, a subperiosteal implant is placed on top of the jawbone using a metal frame. The fastenings protrude through the gum to hold a prosthetic implant in place.
Implant parts are made from long-lasting, strong, and biocompatible materials like titanium (metal) or zirconia (ceramic). They can endure the tremendous pressure caused by biting or chewing, and will not deteriorate like natural enamel-covered teeth from exposure to acids or other sources of tooth decay. Whether you get endosteal or subperiosteal implants, they are designed to last for a lifetime.
Compared with other dental treatments, such as unfixed dentures or bridges, implants do not need to be regularly replaced. With improved tooth, gum, and mouth health through good dental hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, you can ensure that your implants will stay in optimal shape.
Because dental implants are fixed into the jawbone, they do not require any adhesives (as some dentures do) or removal for any special cleaning. As they are made to replicate the function of a natural tooth and are made from biocompatible materials, they become a permanent part of your mouth. You will not need to waste hours removing and maintaining them.
They are also more comfortable than other treatments, as they are made to replicate the natural shape and function of your teeth. As they are securely fastened to your jawbone, there is no chance of slippage, as can be experienced when wearing ill-fitting dentures. In fact, the root component of an implant can be used to fix your dentures in place and stop unexpected and annoying slippage.
Dental implants also have a positive effect on jawbone health. Without the strength of a tooth root, the jaw is weakened and left vulnerable. Think of what happens when land is cleared of all vegetation. Without the well-developed root systems of plants, the soil will lose its structural integrity and eventually erode. A missing tooth can lead to that part of the jawbone shrinking and losing its strength.
Because implants act like natural tooth roots, they prevent bone loss. This in turn helps to maintain the natural shape of your jawline and face. And because implants are simply inserted into or on top of the jawbone, no grinding or other modifications of your natural teeth are required.
One side effect of missing teeth is the reduced ability to eat certain foods such as steak or corn on the cob. While unfixed dentures are a useful treatment, they can slip and cause discomfort to some people when eating. With implants, you will have the full range of incisors, canines, premolars, and molars you need to bite and chew food properly.
Speech can also be affected by missing teeth and be a source of great embarrassment. For example, natural teeth can crowd into the space left by a missing tooth, which can affect a person’s jaw movement and ability to articulate words. Dental implants can restore your ability to speak clearly and help you to feel confident in social situations again.
Smiling can be a source of anxiety for people with missing teeth. With dental implants, your natural smile can be restored and enhanced using cutting-edge imaging technology that helps to replicate your missing teeth. At our clinic, Dr. Hewett uses 3D imaging to help him identify the exact shape and angle that each dental implant needs to be, to fill the missing tooth or teeth space naturally.
Dr. Hewett also provides implant-supported dentures, suitable for individuals who have several teeth missing. A number of implants are inserted into the jawbone, on which you can secure your customized denture. This also helps denture wearers to feel confident when smiling, as you won’t have to worry about your denture slipping by accident.
If you’re considering whether implants are the right dental treatment for you, it is important that you choose to work with a dentist who specializes in implant dentistry. Dr. Hewett is an industry leader in implant dentistry with over three decades of experience helping patients in Central Florida and beyond regain their smiles and their confidence.
We are proud to offer comprehensive implant dentistry services and are there to guide you at every stage of the journey. Dr. Hewett can provide single and multiple tooth replacement, full mouth replacement, and dental implant failure treatment. He also offers these related implant services:
At Steven C. Hewett D.D.S., we offer all of our implant dentistry services from a state-of-the-art practice that prioritizes patient comfort. For new patients, a dedicated liaison officer can arrange a virtual consultation with you and answer your questions about implant dentistry. On meeting Dr. Hewett, you’ll learn if you are a suitable candidate for this type of dental surgery. Throughout the entire process, your health and comfort is our top priority.
Dental implants are an investment in your oral health and overall well-being that can last a lifetime. If you believe that you are an ideal candidate for dental implant surgery, it’s time to take the next step towards a healthier mouth and improved quality of life. Contact Steven C. Hewett D.D.S. in Champions Gate, FL to book your complimentary consultation.
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