If you’ve lost a tooth or multiple teeth, it can actually limit your ability to chew certain foods. Furthermore, some tooth replacements restore more chewing function than others, so this may be a consideration when you are choosing a treatment approach. In general, dental implants allow the patient to continue to enjoy the most normal diet.
Dental implants are unique among tooth replacement techniques because they consist of a root-like structure in addition to a crown. The dental implant is a titanium cylinder, and after it is placed in the jaw, the bone tissue at the site forms a strong bond with it over the course of several months. Ultimately, the dental implant becomes a fixture in the jaw.
In contrast, alternatives like standard fixed dental bridges and conventional dentures only replace the absent crown. However, the tooth’s root allows the tooth to withstand fairly strong forces needed to process fibrous foods, like nutritious fresh fruits and veggies. A patient who chooses a conventional tooth replacement might need to eliminate such foods from their diet due to chewing concerns.
Of course, in order to gain this benefit from dental implants, patients must be diligent about oral hygiene maintenance, as advanced gum disease can compromise the bone and cause dental implant failure. Be sure to follow all directions pertaining to brushing and flossing your teeth, along with any other recommended oral hygiene habits in order to maximize the longevity of your dental implants.
Dental implants can be used in a range of tooth loss scenarios. They can support a single crown, a dental bridge or even a complete denture. Therefore, many patients may be good candidates for dental implants.
Tooth loss doesn’t mean that patients automatically have to cut out many of their favorite foods. Dental implants offer a treatment solution that allows patients to continue to enjoy a varied diet. To learn more about this option, come to our office for an initial consultation.
