Did you know that about 60% of Americans between the ages of 35 and 44 are missing at least one tooth? This fact could be the reason why millions of dollars are spent on restorative cosmetic dental procedures every year in America. When people think of missing teeth, they often get an image of their grandparent wearing dentures to hide gaps, but in recent years, dental implants are gaining repute as a more effective solution.
Dentures are typically a removable fixture that can take the place of a few teeth, or fit an entire set of teeth into a patient’s mouth. These prosthetic teeth were extremely useful when the current version was first developed in the last few decades.
But dentures often cause more discomfort for wearers than relief. The paste or adhesive used to hold dentures in the oral cavity has a tendency to wear, causing the dentures to slip out of place and continuously fall from the gums. This makes speaking, eating and smiling difficult. The up and down motion of loose dentures, particularly on the lower gums, can also lead to sore spots and redness, which produces irritation and cuts. Also, gagging is a common reflex when loose dentures are pushed too far back in the mouth, adding to their discomfort.
By contrast, dental implants provide a permanent solution to missing teeth, and 3 million Americans have opted for this dental surgery, a number that is increasing by 500,000 people every year, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). Dental implants involve drilling an artificial root, typically made from titanium, into the jawbone. After the root heals, an abutment, or connector, is used to join the crown or new tooth to the implant. Over the next few months, the jaw heals around the implant, securing it in place. These implants are designed to remain in tact and can last a patient a lifetime with proper care. This dental cosmetic procedure is also considered 98% effective.
Another major advantage of dental implants over dentures is that implants help to protect the jawbone. As the years pass, a missing tooth root can cause deterioration in other areas of the jawbone, and ultimately lead to facial collapse and jaw recession. When an implant is inserted, it replaces the missing tooth root, helping to preserve bone quality.
While dentures have come a long way since 500 BC, when Etruscans fashioned dentures out of human and animal teeth, they are not considered the optimal treatment for tooth loss. The benefits that implants provide give ample reason for the AAID projection that this market will reach approximately $5 billion within the next four years. They also restore a sense of self-confidence in patients, and give tooth loss sufferers something to smile about. Read more blogs like this.
