Dental Implants: Who, What, and Why
Dental implants have very quickly become an intrinsic part of restorative and cosmetic dentistry, and it has made it so that more people than ever before can have a mouth full of teeth throughout their entire lives. A lot of people will lose their teeth at some point in their lives, and according to a number of studies:
- 30% of people aged 65–74 have no natural teeth
- 75% of adults 20–64 have no remaining teeth
- Adults age 20 to 64 have an average of 24.92 remaining teeth
Dental implants are making it possible to address this problem and replace those missing teeth with a solution that looks and feels just like your natural teeth.
Who is it for?
Dental implants are ideal for people who have lost one or more teeth through decay, trauma, or periodontal disease. However, if you are a heavy smoker or have uncontrolled chronic conditions (like heart disease or diabetes), you may also need a special consultation to make sure you are a good candidate for implants.
What is it?
A dental implant is made of three basic components: the titanium implant that is embedded in the jaw, the abutment that connects the top and bottom components, and the visible crown.
Why use an implant?
There are several benefits to having an implant, including:
- Osseointegration
- More self confidence
- Improved appearance
- Better speech
- Better oral health
- Convenience
- Normal eating
If you’re missing any teeth for any reason, the best solution is to speak with your dentist and learn more about these implants.