If you lose a tooth, your dentist’s number one recommendation will likely be to replace it with a dental implant. And there are some very good reasons for this! Dental implants are long-lasting, stain-resistant, powerful enough to cut through most foods…the list of benefits goes on. With as much praise as they get, you might be wondering whether dental implants are stronger than the pearly whites you were born with.
Basically, it’s more accurate to say that dental implants are the next best thing. Keep reading to learn why.
The Parts and Pieces of a Dental Implant
Dental implants have three main parts: the implant post, abutment, and restoration (the crown, bridge, or denture that will ultimately fill in your smile gap). Each of these are typically made from either titanium or zirconia because they’re biocompatible materials (meaning they’re nontoxic and will interact well with your body).
The implant post is designed to fuse with your jawbone and act as an anchor for the restoration, and keeps it fixed firmly in place. Combine this with the durable nature of titanium and zirconia, and you have a tooth replacement that can last for 30 years or more and will retain about 70% of your bite power.
The Structure of Natural Teeth
You’re probably familiar with the visible part of your tooth (sometimes called the “crown”). Though it can chip or break with enough force, the surface is made up of enamel, which is considered the strongest substance in the human body. Beneath that is a layer of dentin and a squishy center called the “pulp,” where the nerves are housed.
Natural teeth are also anchored to the jawbone, but instead of a titanium post, they have “roots,” ligaments, and connective tissue that keep them firmly planted. You have them to thank for how long it takes to straighten your smile with braces or clear aligners!
Why Dentists Prefer Salvage over Replacement
At the end of the day, dentists avoid extracting and replacing natural teeth if at all possible. Why? Despite the impressive design and materials of a dental implant, your original pearly whites are stronger. Remember how dental implants can retain 70% of your bite power? That’s in comparison to a natural tooth. The “real thing” retains 100%!
It’s also better for your oral health to keep as much of your original tooth structure as possible. The less your dentist has to interfere with your jawbone and dental line-up, the better.
Conclusion
As the next best thing to a natural tooth, dental implants are a fantastic replacement solution for those who need them. If it’s not possible to salvage your pearly white, the strength, durability, and life-like aesthetics of a dental implant will effectively restore your smile. Rest assured, you and any onlookers will hardly notice the difference!
About the Author
As a highly experienced dentist with over 10 years under her belt, Dr. Leeza Stein is well-qualified to help you with all of your dental needs. Whether that means salvaging your natural tooth or replacing it with a dental implant, you can count on Dr. Stein to provide comfortable care and straightforward treatment recommendations. To find out whether dental implants are a good option for your smile, call Dr. Stein’s office at 972-771-2213.