How Dental Implants Can Improve Oral Health

May 25, 2023
Maestri Family Dental

Dental implants are a highly effective and increasingly popular solution for individuals suffering from tooth loss. In fact, more than 3 million people in the United States have dental implants.

While their primary function is to replace missing teeth and restore one’s smile, dental implants offer numerous additional benefits for overall oral health.

Below, we will explore the various ways in which dental implants contribute to improved oral health, including the prevention of bone loss and the elimination of pain and discomfort.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are fused to your jawbone. They serve as sturdy foundations for replacement teeth, acting as the roots that securely anchor them in place.

5 Ways Dental Implants Can Improve Oral Health

By replicating the structure and function of natural teeth, implants provide various benefits that contribute to overall oral health.

Prevent bone loss and preserve facial structure

One of the benefits of dental implants is their ability to prevent bone loss and preserve the facial natural structure.

When a tooth is missing or extracted, the underlying jawbone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root.

As a result, the bone begins to deteriorate over time, with about 25% of the bone width lost within the first year.

This leads to a decrease in the overall volume and density of the jawbone, which can cause a sunken appearance in the facial structure and contribute to premature aging.

Dental implants can help maintain the integrity of the jawbone by halting the bone loss process and even promoting new bone growth around the implant, resulting in a more youthful and natural look.

Eliminating discomfort and pain associated with missing teeth

Missing teeth can lead to a variety of discomforts, such as difficulty chewing, shifting of remaining teeth, and even chronic headaches due to TMJ-related problems.

Dental implants can restore the proper alignment and function of the teeth, allowing you to chew and speak with ease, thereby eliminating the pain and discomfort caused by a missing tooth.

In addition, unlike removable dentures or bridges, dental implants are designed to be a permanent part of your mouth. They feel and function just like your natural teeth, providing a comfortable and pain-free experience.

Reduce the risk of periodontal disease

When you have missing teeth, the hole left behind can trap food particles and create ideal hiding spots for bacteria to thrive, which can lead to gum disease.

By filling the empty socket with implants, you can prevent bacteria from accumulating as well as prevent infection. Implants also promote better oral hygiene habits, which further reduces the risk of periodontal disease.

Promote proper oral hygiene

Unlike bridges, which may require special flossing techniques as they rely on neighboring teeth for support, dental implants allow you to brush, floss, and rinse as you normally would, without any added complications.

This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and keep your mouth free from plaque buildup and bacteria.

Enhance the ability to enjoy a varied diet

If you have missing teeth, you may find yourself avoiding certain foods, such as tough fruits like pears or apples, lean meats, granola, and nuts. This can result in a limited and less nutritious diet.

Since dental implants mimic real teeth, you can eventually chew and bite into these types of foods and maintain a diverse and balanced diet, so your body can receive essential nutrients for optimal oral health.

With a successful dental implant surgery comes a multitude of oral health benefits that are just too good to pass up. They are definitely worth considering if you wish to improve your oral health and restore the functionality of your teeth.

If you are contemplating getting dental implants, we highly recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Maestri. She will assess the feasibility of the procedure and provide expert guidance.

Maestri Family Dental is your trusted destination for all your dental implant needs in Lafayette, LA. Contact us today if you have any questions regarding dental implants!