Do Dental Implants Look and Feel Like Natural Teeth?
Dental implants are a multipurpose tooth replacement choice for patients who have lost their natural teeth. The question on many patients’ minds when considering tooth replacement options is if they will ever get back the feel and appearance of their natural teeth. This article answers that question and why dental implants have become the most preferred dental restoration option.
How dental implants work
Dental implants can replace one lost tooth or several teeth. Interestingly, dentists can also use implants to anchor a bridge or dentures securely in place. One implant is usually inserted to replace a single tooth, two implants for a bridge and multiple implants for dentures. In every case, the dentist inserts the implant into the jawbone and allows the bone to grow and fuse with the implant.
After the bone heals, the dentist will connect the abutment, which will hold the new prosthetic tooth. The final implant restoration feels, looks and functions like a natural tooth. Here are the reasons that it can be hard to differentiate an implant restoration from a real tooth.
Implants have the structure of natural teeth
Patients who get dental implants can smile confidently, and almost no one will be able to tell the prosthetic tooth apart, even if it is one of the front teeth. The prosthetic crown is created from porcelain material that accurately matches the shade of the remaining teeth. Also, porcelain has a sheen that is identical to healthy tooth enamel.
Aside from being customizable to match the color and luster of healthy teeth, the porcelain crown is shaped accurately to match the form of the lost tooth.
Implants are as strong and functional as natural teeth
Once the dental implant is in place inside the jaw and integrates fully, it becomes a secure anchor with strength comparable to the original tooth. After attaching the new dental crown or bridge, the restoration functions like the lost tooth. Patients can chew and bite confidently, knowing that the implants can withstand the force without coming loose.
While others may not be able to tell the strength of the new tooth, the patient will feel the difference, especially if they have had other options, such as dental bridges or dentures. Speech and eating pattern tend to change when the replacement teeth are not comfortable or look awkward.
Dental implants can improve denture fitting
Patients who have lost all the teeth on a dental arch and have dentures sometimes have to deal with the discomfort and unreliability of their false teeth. They must be conscious of what they eat and how they talk and endure denture adhesives so the dentures do not slip out.
When patients opt for dental implants, they get more stability and comfort. The dentist will design the dentures to fit the patient’s mouths, while the implants will secure the dentures and make them look natural in the mouth.
Final note
If you have one or more teeth that need replacement, dental implants may be the best choice to get your smile back. You can start by booking an appointment with a cosmetic dentist for a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.
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