Losing a permanent tooth doesn’t mean a lifetime of having a gap in your smile. Dental implants provide a long-lasting, natural solution for tooth loss that preserves your oral health while retaining full functionality of your smile. Dr. Robert Cain is an experienced implant dentist in Knoxville with advanced training in dental implant placement to restore your smile. Learn these 4 things to know when you are considering whether dental implants are right for you.
1. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime
Because they are surgically implanted in the jawbone, dental implants can last for the rest of your life with proper care. The false tooth attached to the implant, called the crown, may need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear, but the piece inserted into the jaw lasts many years. Make sure you visit your dentist for regular check-ups to make sure your implant is still functioning correctly.
2. Dental implants preserve jawbone health
While replacing missing teeth may seem like only a cosmetic concern, having a gap in the jawbone can actually cause the bone to recede. This could potentially risk the neighboring teeth or the jawbone structure itself, and could cause a sunken appearance to the face or more complicated dental problems.
Dental implants serve as the root of the missing tooth, which keeps the surrounding tissues in the right place. This keeps your surrounding teeth healthy while preserving the health and structure of your jawbone.
3. Implants protect the surrounding natural teeth
In addition to keeping the jawbone healthy, dental implants help the teeth surrounding the missing tooth. Dental bridges, which are an older method of tooth replacement, involve grinding the surrounding teeth to serve as an anchor for the bridge. Implants are placed directly in the gap and do not need to be anchored by other teeth. This means that the only teeth that are affected are the ones that need to be replaced.
4. Most people forget they have implants
Dental implants allow you to eat and brush your teeth just as you would with your natural teeth. Other tooth replacement options such as bridges and removable dentures require specialized cleaning and are less comfortable than implants. Unlike bridges, dental implants can be cleaned just like your natural teeth and do not require any additional care. Many patients forget they have implants!
Dental Implants in Knoxville, TN
Implants are a long-term investment in your oral health. Dr. Cain is focused on the long term maintenance of a comfortable, functional smile that provides confidence and the best possible quality of life. Schedule your consultation online to start restoring your smile and confidence today.
