Tooth loss is more common than you think. Over two-thirds of adults have lost at least one of their permanent teeth. More than one-quarter of adults over 65 are dealing with severe tooth loss, meaning they have fewer than eight teeth.
Dental implants permanently solve tooth loss, whether you're missing one or several teeth. They're a cost-effective, long-lasting and reliable tooth replacement treatment. Dental implants give you a natural-looking smile that will last a lifetime.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are posts a dentist places into your jawbone to replace a severely damaged tooth root. After the implant has a chance to fuse to the bone, a crown is placed on top of it. The crown looks and feels like your natural tooth.
You can eat, chew and speak as usual with a dental implant. The implants don't require special care or treatment. You can brush and floss them like your natural teeth.
What Makes Dental Implants so Popular?
Implants have become one of the most popular options for tooth replacement, and for good reason. More than half a million people get dental implants each year. Some of the reasons implants are a popular pick include:
- They're long-lasting: The titanium posts placed in your jawbone naturally fuse to the bone through osseointegration. The process strengthens the bone and provides a long-lasting root for the crown. With the right care, implants can last for the rest of your life.
- They're cost-effective: Implant may have a higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement options, but they often cost less in the long run, since you don't need to replace them every decade or so.
- They look natural: The crown on your implant looks like a healthy tooth. It can be shaded to match the rest of your teeth and shaped to fit your smile. You'll end up with a beautiful, healthy smile thanks to implants.
- They improve oral health: A dental implant can't decay, which can help to improve your overall oral health. You'll need to brush your teeth and floss daily, but you're likely to find that it's easier to maintain your oral hygiene with implants than with dentures or even your natural teeth.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on several factors. The number of implants you need will affect the overall cost. While the price might seem high, remember that you'll only need to undergo implant treatment once, meaning they often cost less in the long run than dentures or other options.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
A few of the ongoing benefits of dental implants include:
- Stability and strength. They act like your natural teeth.
- Beauty. They make your smile look great.
- Durability. Implants can last a lifetime.
- Improved quality of life. You can eat what you want and don't have to worry about misplacing your implants.
- Protects neighboring teeth. You don't have to remove or alter the surrounding teeth when getting implants.
- Protects your jawbone. Thanks to your implants, you won't experience bone loss.
Myths About Dental Implants
Despite their popularity, some myths abound about dental implants. Let's separate fact from fiction.
- Myth: You're too old for implants: People of all ages can benefit from dental implants. If you're tired of living with dentures, talk to your dentist about a more permanent tooth replacement option.
- Myth: Implants hurt: Implants can increase your mouth's comfort. You'll receive anesthesia or sedation during the treatment and won't feel a thing.
- Myth: Any dentist can provide implants: Choosing the right dentist is the key to your success with implants. Your dentist should have experience and training with dental implants.
Dental Implants Erie Pennsylvania
Learn more about dental implants and how Erie Dental can help you feel confident and comfortable with your smile.
