Teeth endure a lot of wear and tear over time.
Sometimes this wear is due to improper or inadequate cleaning of teeth.
Other times, tooth loss can occur from excessive tobacco or alcohol use.
Still, aging can be a natural cause of tooth loss.
Other times, a sporting or other type of accident can cause accidental tooth loss.
Typically, when teeth are lost a qualified dentist will use a bridge or dentures to replace the bone with an artificial tooth.
However, more recently dentists are using dental implants for a more natural look that better replicates natural tooth function.
Dental implants use a titanium post that replicates the natural tooth root.
This post is implanted into the gum, and the gum is given time to grow around the post.
Titanium is used for its strength, and also for its ability to easily bind with natural gums and teeth.
Once the post has been properly implanted, a false tooth can be placed over the post.
These implants are much more durable than traditional bridges or crowns, and require the same maintenance as your regular teeth.
Simply brush and floss daily as you normally would.
Patients appreciate that they care for their dental implants the same way they would the rest of their teeth.
There are many reasons to take advantage of more natural looking implants.
If one or more of your teeth is missing, or you already have a partial denture, you can have an implant put in place to support the replacement of these teeth.
Chewing is often found to be easier for patients that use implants, rather than traditional bridges.
Because they are more natural looking, many patients prefer this more modern approach to dental care, as opposed to solutions that may appear false.
Many people who currently have dentures complain that they don't feel like their natural teeth.
Using dentures can also lead to irritation and gum bleeding, especially if your dentures don't fit correctly.
When you lose teeth, your gums often shrink, which can make dentures ill fitting and highly uncomfortable.
Fortunately, implants are placed inside the gum, and built to fit perfectly, so they are often much more comfortable than old-fashioned dentures.
While the cheaper alternative, dentures wind up costing a fortune in maintenance, discomfort and embarrassment.
Another reason to look into modern implants is if you have lost only one tooth due to periodontal disease, or as the result of an accident; an implant will not affect the natural teeth surrounding the area, making it more desirable for single tooth replacement.
Your dentist will be able to give you proper instruction as to the after care of your dental implant.
For the first couple of days, the area may be sore or tender, so it's important to properly clean the area, without aggravating any tender spots.
Once your implant is in place, you can enjoy a natural, brighter smile.
Ask your dentist if implants are right for you and invest in a quality, long lasting solution for your missing teeth.