More than 500,000 Americans every year are choosing to replace their lost teeth with dental implants. The revolutionary treatment is the only method to mimic both the tooth root and the crown. As a result, dental implants provide the next best thing to your real teeth. Although they offer exceptional benefits, it’s not a good idea to replace healthy teeth with dental implants. However, it may be recommended for certain situations. Here’s when it’s best to extract healthy teeth.
Natural Teeth Are the Best
Dental implants are pretty amazing, but nothing is equal to your natural teeth. Every tooth is important for a healthy, functional smile. Your dentist will always strive to preserve every tooth. However, there are times when extractions may be best.
If you only have a couple of healthy teeth remaining, it might make more sense to have them removed to make room for implant dentures. Only a dentist can determine if replacing healthy teeth with dental implants is the right choice for you.
How a Dental Implant Works
If your dentist recommends replacing teeth with dental implants, you’ll benefit from a close second to your natural smile. A dental implant is unique because it mimics the entire tooth structure.
A titanium implant post serves as a new tooth root. Your bone must fuse to it through a process called osseointegration. After your bone has healed, a special fixture is placed on the implant to connect your restoration.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most reliable method of treating missing teeth. They offer exceptional benefits, including:
- Look and Feel Natural: Your restoration will have the support of your jawbone to feel like a real tooth. With the implant post hidden below your gums and your restoration customized to match your natural teeth, only a trained dental professional will know your tooth isn’t real.
- High Success Rate: Dental implants have over a 95% success rate.
- Jawbone Preservation: Missing teeth cause your jawbone to shrink slowly, which can change the shape of your face. A dental implant is the only treatment to offer jawbone preservation because it mimics a tooth root.
- Long-Lasting Results: Dental implants are proven to last for 30 years or longer with the correct care, like brushing and flossing. Your new smile can last for a lifetime, so you’ll never have to budget for replacements.
- Better Oral Health: Dental implants can reduce your risk of common issues associated with tooth loss to improve your oral health and functions.
Once you lose a tooth, it is gone for good. Removing healthy teeth isn’t a decision your dentist will make lightly. Rest assured, they’ll help you make the best choice for your smile.
About Dr. Kolade Akinwande
Dr. Akinwande achieved her dental degree at the Howard University College of Dentistry and has completed advanced training in dental implants and sedation dentistry. She is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (240) 788-2566.