Getting dental implants is a big decision. This process involves anchoring a small steel post inside your jaw to secure your new, artificial tooth in place.

While it may seem like an invasive approach compared to other treatments, our team at Bell Family Dental PC considers implants the gold standard for missing teeth. We also provide sedation dentistry to keep comfortable throughout the entire implant process.

If you have missing or broken teeth, here are a few reasons why residents of Bayside, New York, should consider dental implants.

Long-term protection for your oral health

The role of teeth goes far beyond chewing and smiling. Each tooth provides structure and stability for the other teeth in your mouth. When you lose even a single tooth, it weakens this foundation, and your remaining teeth can shift into the empty space.

Not only does this shifting change the appearance of your smile, but it also affects your ability to speak and chew properly. Plus, it puts you at risk of uneven or excessive wear on your remaining teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, like jaw pain and headaches.

Furthermore, missing teeth also increase your risk of gum disease.

Dental implants offer a permanent solution to missing teeth. Once placed, a well cared for dental implant can last a lifetime.

A secure fit that preserves your appearance

When you lose a tooth and its root, your jawbone can start deteriorating due to bone loss. As your jawbone shrinks, your face can change. If this occurs, your face can look shorter, and your lips sink in without the support of your teeth and jaw. That causes wrinkles and makes you look older than you are.

Because the implant anchors into your jawbone, it continues stimulating bone growth — just like a natural tooth root.

Permanent, natural-looking solutions

There are several options to replace missing or broken teeth, including temporary solutions like bridges, crowns, and dentures. However, nothing provides the secure, natural fit of an implant.

After your implant fuses to your jaw, your new tooth remains firmly in place — just like a natural tooth — allowing you to chew, speak, and smile without worry that it will shift or slip. That means you can eat, talk, and smile with confidence as if you never lost a tooth at all.

And, with proper care through brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings with our team at Bell Family Dental, you can expect your implant to last a lifetime.

Your health and dental implants

Approximately three million Americans have implants, and that number continues to grow by 500,000 each year. But they aren’t right for everyone.

We don’t recommend this tooth replacement option if you:

• Smoke
• Abuse substances or alcohol
• Have certain chronic conditions or immune deficiencies
• Are pregnant

We also perform a comprehensive consultation and check your jawbone density before recommending implants.

Ready to see if a dental implant is right for you? Contact our office in Bayside, New York, by calling (718) 224-4646 or requesting an appointment online today.