If you are missing teeth, getting them replaced is the first step to eating all your favorite foods and feeling fully confident in your smile once again. Dental implants are the best replacement option available – but many people still don’t know too much about how they actually work. Keep reading for 5 little-known dental implant facts!
#1: Dental Implants Are Cavity-Proof
The replacement teeth that go on top of dental implants offer one excellent benefit in addition to restoring your smile – they cannot get cavities! You will still need to brush and floss regularly to protect any remaining teeth and to prevent gum disease, but that’s one less worry you will have once you get dental implants.
#2: Dental Implants Can Be Expected to Last a Lifetime
Unlike dentures or crowns and bridges, which may need to be replaced or refitted multiple times as the years pass, dental implants often last the wearer’s lifetime. That’s because they actually promote oral health by fusing together with the jawbone, keeping it healthy, whole, and helping you enjoy a sturdy and natural-looking tooth replacement for years and years to come.
#3: You Will Have to Watch What You Eat (At First)
Once dental implants heal, you can eat your favorite foods with abandon – but in the first six months, while they are still healing together with the jaw, the implants will not be able to support excessive chewing force. Your doctor will advise you to avoid eating anything hard, crunchy, or chewy for the first several months – follow these directions to help your dental implants heal perfectly and you will be chowing down on your favorite foods before you know it.
#4: Dental Implants Have a 95% Success Rate
In eligible candidates, dental implants are over 95% successful. That’s one of the highest success rates of any oral procedure! That means when you choose dental implants and work with a qualified oral surgeon, you can feel very confident that your investment will pay off.
#5: Dental Implants Can Be Relatively Inexpensive
Because they last a lifetime without the need for replacement, dental implants often end up being a better financial choice than dentures, which will require periodic refitting and/or replacement. Plus patients with dental insurance coverage can benefit from additional discounts.
Now that you know these 5 great things about dental implants, it’s time to find out whether or not you are a candidate for this tooth replacement option! Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your dentist to get started.
Meet the Oral Surgeons
Dr. Sterk and Dr. Gutierrez work together to lead their surgical team providing top-tier service for New Mexico. Both doctors are originally from Albuquerque and are proud to serve their hometown with excellent care, including dental implantation. To learn more about dental implants, including whether or not you are a candidate, contact the Nob Hill Oral & Facial Surgery of Albuquerque office at (505) 881-7373.