Although they are not for everyone, the advent of dental implants has revolutionized the field of dentistry, providing a promising alternative to traditional prosthetics such as dentures and bridges. Yes, traditional false teeth have offered satisfactory results for centuries and continue to do so. However, dental implants' functionality, durability, and appearance mean that they are an increasingly preferred choice for replacing missing teeth. Read on to find out more about why so many people agree that dental implants often surpass conventional false teeth.

1. Improved Functionality and Comfort

Unlike removable dentures, implants are embedded into the jawbone, mimicking the natural function of tooth roots. This allows for greater stability, something that means you can eat, talk, and smile with greater ease and – perhaps more crucially - without fear of your prosthetic teeth slipping or clicking. The discomfort often experienced with dentures is usually due to friction against the gums. With tooth implants, this is almost always eliminated, providing a more comfortable option when decayed teeth need to be removed.

2. Superior Smiles

Dental implants are topped with custom-made crowns. These are more likely to resemble natural teeth more closely than dentures. Crowns are meticulously fabricated in dental laboratories to match the color, size, and shape of the patient's existing teeth. As such, they offer a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. Contrastingly, traditional false teeth can sometimes appear a little ill-fitting. Moreover, partial dentures may not blend perfectly with the color of the remaining natural teeth.

3. Bone Preservation

One significant downside to conventional false teeth is the potential for bone loss that may occur over time. When a tooth is lost, the absence of its root can lead to the gradual resorption of the jawbone. However, this is not the case with implants since they mimic natural stimulation caused by tooth roots. In turn, this can help prevent bone degradation. This feature of implants will often assist with maintaining the integrity of the facial structure, for example, by preventing the sunken facial appearance that's frequently associated with long-term denture use.

4. Durability

Note that dental implants boast an impressive lifespan compared to conventional false teeth, too. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, implants can last a lifetime. On the other hand, dentures and bridges typically require an adjustment every decade or so, and some can require replacements much sooner than that, depending on wear and changes in the patient's wider oral health.

5. Improved Oral Health

Unlike tooth-supported bridges, many people find that dental implants are favorable because they don't require the grinding down of adjacent healthy teeth. This aspect of choosing implants promotes better long-term oral health because it preserves the natural tooth structure. Additionally, a stable implant will allow more convenient access between teeth, something that helps to improve oral hygiene when brushing.

For more information, reach out to a local dentist, such as Hurley Nicholas J DDS PA.