Tooth loss can cause a long list of serious complications, ranging from problems talking and chewing to significant bone loss that changes the look of your face. Fortunately, dental implants can eliminate these issues while restoring your smile. Here is a little more information about what dental implants are and when they are recommended. 

Understanding the Need for Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?  

Unlike dental crowns, which are tooth-colored caps cemented over the top of natural teeth, dental implants have their own artificial root that is implanted into jaw tissue. These posts are made from titanium, which has been found to fuse well with bone over time. This fusion creates a strong, stable base for a permanent crown.

Although many people assume that dental implant technology is brand new, they were invented in the mid nineteen fifties by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon and have been used in professional dentistry since the seventies. Over time, implants have become even stronger and more reliable, which is why patients today experience an extremely high success rate with the procedure. 

When Are Implants Recommended?

Dental implants are recommended for patients who have healthy gum tissue but have lost teeth for one reason or another. To be a candidate for dental implant surgery, patients must be committed to good oral health care and must not have taken certain medications, such as bisphosphonates. Although dental implants typically cost much more than other replacement alternatives, they can last a lifetime, driving down the overall price of ownership. 

Start on the path towards better oral health today by talking with the professionals at Premier Dental in London, KY. With services spanning from routine cleanings and dental veneers to gum disease treatment and implants, this experienced dentist and the crew can help you to enjoy the smile you have always wanted. To find out more about their services, visit their website or call (606) 877-3002 to schedule your first appointment.