Until recently, there weren’t so many options available for tooth replacement if you had lost a permanent tooth. Bridges and dentures are the traditional methods of restoring your smile to its’ optimal appearance, but they require a lot of maintenance and aren’t as functional as natural teeth.
Dental implants are a durable, modern solution for tooth loss that restores the feel and function of natural teeth while also promoting the health of your gums, jawbone and remaining teeth. Dr. Byron C. Desbordes is a leading implant and cosmetic dentist in Baltimore, MD who has many years of experience helping patients restore their smile and confidence.
1. Implants last a lifetime
Because they are surgically implanted in the jawbone, dental implants can last for decades with proper care. The crown — the false tooth — may need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear, but the implant screw embedded into the jaw lasts many years. Make sure to visit your dentist regularly to have your implant inspected for proper functioning.
2. Dental implants keep your jawbone healthy
Although replacing missing teeth may seem like “just” a cosmetic concern, it’s really not Leaving a gap in the jawbone where you have lost a tooth can actually cause the bone tissue to recede. This could potentially risk your neighboring teeth and the jawbone structure itself, and could even lead to a sunken appearance to the face or more complicated dental problems.
Dental implants serve as the root of the missing tooth, which keeps the surrounding tissues in the right place. This keeps your surrounding teeth healthy while preserving the health and structure of your jawbone.
3. Implants protect healthy teeth
In addition to keeping the jawbone healthy, dental implants help the teeth surrounding the missing tooth. Dental bridges, which are an older method of tooth replacement, involve grinding the surrounding teeth to serve as an anchor for the bridge. Implants are placed directly in the gap and do not need to be anchored by other teeth. This means that the only teeth that are affected are the ones that need to be replaced.
4. Implants feel and function like natural teeth
With dental implants you can eat and clean your teeth exactly as you would your own natural teeth. Other tooth replacement options such as bridges and removable dentures require specialized cleaning and are less comfortable than implants. Dental implants never need to be removed and you may even forget you have them after awhile.
Dental Implants in Baltimore, MD
Implants are a long-term investment in your dental health. Dr. Desbordes’ practice in Baltimore is focused on the long term care of a comfortable, functional smile that provides you with confidence and the best possible quality of life. Call (410) 216-4023 or go online to schedule your appointment and begin restoring your smile and boosting your confidence today.