Dental implants are often considered the height of tooth restoration because they’re the only method that both looks and functions like a natural tooth. Despite this, many patients question whether this is the right replacement treatment for them due to expense. There’s often a higher upfront cost for implants than for dentures or bridges.
But did you know there are other benefits to these replacement teeth that can lead to living longer? Scientific studies have linked them to improved longevity and quality of life. Keep reading to learn 3 ways dental implants can improve your livelihood!
#1: Dental Implants Prevent Additional Tooth Loss
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is linked with oral health. Adults who lose 5 or more teeth by the age of 65 are at increased risk of heart conditions, diabetes, or osteoporosis; all of which can shorten someone’s lifespan. Meanwhile, seniors who still have all of their teeth by 74 years old are far more likely to live to be 100 than those who lost teeth.
That’s good news for those with dental implants because they can prevent additional tooth loss. When you lose a tooth, your body reabsorbs the surrounding bone mass in your jaw because it believes it’s no longer needed. There’s nothing there when you bite or chew to stimulate the activity necessary to keep it healthy. In time, it’s possible for the jawbone to suffer enough deterioration that it can no longer effectively support your teeth.
Fortunately, dental implants include a titanium rod that is inserted right into your jaw to fulfill this purpose. That means your jaw will stay stronger longer and tooth loss is less of a concern.
#2: Dental Implants Avoid Gum Disease
Other methods of refurbishing your smile, like dentures and bridges, are more prone to gum disease than your dental implants. Bacteria are prone to gather on or around the spaces between these restorations and your teeth and gums. Not only that, but it’s harder, as well as less convenient, to keep them clean because they can’t be brushed and flossed as effectively. All this means you’re more prone to develop gingivitis which only advances into periodontitis if left untreated.
It’s well known that infection from gum disease can spread to other areas of your body through the bloodstream. You could end up with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, infertility issues, lung infections, or even Alzheimer’s.
Because dental implants are simpler to maintain, there’s less risk of gum disease and associated complications.
#3: Dental Implants Encourage a Healthy Diet
Another incredibly popular benefit to dental implants is the lack of dietary restrictions. Once the support rod merges with your jaw, you don’t need to worry about hard or sticky foods dislodging it like you do with other restorations. That means you’re welcome to enjoy a wide spectrum of foods for a well-rounded diet! You can enjoy raw fruits and vegetables, meats, nuts, whole grains, and more. With access to so many nutritious foods, there’s a lower probability of having problems with chronic health conditions such as obesity or certain types of cancer.
With so many incredible benefits, it’s easy to see how dental implants are well worth the investment!
About the Author
Dr. Vikram Chauhan (known as Dr. Vik to his patients) received his dental degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. After that, he completed the General Practice Residency program at Marshall University, where he was introduced to implant dentistry. He has since completed the Implant Pathway Continuum and the Doctores Valencia Surgery for Excellence course. If you have questions about dental implants, he can help! You’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling (703) 281-2111.