Do you know what the hardest substance in the human body is? It’s your natural tooth enamel! But if you’re missing permanent teeth, you probably already know that most methods of tooth restoration don’t come close to the real thing. In fact, it is said that dentures only provide about 20 to 25 percent of the bite force of your natural ones. But while that may not matter much if you eat a mostly soft diet, losing permanent teeth shouldn’t have to mean giving up the healthy, crunchier foods you love. Enter dental implants.
Unlike other tooth restorations, dental implants are permanent replacements that not only look and feel natural, but they restore between 80 and 90 percent of your bite force! Here are a few reasons why dental implants are the gold standard for tooth restoration, and how to know if you qualify for treatment.
What Are Dental Implants?
Unlike dentures which are completely removable and sit on top of the gums, dental implants are permanent titanium rods which are inserted into the jawbone as an anchor. Then, a metal part called an abutment sits on top of the implant, and a crown (tooth) is attached to the abutment. The crowns look and feel just like real teeth, and work almost as well!
Why is Biteforce So Important?
You may have heard the term biteforce before. This refers to the strength of your bite. A full biteforce allows you to eat a variety of healthy, crunchy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, different preparations of meat, and even things like crusty breads and crackers.
When you are missing or have damaged permanent teeth, it can be difficult to chew these foods. Dentures can make it easier to eat some of them, however to reap the benefits of a full diet, dental implants are your best tooth restoration option.
Failure to chew these types of foods can not only restrict the kind of foods you enjoy, but they can also make it harder to digest the foods you can eat. This can lead to digestive problems like acid reflux, or in severe cases, malnutrition.
Do I Qualify for Dental Implants?
If you are missing one or more permanent teeth, treating your smile with dental implants is the best method to do it, hands down; however, not everyone will qualify initially. To receive them, your gums and jawbones must be in good condition. If they are not, you may need to undergo gum grafting or periodontal disease treatment first. Your dentist will discuss this with you at your consultation.
Remember, restoring your smile with dental implants goes beyond just appearances. These dynamic prosthetics can restore up to 90 percent of your biteforce, once again allowing you to enjoy a full diet, including a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other options that may not have been possible with missing teeth or dentures.
To learn more about whether you qualify for dental implants, speak to your dentist today.
About Our Practice
At McElroy Smiles by Design of Encinitas, we offer a variety of solutions to restore your smile and improve your biteforce. If you’re interested in learning more about how dental implants can replace lost teeth and help you enjoy a healthier, more delicious diet, please schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 760-621-8700.