Top Reasons to Consider Dental Implants
August 17, 2017
The idea of dentures is not a new one; it dates back at least 4,000 years to China, and discoveries show that ancient Egyptians and Europeans also used dentures. The use of modern dental implants began in 1965, and they continue to increase in popularity. In the past 25 years or so, implant procedures have become simpler, materials more refined and success rates have climbed to 98 percent. Dr. Vikram Gandhi, a periodontist at Firewheel Dental Implants and Periodontics, is one among many who now offer dental implants as a routine service.
Procedure Growing in Popularity
Patients looking for an alternative to glue-in dentures have found it in long-lasting and well-functioning dental implants. In the U.S., some three million people now have them, and that number is growing by an estimated 500,000 each year. It is not hard to understand their appeal; implants anchor dentures that look, feel and work as well as natural teeth.
Why You Should See a Periodontist
If you have a missing tooth, it is important to see a periodontist and have it replaced. A gap in your teeth can cause a variety of problems over time, including:
- Shifting teeth: Existing teeth may spread toward the gap, leaving you with crooked teeth.
- Decay: Bacteria may breed in the gap, eventually causing plaque buildup and decay.
- Bone deterioration: Your jawbone may deteriorate without a tooth root in place.
- Lisping: You may develop a lisp if you are missing front teeth, which play a crucial role in forming sounds.
- TMD disorder: Misalignment of upper and lower jaws can lead to this painful joint problem.
Benefits of Implants
Dental implants provide a long-term solution to missing teeth and uncomfortable dentures. With implants, you can eat your favorite foods without worrying about biting and chewing. You also enjoy a boost in self-confidence, knowing that your smile no longer has gaps. Contact Dr. Gandhi, a periodontist at Firewheel Dental Implants and Periodontics, for more information.