How Do Dental Implants Improve Your Health?

Prevent Bone Loss in the Jaw

Once you lose a tooth, your body will start to absorb the minerals in your jaw to use elsewhere. It assumes that the bone tissue is no longer needed because the tooth is gone.

If left untreated, bone loss in the jaw can lead to a condition called facial collapse. This alters the shape of your face so your profile appears sunken. It can also make it difficult or uncomfortable to wear dentures.

The good news is the dental implant procedure can help you retain the bone density in your jaw. A dental implant exerts pressure on your jawbone like a natural tooth root would. This tricks the body into thinking the tooth is still there, which allows you to avoid jawbone deterioration.

Stop Remaining Teeth From Shifting

Your teeth are held in place by their roots, the gums, the jawbone, and adjacent teeth. This means that when you lose one tooth, the teeth near the empty socket lose some of their support. Over time, this can cause your remaining teeth to loosen and tilt toward the empty socket. The teeth may even fall out if you don’t replace missing teeth in a timely manner.

A dental implant replaces a missing tooth, which helps hold the adjacent teeth in place. That way, you’ll be able to retain as many of your natural teeth as possible. Dental implants help prevent future tooth loss so you can restore your oral health and smile with confidence.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

It can be difficult to eat a healthy, balanced diet when you’re wearing uncomfortable dentures that slip. Patients who have worn dentures for years are more likely to experience jawbone deterioration. This can make wearing dentures difficult, regardless of whether you’re speaking, eating, or smiling.

Since tooth implants are fused to the jawbone, you’ll never have to worry about them slipping when you’re trying to eat your favorite foods. This allows you to eat a full, unrestricted diet so you can give your body the nourishment it needs.

Feel More Confident

Patients who have experienced tooth loss may feel self-conscious about their smiles. This may cause them to cover their mouths when they laugh or smile with their lips closed. It can also affect their confidence when they meet new people.

Some people may feel embarrassed about their oral health and put off seeing a dentist. But we want you to know that Scott Ellard Dentistry is filled with caring and compassionate people who are ready to help. Our dental practice is a no-judgment zone that’s dedicated to meeting you wherever you are in your journey.

Completing the dental implant process can help give you the confidence you need to live life to the fullest and to show off your beautiful smile to the world.

Request an Appointment with Us

Dr. Scott Ellard is a dental implant dentist who is proud to serve Portage, Kalamazoo, and surrounding West Michigan areas. To schedule an appointment, please call Scott Ellard Dentistry at (269) 329-1880. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.