At the dental practice of Bradley M. Stewart in Olive Branch, MS, dental implants are the restoration of choice. Implants offer many more benefits than traditional restorations and Dr. Stewart highly recommends them for patients missing one or more teeth. If you are wondering what makes dental implants better than other restorations, here are five compelling reasons:

1. Long-Term, Permanent Solution

Dental implants are permanent fixtures in your smile. They are surgically placed in the jaw and support custom-made, permanently attached restorations. As long as you take care of your implant-supported restorations, they can last a lifetime. Traditional restorative options like bridges and dentures usually need to be replaced within 10 years.

2. Preserve Your Jawbone & Remaining Teeth

When you lose one or more teeth, the bone that supported those teeth begins to shrink. Traditional bridges and dentures do nothing to stop this bone loss. Dental implants, on the other hand, actually integrate with and support a healthy jawbone, preventing bone loss. Other restorations, like dental crowns and bridges, can damage remaining healthy teeth. Dental implants not only preserve the jawbone but they also protect your healthy teeth.

3. Maintain a Youthful Appearance

When the jawbone shrinks after losing teeth, your facial tissues lose the support they need. As a result, your lips may turn inward, and your cheeks may sag or look sunken in. A smile restored with dental implants will support your facial tissues so you can maintain a youthful appearance.

4. Simplified Oral Care

Caring for removable dentures can be a challenge. You have to brush the dentures and then soak them in a solution, and you must also care for your gums and any remaining teeth. With implant-supported dentures, there is nothing to remove. You simply brush and floss as you would normally and continue getting regular exams and teeth cleanings.

5. Zero Embarrassment

Traditional dentures have a tendency to slip out of place when chewing or speaking. This can be embarrassing and may lead patients to avoid social situations. Implant-supported dentures are permanently attached, so they will never slip out of place and cause you to feel embarrassed or self-conscious.

If you are still hesitant about getting dental implants, set up a consultation with Dr. Stewart. He will answer all your questions and help you determine if this long-term solution is right for you. As a family dentist, he offers a full range of dental care for patients of all ages. Call Dr. Stewart today at (662) 893-5800 to schedule an appointment.