According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the average person in the United States between the ages of 20 and 64 is missing as many as seven teeth. It’s possible that at least four of these missing teeth are wisdom teeth, yet that leaves a minimum of three natural teeth missing. The chances are high that you or someone you know has lost a tooth at some point, or they will in the future.
One of the best options for tooth replacement following extraction is dental implants. In fact, this may be the best option for both your oral health as well as your general health. Dental implants in Chicago are a great option, as they are as close as you can come to restoring your natural tooth.
Dental implants offer a unique way to replace the root of your natural tooth. The implants are inserted directly into the jaw bone in order to support a replacement or restorative crown, denture or bridge. This is often the ideal solution for anyone missing at least one tooth due to an injury, oral health issues, or periodontal disease.
Dental Implants Act Like Natural Teeth
One of the greatest benefits of dental implants is their ability to fully restore your chewing power. In fact, most patients claim that they are unable to tell the difference between a dental implant and their remaining natural teeth. Patients are able to eat, brush, and floss, just like they normally would.
The Benefit of Longevity
While you may have to replace a dental bridge after about 10 years, a dental implant can last the rest of your life. Dental implants are built with titanium and integrated into the jawbone. They are non-toxic and thus will not be rejected by your body.
Prevent Future Bone Loss
When a tooth is extracted, an empty space is left in the jawbone. Without stimulation, this space will eventually deteriorate. If a replacement tooth is not applied within the first year after the extraction, as much as 25 percent of the bone volume will be lost. Over the years, bone loss will likely continue.
Dental implants replace both the tooth and the root, restoring your chewing abilities. This will provide the stimulation necessary for natural bone growth.
Adjacent Teeth Are Kept Stable
The gap left from an extracted tooth may lead to a crooked shift in the adjacent teeth as they try to fill the gap. The teeth are pulled out of the correct position, and the bite, appearance, and ability to chew are all affected.
Unfortunately, when the adjacent teeth are allowed to shift, it may be difficult to add a replacement tooth at a later time. Additionally, a poor bite can cause further problems, such as headaches, pain, and temporomandibular joint syndrome, also known as TMJ.
Dental implants are the best option when you need a long-term solution to tooth loss. It will also provide you with the best results aesthetically.
The doctors at EON Clinics are among the most experienced in the Chicago metropolitan area when it comes to placing dental implants. To take advantage of our free consultation, visit us now.
