Dental Implant Facts You Need to Know
Dental implants are one of the most remarkable advances in dentistry today. Patients and dentists alike appreciate these implants for their ability to provide long-lasting functionality, while still maintaining that natural appearance so important to aesthetic beauty. Most people, however, have very little knowledge about this important dental solution, and that lack of awareness can cause some patients to miss out on the benefits that an implant procedure can provide. Here are some of the most important facts that you should know about these prosthetic wonders.
Dental Implants Have a Track Record of Success
The most important thing to know is that dental implants have proven more successful than any other solution used for replacing teeth. They look just like your natural teeth, and are much more successful than crowns, bridges, and dentures in not impacting speech or the patient’s ability to eat and drink normally. According to most estimates, this procedure’s success rate is around 98%!
Implants Last a Lifetime
Crowns, dentures, and bridges all have limited usefulness that ranges from five to ten years. That means that they need to be replaced at some point in time – which can be both expensive and inconvenient. Implants, on the other hand, are designed to last for a lifetime. They’re made of titanium – the same material used in spacecraft, mind you – so there is no risk that they’ll simply wear out over time.
Implants are Not Subject to Decay…
That titanium does not decay like your natural tooth, so you never have to worry about your implants getting a cavity or wasting away. The implant itself is impervious to that sort of harm.
… But They Still Need to Be Cared For
At the same time, however, the fact that your implants cannot decay does not mean that plaque build-up on those titanium wonders won’t lead to other complications. If you don’t follow your oral hygiene guidelines, you could end up with infection around the implant that leaves it looser than it should be.
Dental Implants Don’t Weaken Your Jaw Structure
Dentures and bridges can cause your jawbone to weaken, due to the fact that they do not actually fuse with your bone structure. Titanium does fuse with the jawbone, which stimulates bone growth and strengthens your jaw.
Age is Not a Factor!
Some people who might benefit from implants never consider them because they assume that the procedure is only used for patients within a certain age range. The good news is that any patient whose teeth have reached a state of maturity can receive the benefits of dental implants. Your dentist can determine whether or not you would make a good candidate for the procedure.
At Ebenezer Dental, we pride ourselves on providing all our patients with the best counsel and treatment strategies available today. Our experience and expertise with dental implants can ensure that your dental plan is designed with your unique needs in mind. Contact us today to find out how the best dentist in Midtown Manhattan can help you get the dental implants you need to protect your oral health and preserve that perfect smile.