Dental implants are one of the most advanced and reliable tooth replacement options available today. They look natural, feel secure, and can last for many years. But despite their many benefits, dental implants are not a substitute for healthy natural teeth; your original pearly whites are always going to be your best bet, assuming you can keep them intact and pristine. However, there are still some instances when it is best to have a tooth replaced with something like a dental implant for the benefit of your smile’s future. Here’s what you need to know.
Your Natural Teeth Are Always the Best Option
No matter how advanced dental technology becomes, there’s no perfect substitute for your natural teeth. Your original teeth are anchored by the periodontal ligament, which helps absorb shock, allows for slight movement, and provides sensory feedback, something dental implants can’t replicate. Natural teeth are also surrounded by living tissue, which helps maintain the health of your gums and jawbones in many ways that implants simply cannot. As great as dental implants are, they aren’t your original teeth, and if these can be preserved, they should be.
When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Your dentist will always prioritize the long-term well-being of your natural teeth—which is part of why routine dental care is so crucial. But if a situation does arise in which one or more of your teeth is compromised, and your future oral health may be at stake, tooth extraction might be suggested. A few situations that warrant this procedure include:
- A tooth is so decayed that it can no longer remain inside the mouth.
- A tooth has sustained physical damage, often from sports or auto accidents.
- There’s a present dental infection that could possibly spread beyond the mouth.
- Teeth haven’t erupted properly and are impacted (often the case with wisdom teeth).
- Teeth need to be removed in advance of orthodontic treatment to make room.
How Should I Replace Missing Teeth?
All of this isn’t to say that dental implants still aren’t a fantastic substitute for replacing missing teeth—and remember, what you don’t want to do is go without your teeth! Some of their unique benefits include:
- Unlike traditional forms of tooth replacement, dental implants can replace the missing roots of teeth and provide the jaw with stimulation, preventing bone loss.
- Dental implants can last for decades or potentially a lifetime with the right care.
- Dental implants can restore the majority of your biting power, meaning that you’ll be able to eat almost anything you could with your healthy natural teeth.
As excellent and innovative as dental implants may be, you shouldn’t opt to replace your natural, healthy teeth with them—only when tooth extraction is deemed necessary, or if you’re already suffering from tooth loss, should you consider dental implants. At the end of the day, preserving your natural pearly whites is the name of the game!
About the Practice
Our talented team here at Simply Dental of Lowell has served the needs of patients in Lowell and the surrounding area for several years, under the leadership of Dr. Abulfaz Isayev, Dr. Harry Golnazarian, and Dr. Chong Lee. We offer a wide range of services under one roof, including full-service dental implants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule a dental implant consultation, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (978) 485-2929.
