If you have one or more missing teeth, there are a broad range of restorative options available to help you regain an attractive, functional smile. While your dentist can review your candidacy for each option in detail, one solution you may want to discuss is dental implants. Featuring a titanium rod that is surgically affixed to the jaw and a natural looking prosthetic, implants are among the most preferred solutions for missing teeth for the following reasons.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

1. Durability

While receiving dental implants is more invasive than other alternatives, the good news is that most patients only undergo the procedure once in their lifetime. Dental implants can last at least 25 years when properly cared for. Thus, as long as you’re brushing and flossing diligently and maintaining a regular schedule of dentist’s appointments, your implants should continue to look and perform their best for many years.

2. Functionality

Another reason so many patients are drawn to implants is because they look and feel like natural teeth. Due to their configuration, they stay firmly in place while you are speaking and eating and won’t slide around or cause discomfort. Because they don’t need to be removed or washed, they’re also supremely convenient. Dentists can also match the color and shape of your prosthetic to look just like your surrounding natural teeth.

3. Disease Prevention

Since implants stay in place permanently and are rooted beneath the gumline, they help prevent the surrounding natural teeth from shifting. This can also minimize the risk of bone, tooth, and gum loss over time. Implants also grant patients easy access between the teeth for flossing, which can further help control risks for serious dental issues, such as periodontitis.

Addressing missing teeth isn’t just important for cosmetic issues, but it can also help preserve the integrity of your remaining natural teeth and gums. As a trusted dentist’s office with over 30 years of experience serving Stone County, MO, residents, Kimberling City Dental Center can help find the solution to meet your unique needs. Browse through their restorative dentistry services on their website, or call (417) 739-4965 to schedule an appointment.