If you’re missing a tooth, you’re likely to feel anxious about other people looking at your grin. Needless to say, constantly worrying about the appearance of your smile can take its toll on your confidence. However, there’s no need to leave the gap empty; in many cases, you may be able to fill it with a dental implant. Here’s what you need to know about this state-of-the-art option for tooth replacement and the benefits it can have for your self-esteem.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a different kind of tooth replacement compared to traditional dentures and bridges. They don’t just fill in the gaps in your smile; they can also mimic the functions of natural tooth roots.
A dental implant post – which looks like a screw and is more often than not made out of titanium – can be placed in your jaw during a simple surgical procedure. It will eventually become fully integrated with the bone around it, meaning it will be just as secure in your mouth as your natural teeth. It can then provide support for a lifelike crown, bridge, or denture.
How Can Dental Implants Help Your Confidence?
Obviously, the simple act of getting rid of the gap in your smile is often enough to make you feel a lot better about your appearance. But that’s not the only way dental implants can benefit your confidence:
- After you receive your final restoration, your dental implants will both look and feel natural, meaning you’re less likely to feel self-conscious about your grin.
- People with incomplete smiles may not go out to eat as often as they used to because of how challenging it is to enjoy a variety of foods. Dental implants have enough chewing power to let you eat whatever you want, so you don’t have to be hesitant about heading to your favorite restaurant.
- A traditional denture can sometimes move out of its proper place when you’re trying to speak. Dental implants don’t have this problem; they are permanently fixed to a single spot in your jaw.
- The jawbone often deteriorates when teeth are missing. Over time, this can result in wrinkled lips and other changes to the face that make you look older. Dental implants can help encourage the growth of new bone in your jaw, which can go a long way toward preventing premature aging of your facial features.
Your dentist can explain some of the other advantages of replacing teeth with dental implants and help you determine whether the treatment is the best choice for you. Is an incomplete smile causing you to doubt yourself? Dental implants may be just the thing to help you feel more self-assured!
About the Author
Dr. James P. Kostas is a proud native of Burlington with more than 30 years of dental experience. He’s happy to be able to bring his hometown friends and neighbors positive dental experiences. He is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and is able to offer in-house dental implant placement. To schedule an implant consultation with Dr. Kostas at Complete Dental Care, visit his website or call (781) 272-0441.
