Living with one or more missing teeth is possible, but this change in your smile will affect you in different ways. Not only will missing teeth negatively change your appearance, but they can also reduce your ability to eat and speak properly. Fortunately, implant dentistry is an option to consider if you want to restore your smile. Here are a few signs dental implants are the right restoration option for you.

Fully-Functional Smile

If you are considering dentures, as opposed to dental implants, you may need to change a few eating habits and behaviors. For example, removing your dentures would be necessary before eating certain foods and brushing your teeth.

With dental implants, you can enjoy eating the same foods as always because the implants will become permanent parts of your smile.

Placing implants is actually a surgical procedure. Your dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue, allowing the implant to implant osseointegrate into the actual jaw bone over a period of time. Although this period can take up to 8 weeks, the fusion of the implant to the bone ensures your implants restore your smile in a permanent and fully-functional manner.

Realistic, Natural Smile

Your smile should not only function properly – it should also appear realistic and natural. Unfortunately, certain restorative methods do not appear as natural as possible.

For example, dentures and bridges can loosen over time, shifting inside your mouth, affecting your appearance. Dental implants become permanent parts of the smile, so they do not move in your mouth when eating or chewing. In addition, the artificial teeth, or crowns that top the actual implant is designed to match your existing, natural teeth.

If you want to replace missing teeth in a way that also looks like a realistic part of your smile, dental implants are a great option to consider.

Easy-to-Maintain Smile

Finally, you probably want to restore your smile without the worry of constant maintenance or replacements. Unlike dentures and bridges that do require ongoing adjustments, soaking, cleaning, and even replacements, dental implants offer a restorative option that is truly easy to maintain.

Once you receive the implants, you should continue brushing and flossing as usual. Regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and exams are also important for reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.

Help is available if you are confused by which method of smile restoration is right for you. If you want a fully-functional smile that is realistic and easy to maintain, implant dentistry may be suited to you. Contact a prosthodontist for more help.