How Dentists Can Restore Your Teeth Using Dental Implants

May 25, 2022

Year 2,000 BCE. Someone loses a tooth in a landmass what we call today China. Not a big deal, right? But what happened next was a big deal indeed. A dentist or a few dentists (only time knows!) came up with a scintillating idea of using a bamboo peg in place of a missing tooth.
Fast forward to 500 BCE. The Etruscans craft a fake tooth using oxen bones to replace a missing one.
Time does what it does. It flies.
The Phoenicians, Mayans, and Hondurans, one after another, invent their version of dental implants at different times in the history.
Today, the US witnesses at least 3 million dental implants every year. Implants are now a permanent solution to replacing missing teeth and provide you with a great smile. Our ancestors’ collective knowledge has been instrumental in restoring millions’ smile today. This post will tell how dentists in San Diego can replace your teeth and smile and the five great advantages of dental implants.

1) Dental Implants Mimic Natural Teeth's Functionalities

Dental implants are mostly made using titanium and other materials that closely resemble the properties of natural teeth. When implanted into the jawbone, they fuse with the bone, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants do not need to be anchored to other teeth, and they are not as likely to slip or move around in the mouth. Over time, it also integrates with the bone, making it strong and stable. As a result, they behave like natural teeth, allowing you to chew without discomfort.
Unlike dentures, which can be uncomfortable and alien, implants are anchored in the jawbone and behave like natural teeth. To put it simply, they just become part and parcel of your mouth. They are strong and can last for several years with proper care. Implants also allow people to eat whatever they want without worrying.

A set of dental icons on a blue background.

2) They Last for Years

Dental implants have many features that set them apart from other dental appliances. One of the biggest advantages is that they last for many years. Unlike dentures, which tend to move around, implants are firmly fixed in the jawbone and are not affected by changes in the mouth, such as shrinking gums. This means that they provide a stable foundation for prosthetic teeth and do not need to be replaced often.
Keep in mind that dental implants are strong but not immortal. To keep it intact for years, there are certain things one must follow.
They include:
• Brush and floss your teeth regularly • Visit your San Diego dentist's office for periodical checkups and cleanings • If you happen to see any signs of infection or inflammation around your implant, please contact your dentist immediately

3) They are Bio-compatible

Dental implants are biocompatible, meaning that your body will accept them as if they were your teeth. This is because they are made of titanium (mostly), which is bio-compatible and does not harm living tissue. This makes them an excellent pick for people with allergies to other materials.
Titanium is a material that is generally well-tolerated by people with allergies. In fact, dentists often recommend titanium implants for people with allergies to other materials, such as gold or silver.

4) They Make You Look Younger

Professional dental implants are a smart way to make you look younger. They fill in the gaps where your teeth used to be. This makes your face look more symmetrical, taking years off your appearance.
To drive this point home, let's see this in detail.
When the teeth are not straight, it causes the facial muscles to contract, leading to wrinkles and lines. Symmetrical teeth can also make one's smile appear brighter and more inviting.
According to various studies, symmetrical teeth can make one look up to 10 years younger. When teeth are properly aligned, it creates a more youthful appearance. This is because alignment translates into a more pleasing symmetry to the face. In addition, it can also help with problems such as Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, headaches, and even neck pain.

5) They Improve Your Social Life

Epidemiological studies say at least 40 million Americans miss all of their teeth. And around 178 million miss at least one tooth. Missing teeth can have a significant impact on one's social life. People who lost their teeth may be less likely to smile, appearing unapproachable or unfriendly. They may also have difficulty speaking clearly, making it difficult to communicate with others. The condition can also cause people to feel self-conscious and embarrassed, leading to social isolation. Dental implants give you a natural-looking smile that makes you feel more confident and sociable.

How to choose the right dental implant for you:

While pondering dental implants to replace missing teeth, it is important to understand the following factors.
• Firstly, the type of implant you choose will depend on your jawbone and teeth's condition. • Secondly, the size and shape of your implant will be determined by your pre-existing dentition. • Thirdly, the cost of dental implants will vary depending on their type and manufacturer. Your dentist will decide whether you want an all-metal or a bio-compatible implant.

Seven Questions to Ask Your Dentist:

• What type of implant am I receiving? • What is the most common type of implant used, and is it right for me? • How well does the implant withstand wear and tear? • When will the surgery take place? • What are the risks involved with dental implant surgery? • Are there any restrictions on what activities I can do? • How should I prepare myself for dental implant surgery?

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