Throughout our 15-year practice, we have witnessed the growth in popularity with dental implants. Their cost, once considered prohibitive, has become more accessible to a wide range of patients because dentists are much more familiar with their surgical and restorative processes. In addition, clinics in dental tourism, like ours, make dental implants more accessible by offering an alternative to patients who would otherwise still find them too expensive at home. Dental implants are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, but there are some surprising aspects to them that many people don’t know about. Here are five surprising facts you should know about dental implants.
1. They help preserve your bone density.
One of the most unexpected benefits of dental implants is that they help preserve jawbone density. When a tooth is missing, the bone around the area can shrink due to lack of stimulation, but implants mimic natural tooth roots, maintaining bone strength and density in the jaw. This is especially important in younger patients because premature bone resorption can lead to many other dental complications.
2. They are an outstanding investment.
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime with little maintenance. The titanium used in implants fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, which gives them an incredibly secure and durable foundation that can last for decades, unlike other dental restorations like bridges or dentures, which may need periodic replacements.
3. Completed dental implants require three parts.
The dental implant is the titanium screw that is drilled into your bone and serves as a root supporting the restoration. The implant will generally be covered with gum, so an abutment must be attached to it to serve as support to the crown, bridge, or denture sitting over the implant. These three parts will be jointly considered a completed implant, but keep in mind the total cost will be broken down into these three parts. If any of these parts are missing, then the implant is incomplete.
4. Dental implants are a great replacement for dentures.
Unlike dentures, which need regular adjustments and replacement, implants are essentially maintenance-free once healed. They just need the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. They also provide much more comfort when eating and speaking because they are fixed. Their strength and durability also outrank traditional acrylic dentures.
5. Dental implants can boost your quality of life.
Many people report a boost in self-esteem and comfort after getting implants because they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Implants allow for normal chewing, speaking, and smiling. There are little restrictions in diet because very much mimic the function of natural teeth. Many patients who felt could not eat normally returned to their favorite foods while restoring the look of their smile.
At the Costa Rica Dental Team, we believe dental implants are life-changing to our patients and are revolutionizing dentistry in general. Because of their high success rates, we are now able to complete fixed, complex restorations that involve the full mouth. With every year, these treatments become more available to patients and their risks become smaller. At our clinic, we are committed to providing the highest quality dental care at affordable costs. We have a full team of dental professionals and a world-class dental lab ready to provide you with the treatments you need. We are also equipped to resolve even the most complex cases, so if you think your case is hopeless, think again. Contact us now to find out how a one-week trip to Costa Rica can change your life!
