Why Dental Implants Are Important for Your Oral Health
April 11, 2018
A carefree, healthy smile is a thing of beauty. However, if you have missing teeth, you may feel self-conscious about your smile. Missing teeth have a long-term impact on your life; over time, you may begin to avoid social gatherings because you do not want to talk or eat around others. In addition to cosmetic issues, missing teeth also pose health problems. Luckily, Dr. Curry Leavitt at Red Rock Periodontics & Implantology specializes in dental implants. If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants can benefit your life in multiple ways.
Support for the Jawbone
In the absence of teeth, your jawbone deteriorates and weakens. Dental implants from an experienced periodontist are the only restoration options that protect your jawbone and promote healthy bone structure and maintenance. In fact, implants can lead to new bone growth, unlike crowns or dentures.
Help for Surrounding Teeth
Missing teeth affect the entire mouth. Teeth may shift into the empty spaces, changing your bite pattern and making eating and speaking more difficult. Other tooth replacement methods, such as bridges, can damage surrounding teeth. Implants preserve the health of your teeth and prevent shifting.
Without an Implant
Numerous scenarios can occur if missing teeth are not replaced with dental implants:
- You may be limited in the foods you can eat.
- You may find it more difficult to speak normally.
- You may lose your natural face shape.
- Other tooth replacement options, like dentures, may fall out unexpectedly.
Implants are not subject to cavities, and with proper maintenance, can last a lifetime. They are the next best thing to your natural teeth.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have missing teeth and want to replace them, contact periodontist Dr. Leavitt to schedule an appointment at Red Rock Periodontics & Implantology in Las Vegas, NV and learn more about dental implants. We can answer your questions and explain the entire process.