Tooth replacements, such as implant crowns, dentures, and bridgework are designed to match the shape, size, and color of existing natural teeth for a perfect fit in your mouth. While all options help to fill any gaps in your smile and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, only dental implants replace both the tooth root and the tooth crown.

As a result, implants feel, look, and function like your natural tooth. Dental implants technology offers many advantages for anyone looking to replace one or more missing teeth. Here are some of the things you can expect:

• Their strong support allows you to bite with the same amount of force as you would use with your natural teeth.
• Their stability allows you to pronounce words correctly.
• Their natural-looking appearance and feel allows you to smile and laugh with confidence.
• Ongoing dental care will be similar to any person with all-natural teeth, a few months after the completion of your tooth replacement procedure. Once your dentist is satisfied with the healing and general results of the procedure.
• Implants prevent bone resorption. Once in place and supporting your new teeth, normal functional forces (eating, talking, smiling) stimulate the surrounding bone, causing it to become denser and stronger for normal function of your mouth.
• Maintain a proper bite and facial structure. Without an implant (serving as the tooth root), the underlying bone would diminish (resorption) as growth would be focused in areas with activity. Bone resorption may cause your teeth to shift and face to shrink, causing you to appear older.

Final Note

Once an implant has been successfully placed and the surrounding soft tissues show signs of good health and the new replacement teeth are comfortable and well adjusted, then the diligence of your personal attention to oral hygiene and willingness to attend regular checkups and professional cleaning will have the greatest effect on their durability. Plaque and calculus can also form on replacement teeth, increasing the risk of gum infection, soreness, discomfort, and even tooth loosening. Otherwise, with good care, implants will last as long as natural teeth.