No matter how many times people are reminded that brushing their teeth is good for their health, still we suffer from tooth loss.
Despite the many advancements in dental health nowadays, many people still lose their teeth due to injury, gingivitis or tooth decay.
Whether they lose them from having a sweet tooth, poor dental hygiene or a heated argument gone wrong, dentists of old had simply used bridges or dentures to fill up the gaps.
Today, however, thanks to the miracle of modern science, they are now replaced with what we know as dental implants.
Touted to be the best solution to lost or missing teeth, these are replacement tooth roots which provide a strong foundation for fixed or replacement teeth.
They are made to match your natural teeth and while most people are iffy about getting implants, the success rate of getting them done are actually at 98% especially with proper care.
Those who are healthy enough to undergo an oral extraction or dental surgery can get implants done as long as their gums are healthy and have enough bone to hold the implant.
Patients who may not be considered for this type of procedure include those with diabetes or heart diseases, heavy smokers and those who've had radiation therapy to the head/neck area.
Getting dental implants for these types of patients requires pre-evaluation on an individual basis but even if you know you are eligible, it is still best to discuss options with your dentist first before getting them done.
So how does one go about getting the gaps filled? First, the implant or what the dentist refers to as the "titanium post" is surgically placed into the bone which the oral surgeon exposes and left to heal.
Lower jaw bones tend to heal in approximately three months while upper jaw bones tend to do so in approximately six months.
Once healed, the base will be replaced by a temporary crown and then left again to heal for around two to three months before the actual replacement tooth is finally put in to be placed over the crown.
You may feel different at first but the great thing about getting implants is that since they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent and thus, give you a dazzling new smile.
Dental implants have many benefits for those who want to improve their smiles as opposed to getting dentures or bridges.
For one, poor fitting dentures can slip within your mouth, causing you to slur your words or mumble a lot.
Because implants fit securely, you won't have to worry about it slipping.
Another benefit of implants is that it allows you to chew better, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about sliding dentures and pain.
Because they become part of you, implants are also more comfortable than wearing dentures and more durable as well.
However, given these long-term benefits, people also hesitate about getting implants done as they are unsure about how much it costs.
Getting implants done can be covered by your insurance depending on the conditions of your plan or the cause of tooth loss, so you will need to check with your dentist or insurance provider about the possibilities.
Getting implants is something that can help you feel better about yourself.
So, head on over to your dentist's office today and see for yourself how a great smile can do wonders for your confidence and self-esteem.