Dental implants continue to gain popularity as a reliable way to rebuild your smile after tooth loss because of their many unique benefits. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, these restorations are embedded directly in your jawbone, so they’re usually sturdier and more resilient than the alternatives.
But that’s not the only thing that makes this treatment so unique. Continue reading to learn 3 fascinating facts you might not already have known about these ideal replacement teeth!
Tidbit #1: They Share Materials with Missiles
Would you be surprised to learn that your dental implants have something in common with missiles? It might seem unlikely, but your new tooth includes a titanium rod that’s surgically placed in your jaw to function like a root. This material is chosen because it’s biocompatible and eventually fuses with your jawbone.
Furthermore, it’s strong enough to withstand the daily pressure of biting and chewing, but lightweight enough to be comfortable in your mouth. This high strength-to-weight ratio is why NASA uses titanium for different aerospace components. It’s also ideal for components of missiles that must withstand extreme conditions.
Tidbit #2: They Don’t Decay
If you’re concerned that your restoration will develop cavities like natural teeth, you can thankfully set your fears aside. The crown portion above your gumline is typically made from durable porcelain that’s less porous than enamel and isn’t comprised of the same organic materials. As a result, bacteria in your mouth can’t penetrate the surface or cause disease.
However, that doesn’t mean you don’t have to worry about cleaning it consistently. You must continue brushing and flossing twice daily to avoid common oral issues. If germs in your mouth penetrate your implant, you could develop a pervasive form of gum disease called peri-implantitis, the leading cause of failure.
Tidbit #3: They Preserve Your Facial Structure
Did you know that your roots help maintain your jawbone? They stimulate new bone growth with every bite down that keeps it healthy, which in turn supports your facial structure. Unfortunately, you can lose up to 25% of the surrounding bone mass within the first year of them falling out.
A weakening jawbone affects more than just your mouth. As it thins, the muscles and ligaments connected to it grow slack, causing additional fine lines to form on your face. The titanium rod of your implant functions like a root to prevent this process of degeneration and preserve a younger-looking visage.
Of all the available options for rebuilding your smile, dental implants look and function the most like your natural teeth!
Meet the Author
Dr. Evan Pedersen has more than 10 years of experience helping people in Austin build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Boston, and today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location. He takes the time to get to know you, and prioritizes patient comfort with modern amenities and luxuries to help you relax during your visit. Then, he utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate treatment results intended to last. If you need to replace missing teeth, you can request an appointment on the website or call (512) 777-0866.