If you have missing or compromised teeth, you are already aware of how they interfere with your quality of life. You may feel reluctant to smile or laugh in photos or in public, and it may not be easy to chew your favorite foods.
For some patients, dental implants seem out of reach. They settle for less effective restorations or simply live with gaps in their smiles. At Implant Dentistry of Greater Lansing, we want to show you how implants can help your quality of life and protect your oral health.
Enjoy a Healthy, Natural Smile
Dental implants allow patients to smile, laugh, talk, and eat without feeling self-conscious about their teeth. Your dentist creates your implant crowns to match your natural smile with precision.
Easier Chewing
Dentures and bridges can make chewing challenging. Dentures slip during meals and trap food. If you have a bridge, you may have difficulty chewing certain types of food or removing its debris from your appliance. Dental implants work exactly like healthy natural teeth: within reason, you will be able to eat anything you like.
Clearer Speech
Dentures may make speech unclear at times. Dental implants support everyday speech with no hissing or whistling sounds.
Protect Bone Density
When a tooth is lost, the bone around the empty socket begins to reabsorb into the body. This process can weaken the jawbone and cause a sunken, aged facial appearance. Dental implants keep the jawbone robust.
Preserve Your Oral Health
Missing teeth allow their neighbors to shift. When teeth move, they often become crooked and disrupt the dental bite. Crooked teeth are more likely to collect food and plaque, leading to higher chances of gum disease and tooth decay.
Easy Care and Convenience
It is also more challenging to keep bridges and dentures clean than to care for implants. Implants require no more care than healthy teeth: brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly.
Improve First Impressions
If you feel uneasy when you smile, others may have an inaccurate impression of your friendliness and character. A healthy smile attracts more positive attention and may open a variety of personal and professional opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adult patients are excellent implant candidates. They need to be healthy enough for surgery, have healthy gums, no untreated tooth decay, and have sufficient jawbone density to receive implants. Patients with low bone density can receive dental bone grafts before beginning the implant process.
Can I still get an implant if my tooth has been missing for some time?
If you have had a gap in your smile for a long time, we may still be able to provide an implant. You may need a bone graft to provide a solid base for the implant anchor.
At Implant Dentistry of Greater Lansing, we specialize in dental implant care. We want to help you regain your healthy smile and improve your daily life. Please get in touch with our Lansing, MI, office to schedule your consultation today!