The Priceless Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

For many people, tooth replacement is likely to be up there with some of the biggest undertakings they’ll ever make in their lives. After all, it’s a big deal opting to have a new restoration fitted, that will serve you every moment of every day, both functionally and aesthetically, and (hopefully), for many years.

Even when we’re not eating and talking, our teeth are doing some subtle, yet heavy lifting for our wellbeing. They help us make facial expressions. They help keep our facial structure intact by stimulating the jawbone. They aid with controlling airflow that comes from the mouth.

If you’re going to replace missing teeth, we can’t recommend dental implants enough.

Not only do so many of our patients tell us ‘I wish I’d chosen implant sooner’, but they also concur that implants are a significant cut above dentures and bridges, especially when it comes to chewing and restoring the appearance of a natural smile.

As well as treating a number of patients who have newly lost their teeth, we can upgrade restorations like dentures and bridges to implant-supported versions, transforming what these restorations can do in the long term.

Going Ahead With Dental Implants – Is It Worth It?

The short answer to this is absolutely, yes.

If you need persuading to book your dental implant consultation to replace missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures and bridges, this blog is the guide to help you decide… (that’s the last of the rhyming – it’s dentistry we do best)!

#1 Reclaim Your Identity

Losing a tooth can leave you feeling like you’ve lost a bit of your identity. This is especially true if it’s a tooth that’s super visible when you smile. And, it’s not just that your smile will look unsymmetrical. Losing teeth can:

• Change your speech – changes in speech can make presentations at work, social interactions with others, dates, and disciplining your kids a challenge (or render these actions more of a challenge than they already are!)
• Alter your facial anatomy – tooth loss equates to jawbone loss. This is because your jawbone relies on teeth to stimulate it, and vice versa. Loss of facial volume as a result of lost tooth and bone ages the face dramatically.
• Force you to change your diet – much of our identity is entwined by what we choose to eat (especially foodies like us here at Meliora Dental!) Gaps in your teeth can force you to drop tougher foods that are challenging to break down (think steak and breads like bagels and baguettes) from your diet.

Dental Implants Solve The Problem By:

• Implants are placed directly into the jawbone, supporting the structures of the face. This means you won’t suffer with hollow cheekbones and a triangular jaw and chin as a result of tooth loss or wearing non-implant-supported dentures and bridges.
• Implants are stable within the jaw, giving you freedom to consume foods with a variety of textures – nothing will be off the menu.

#2 They’re A Long-Term Solution

Whilst dentures and bridges are relatively long-term, they don’t provide the same level of stability for as long as implant-supported restorations do.

Here at Meliora Dental, we see many patients who retain implants for their entire lives. It is likely that you will need restorations like dentures, bridges and crowns replaced roughly every 15-20 years. However, the implants themselves can last for in excess of 25 years.

Dental Implants Are Long-lasting Because:

• They are placed into the jaw and integrate with it (unlike conventional dentures and bridges).
• They are made of titanium (a strong material known for its durable biocompatibility). Titanium is also highly fracture resistant.

#3 You Don’t Have To Deal With Runaway Dentures

Runaway dentures can be a source of embarrassment, particularly if your dentures decide to make a quick getaway whilst you’re eating or laughing in public.

Implants secure your new set of bespoke dentures, so they won’t go rogue when you’re simply trying to enjoy everyday moments in life.

Dental Implants Stay Still in Your Mouth Because:

• They are surgically placed into the jaw, within a socket. This mode of placement allows the jawbone to grow around it. Unlike dentures and bridges, they don’t depend on the power of suction, or the support of other teeth, to stay in place. Dentures and bridges are screwed in over the top of implants, and the former are easily removable for cleaning (bridges are fixed and can only be removed by a dentist). Implants mimicking of natural tooth placement equates to a pretty amazing level of stability (which patients often can’t thank us enough for!)

Dental Implants – Leeds Dental Practice Meliora Dental Have You Covered

If you’re seeking a private dentist, Leeds has many options for replacing missing teeth. However, make sure you choose a reputable private dentist with experience in implant placement. Implants provide the best antidote to tooth loss, securing dentures, bridge, and crowns in a steady position conducive to eating and talking with ease.

Dr Kunal Rai has advanced qualifications in implant placement, passing his MSc with distinction in this field. He is fully understanding of the commitment made by patients when they choose to replace missing teeth, and will never rush patients, or proceed without making sure patients are fully informed about every facet of treatment.

Dental Implants – Leeds Dental Practice Meliora Dental Look Forward To Welcoming You

Contact us for a full, no-obligation implant consultation. We take patient care and wellbeing very seriously, and with a treatment such as implants, there are several visits involved. We aim to make sure each and every visit is something you look forward to, and that moves you one step close to a healthier and more natural-looking smile and dentation.