Do you need to replace a missing tooth but aren't sure if dental implants are worth the cost? Dr. Joseph Reed, your Arlington, TX, dentist at Arlington Dental, shares several important benefits of this innovative tooth replacement option. 
Increased comfort
Implants are extremely comfortable because they actually become a permanent part of your mouth, unlike bridges or dentures. Dental implants, which look like tiny screws, are placed in openings in your jawbone by your Arlington, TX dentist. Over the course of three to six months, implants bond to the surrounding bone during a process called osseointegration. When the implants have fully bonded, they provide a strong foundation for the crowns that will replace missing teeth above the gum line. Because dental implants are firmly rooted in your jawbone, you never have to worry that they'll slip and irritate your gums.
Oral health advantages
Dental implants offer several valuable oral health benefits, including:
- Fewer cavities: Losing one tooth might seem like a minor problem, particularly if the gap in your smile can't be seen, but the loss of that tooth can increase your cavity risk. When a tooth is lost, the teeth on either side begin to lean toward the gap, which may cause them to overlap. Removing plaque from those overlapping areas can be difficult or impossible. Unfortunately, if you don't remove plaque, it combines with the sugars in foods to create acids that attack your tooth enamel.
- Stronger jawbone: The roots of your teeth keep your jawbone strong by providing constant stimulation. Even though bridges and dentures restore your ability to bite and chew, they can't stimulate the bone. Eventually, the jawbone begins to weaken and shrink, which can threaten the health of other teeth and cause facial sagging.
- No effect on surrounding teeth: If you choose a bridge to replace a missing tooth, the teeth on either side of the gap will need to be filed down to ensure that the bridge fits correctly. Filing the teeth destroys a portion of your healthy tooth structure and weakens teeth. When you choose an implant, surrounding teeth aren't affected.
- Improved biting: Implants help you bite and chew normally without any restrictions. When you choose dentures, your biting power is reduced, which can make it difficult to eat hard foods.
Are you interested in improving your smile with a dental implant? Call Dr. Reed, your Arlington, TX, dentist at Arlington Dental at (817) 303-5700 and schedule an appointment to find out if implants are a good choice for you. Restore your smile with dental implants!