Did you know that many experts consider dental implants to be the gold standard for replacing missing teeth? These restorations are the only ones placed in your jawbone, providing added strength, security, and other advantages over alternative solutions like dentures or bridges.
Although this treatment continues to gain popularity as a reliable way to rebuild your smile, it’s important to be well-informed about the procedure before moving forward. With that in mind, read on to learn 3 interesting things about dental implants you might not have been aware of!
Fact #1: They Don’t Develop Cavities
Dental implants typically contain a support rod that’s carefully placed in your jawbone. Once your mouth has mended sufficiently, your dentist will attach a dental crown, or other appropriate restoration, that’s been customized to resemble your natural enamel for seamless results.
However, unlike the teeth you were born with, your implants don’t develop decay. But that doesn’t mean you don’t need to maintain your dental health anymore. Your remaining teeth and gums are still prone to disease and damage that can spread to the tissues surrounding your prosthetic and weaken them. This can cause your new tooth to become destabilized or dislodged, but it can thankfully be avoided with a twice-daily dental hygiene routine. You should thoroughly brush and floss both morning and night to remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to many common oral concerns.
Fact #2: They’re Made from Missile Materials
Dental implants are renowned for being resilient and long-lasting. For example, they’re less likely than dentures or bridges to slip out of place, so they tend to sustain less harm. Plus, they’re made from materials that are so durable that they often last 20+ years if cared for correctly.
But many patients are surprised to learn that dental implants often include a support rod made from titanium, the same material chosen by NASA for building space shuttles and missiles. This metal resists corrosion and has an exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio, making it incredibly durable and lightweight. These traits make it ideal for launching craft into space as well as anchoring your artificial tooth.
Fact #3: They’re Almost as Strong as Natural Teeth
Your dentist typically does everything in their power to protect and preserve your natural teeth because that’s usually best for your overall dental health. But if you’ve already lost an adult tooth and need to replace it, dental implants look and function more like natural teeth than the alternatives.
For instance, once they fuse with your jawbone, you can enjoy up to 80% or more of your original bite force. Plus, the rod placed in your jaw stimulates the bone to keep it active and healthy, which preserves your facial structure and helps prevent additional tooth loss.
If you have additional questions about dental implants, your dentist can provide accurate information based on your unique circumstances during your consultation!
Meet the Author
Dr. Shabnam Tehrani is passionate about providing patients in Lutz with a VIP dental experience each time they visit. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and today, she offers a variety of services to help enhance your smile. She partners with local experts to ensure accurate dental implant placement, then provides a resilient, lifelike restoration customized to resemble your natural teeth. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (813) 751-3044.