dental implant diagram

Patients often wonder how to decide if they should get a dental implant or use dentures to replace missing teeth. The decision depends on the personal circumstances of the patient. Here are some reasons to consider choosing dental implants.

Dental Implants Are Long-Term

Although some patients think dental implants are a new thing, they have been around since the 1960s. They have become more popular recently but have been successfully used for well over 40 years.  In fact, dental implants have been proven to last for over 40 years by the original patients! Therefore implants that are properly taken care of by brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are known to last the rest of the patient’s life.

Natural

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. Since the root is replaced as well as the tooth, the dental implant is strong. This means the patient is able to eat what they want even if it is something sticky or crunchy which is not possible with dentures. Patients report improvement in their self-esteem because they are able to speak and smile normally with the dental implant.

Easier to Maintain

Dentures have to be taken out and cleaned daily. Many patients do not enjoy the cleaning cups or messy adhesive. Dental implants are easy to care for because you just brush and floss them like the rest of your teeth. Patients find the easy care to be a huge advantage.

Preserve Bone and Teeth

Dental implants also prevent further deterioration of the mouth because they help preserve the bone and support adjacent teeth. Patients with missing teeth often find that the adjacent teeth start to tip and potentially even end up being lost as well. With a dental implant this issue is avoided.

To learn more about dental implants contact us at Sheridan Dental. We place implants for patients interested in replacing missing teeth.