Dental implants are a wonder of modern dentistry. They mimic teeth in both form and function, allowing them to restore a smile to its original appearance and biting ability after tooth loss. While they are considered the pinnacle of tooth replacement, there are a few common misconceptions floating around about them. Here are a few little-known facts about dental implants to help people make informed decisions about them.
Dental Implants Can’t Get Cavities
Dental implants are made from titanium and porcelain, which makes them immune to cavities and tooth decay. However, it is still important to maintain excellent oral hygiene practices after receiving them. While your implants won’t be able to get tooth decay, the remaining natural teeth still can. Tooth decay can spread from one tooth to another, meaning that poor oral hygiene can still lead to oral infections and further tooth loss. Dental implants need healthy gums in order to be successful, and gum disease can cause an implant to become infected or rejected.
Dental Implants Have an Incredibly High Success Rate
A whopping 95% of all dental implants placed are successfully integrated into the body, and this rate can be expected to increase as technology continues to advance. Dental implants require healthy gums in order to be successful, and one of the most common reasons for dental implant failure is smoking. Smoking causes the blood vessels in the gums to constrict, making it harder for them to heal and fight infection, and it can cause the gums to recede over time.
Dental Implants Have Significant Health Benefits
Once dental implants are placed, they can provide more than 70% of the patient’s chewing ability, which is a remarkable difference from the 30% that can be restored by dentures. This allows dental implant patients to enjoy a wide variety of foods so they can get optimal nutrition. A complete set of teeth can also give a patient the confidence to smile liberally, which can open up all sorts of social and professional opportunities for them.
Dental implants can be an amazing step forward for your dental and overall health. Consulting with a dentist can help determine if you are a good candidate for them.
About the Author
Dr. Stacy Goodwill earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry before completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry post-graduate program in the Navy. She is a Fellow in the International Dental Implant Association and a member of the American Dental Association and the North Dakota Dental Association. Her office in Fargo, ND offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. For more information on what dental implants can do for you, contact her office online or dial (701) 237-3583.