Benefits of Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small cylindrical and/​or tapered post usually made of titanium, which serves as a substitute for the tooth root. This implant is placed in the jaw bone where it bonds with the bone and creates a solid anchor for a prosthetic tooth. 

Dentists can replace a single tooth or an entire arch by using multiple implants. Leigh Dental Centre is proud to offer dental implant treatment to all suitable patients. 

In this guide, we’re exploring the benefits of dental implants and why you might consider this treatment plan. By the end of this guide, you should have a much clearer idea about whether dental implants are right for you.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Built to last

Dental implants are a long-term solution. Traditional, tooth-supported dental bridges only last for around five to seven years. In some cases, this could be extended to up to 10 years, but at some point they may need to be replaced. 

While dental implants may need periodic adjustments, they can last a lifetime when properly placed and cared for over time. There are lots of steps you can take to help ensure your dental implants last a lifetime.

Protect healthy bone

Leaving empty spaces in your mouth after losing some teeth can lead to oral health issues, such as the loss and deterioration of your jawbone. Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves and stimulates natural bone, actually helping to stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss. 

This can help patients to avoid the sunken appearance that is common following tooth loss. You’ll maintain your facial shape and prevent asymmetry. 

Improves speech

Adjusting to dentures can make speaking and pronouncing some words difficult. This is not the case with dental implants because they function like normal teeth. They won’t slip in your mouth or feel insecure. 

This means you can speak with confidence without worrying that your teeth are going to fall out and embarrass you. This offers a secondary benefit of helping to prevent social isolation in the elderly. Some people struggle so much with dentures that they avoid social situations entirely. 

Treatment is safe

Implants are a safe, reliable and tried and tested treatment. They will last as long as you take good care of them with occasional adjustments. The treatment plan is low risk and patients report it is no more uncomfortable than a simple extraction. Recovery time is also very short, so you don’t have to worry about extended downtime following treatment.

Affordable

Considering that dental implants cost on average £1,000 to £2,500 per treatment and could last for many years. The lifetime cost of the treatment is therefore very low. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you only have to invest in this treatment once. 

At Leigh Dental Centre, we also offer interest-free credit to help our patients considering dental implants to spread the cost of that treatment. Our dentists are also highly experienced to provide this treatment, so you know you’re in good hands. 

Implants Vs Dentures

Dentures are made up of either an acrylic (plastic) or chrome (metal) base to support prosthetic teeth that are designed to match your natural smile. These are removable, and will be held in place using denture adhesive and suction between the base and the roof of your mouth.

What are the advantages of dentures?

• Dentures can be made to replace either a few or all teeth on your upper or lower jaw

• Dentures allow further teeth to be added following future extractions

• Dentures improve your appearance and bite

• Dentures can be fitted immediately after a tooth is extracted so no one will even know you are missing a tooth

• Dentures are suitable for most people

• Dentures are less expensive than implants

What are the disadvantages of Dentures?

• Dentures can take time to get used to and you will need to practise in order to be able to speak and eat with confidence

• Dentures do not support the jaw so you will notice bone loss over time

• Dentures will need to be remade and relined as the shape of your jaw changes over time

• Dentures will need to be replaced every 7 – 8 years

Final thoughts on dental implants 

As you can see, there is a lot to think about before choosing between dental implants or dentures. The first step in choosing the right restoration for you is to book an appointment with our team. We can walk you through the process of choosing between dental implants and dentures so you can make a choice that is right for your needs.

If you would like to find out more about dentures or implants call Leigh Dental Centre today on 01702 472929.