What Are Dental Implants Made Of?

For the more than 150 million people missing at least one tooth, and tens of millions missing all of their teeth, dental implants offer an incredible solution. Improving the appearance, function, and health of the mouth and jaw, dental implants continue to surge in popularity in the U.S. In fact, it is estimated that more than 500,000 dental implant procedures are performed each year. Titanium and occasionally ceramic are the materials used for the surgically implanted screws and posts. The crowns attached to the dental implants are made of ceramic, porcelain, and various metal alloys. Read on to learn why dental implants are the best option for replacing single, multiple, or all missing teeth. 

5 Reasons Dental Implants are the Best Option for Replacing Missing Teeth

Whether you opt for traditional, full-size implants, or mini dental implants, both types of dental implants offer a host of benefits that make them superior to other tooth replacement options. 

1. Dental Implants Preserve the Jawbone
   
   Missing teeth lead to deterioration in the jawbone beneath the tooth. This is because the teeth roots are anchored in the jaw bone. When a tooth root is missing the jaw bone will begin to recede. This is because the purpose of the jaw bone is to support the teeth, when teeth are lost, life seems meaningless to the jaw bone and it shrinks in width, volume and density. This recession can cause a sunken look around the mouth that results in an aged appearance. However, with dental implants, the implanted screw or post replaces the missing tooth root, prompting the jaw to support the implant, just like they do with natural tooth roots. This prevents further loss of bone, and will change the nature of the bone from soft to much harder as forces are transmitted via the implant to the bone. (It is like lifting weights to grow muscle.)

2. Dental Implants Restore Your Bite Force

   Because dental implants promote the growth of jawbone and tissues around the implanted screw or post, the implants are far more secure than other dental restorations. This helps patients to enjoy a strong bite force once again, as they can easily bite into their favorite foods.

3. Dental Implants Help Restore Chewing Ability

   When living with missing teeth, people tend to adapt their chewing habits to avoid the areas with gaps. Dental implants restore your chewing ability throughout the mouth, helping to prevent uneven wear on other teeth.

4. Dental Implants are the Longest Lasting Dental Restoration

   Dental implants are incredibly durable. Whereas a dental bridge may need to be replaced every 7-10 years, dental implants will last 20 years or longer with good oral hygiene, and regular dental exams and cleanings. Some people may find that their dental implants will last a lifetime.

5. Dental Implants Offer an Improved Quality of Life

   Whether you opt for mini dental implants or full-size dental implants, patients report an improved quality of life after replacing missing teeth with dental implants. For example, patients frequently report greater self-esteem and self-confidence. Many patients who were reluctant to go out to eat with friends and family, feel comfortable taking part in gatherings and celebrations after receiving dental implants. 

   Other patients report that being able to enjoy their favorite foods once again has improved their quality of life. Still others report relief from not trying to hide their teeth when smiling, laughing, or talking to others.

Traditional-vs-Mini Dental Implants

Made of materials that are biocompatible with the body, dental implants are safe, effective, and incredibly durable dental restorations. Patients who have recently had a tooth extracted or suffered tooth loss, and do not have periodontal disease are likely great candidates for full-size dental implants. 

For patients who have already experienced significant bone loss from missing teeth, mini dental implants may be the perfect way to restore your smile in a single day. Your implant specialist can help you decide which type of dental implant can best restore your smile.

Another way to support teeth for patients who have lost most of their bone in the upper jaw is to consider placing Zygomatic implants (cheekbone implants) or Pterygoid implants (bone behind your upper wisdom tooth).  Ask Dr Sreeni if you could be a candidate for these implants. 

Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants in Rockville, MD

At the Dental Implant Center of Rockville, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr. Sreeni has decades of experience and countless successful dental implant surgeries to his credit. As a dental implant specialist, Dr. Sreeni is passionate about helping his patients to enjoy a better quality of life, with durable, safe, natural-looking dental implants. Send us a message to request an appointment today, or call 301-294-8700.