dental implants

As you get older, the chances of losing or damaging your teeth steadily increases. Fortunately, they can be replaced by dental implants that function the way your regular teeth would.

So, if you find that your teeth are aging and decaying, is it worthwhile simply to replace them with implants before they reach the point of no return? Or should you keep your natural teeth at all costs?

The Difference Between Natural Teeth and Implants

Real teeth have a layer of hard, protective enamel, which surrounds a layer of calcified tissue called dentin. Beneath that is connective tissue called pulp, along with blood and nerves. The root of the tooth is attached to the bone with cementum and supported by periodontium.

In a dental implant, the crown is typically made of ceramic, to mimic the look of a natural tooth. That tooth is connected to a titanium screw, which is placed into the jaw, so the bone can fuse with it to act like a real tooth root in a process called osseointegration.

Should You Keep Your Natural Teeth?

Real teeth still have several advantages over implants. The attachment of natural teeth to the gums helps promote gum health over time in a way that implants cannot. Likewise, dental implants put you at a higher risk for periodontal issues.

Implants also remain rigid, while natural teeth shift over time. This makes it difficult for an implant to maintain contact with the natural teeth around it. And implants have a tendency to lead to bone loss. You could need more surgery down the line to keep them functioning properly.

While dental implants can do amazing things, in the long run, it's better to keep your natural teeth if you're able. Even damaged teeth can often be restored. Dental implants should only be used for severely damaged or missing teeth.

How to Qualify for Dental Implants

Dental implants don't hold up against natural teeth. But what about dentures? Dentures are cheaper than implants, but they also need to be replaced much more frequently. And they require additional accessories, such as cleaning solutions and adhesives, while implants can simply be brushed and cared for like normal teeth. Taking that into account, dentures actually cost more in the long run.

So, for people who do need replacement teeth, why would anyone opt for a set that has to be removed nightly and specially cleaned, when they can have teeth permanently implanted in their mouths?

The problem is, not everyone qualifies for dental implants. If you have low bone density, it can make implants difficult. Likewise, if a tooth has been missing for some time, your jawbone might not be able to support an implant the way it could if the tooth were only just lost recently.

Since implants increase the risk of periodontal disease, you also might not qualify if you already suffer from it - or if you simply have poor oral hygiene in general. Finally, if you habitually grind or clench your teeth (bruxism) it might make dental implants difficult.

When it comes to teeth, nothing measures up to the real thing. However, dental implants are the next best option. If your teeth are becoming severely damaged or at risk of falling out, then talk to your dentist about implants, and see if they can help you keep a smile on your face.

Ready to learn more about dental implants? Kanehl Dental can help you put your best smile forward! To find out if they’re the right option for you, contact us today to book a consultation with Dr. Kanehl.