Consequences of Not Choosing Dental Implants

Are you considering your options for replacing missing teeth? While you do have choices in dentures, bridges and partials, there are significant consequences you may face if you choose these options over dental implants. Here are some top reasons to consider dental implants as your tooth replacement of choice:

Bone Loss:

One of the most serious penalties of not having dental implants is bone loss. This bone loss in the jaw results in facial collapse and premature aging. When you are missing teeth, your jawbone begins to atrophy, which then results in a lack of strong support for your facial structure including your cheek, nose, lips and skin. Dental implants act as natural teeth and prevent this bone loss because they are anchored into the jawbone. It is important to note that dentures and bridges do not have such an anchor and therefore the jawbone is not actively stimulated, which results in atrophy and bone loss.

Speech:

Among other consequences of not choosing dental implants is impaired speech. Dentures and bridges are often bulky and can intrude on your palate. This, in turn, can inhibit your tongue’s natural movement and affect the way you talk.

Eating:

Chewing is another function that patients may experience impairment if they do not choose dental implants. Denture patients typically gravitate towards a softer diet to protect their removable prosthetic teeth, which often results in a high carbohydrate diet. Through all stages of life, and especially as we age, it is very important that high fiber and nutritious fruits and vegetables remain in our daily intake. Investing in dental implants means you can chew like you would with natural, strong teeth and enjoy a well-rounded healthy diet.

Waiting to replace your missing teeth altogether carries its own ramifications. Eventually, the remaining teeth in the jaw shift in order to fill in the gap left by a missing tooth. This causes crooked teeth and a misaligned bite, which could eventually lead to orthodontic treatment. In addition, teeth that are not properly supported by adjacent teeth will actually begin to weaken and may cause additional tooth loss or injury.

Ask Wayne G. Suway, DDS, MAGD about your candidacy to receive the gold standard tooth replacement option of dental implants. You can benefit from a healthy jaw and supported facial structure as well as improved function in speaking and chewing.