Dental Blogs for Patients

Sedation Dentistry – What Is It?

Sedation dentistry is a type of dental care that uses sedatives to help patients relax. Dentists have used this type of treatment since the 1940s.

In fact, it was used extensively to help soldiers relax while having their teeth pulled. But since then, it has gained popularity among some dentists as an alternative to general anesthesia, which is used in most surgeries today.

Dentists use sedation dentistry on patients who need emergency or routine procedures.

The benefits of using this type of dental care are that patients can tolerate the procedure better than if they were under general anesthesia. Some patients also express they’re more comfortable throughout the process.

What Are The Options Available For Sedation?

There are various levels of sedation that you need to be aware of. Under mild sedation, a person is responsive but relaxed. Moderate sedation means a person is conscious but not aware of their process. Deep sedation means a person is on the verge of losing consciousness but doesn’t.

1.   Inhaled – Mild Sedation

Inhaled sedation is a highly used alternative in the process of dentistry. It is simple, and recovery is quick, so several patients prefer it.

The main component in this is nitrous oxide or laughing gas which the patient breathes in. It is administered through a mask that’s placed on your nose.

This gas helps people relax and builds tolerance towards pain. The dentist can control the amount of gas directly proportional to the amount of sedation.

It is the only sedation method where you can still drive by yourself at the end of your procedure. Because this is convenient, many people opt for this at a dentist.

2.   Oral Sedation – Mild/Moderate Sedation

Oral sedation is one of the more popular sedation methods for patients. It’s an excellent way to provide patients with a relaxing, pleasant experience.

While it’s less expensive than IV sedation, it’s also safer, faster, and more effective. And it has none of the hassles involved with injecting anything into the bloodstream.

Because of these reasons, people prefer this over other methods. The process involves taking a sedation pill an hour before the procedure.

The pill administered would be a type of benzodiazepine. Most commonly, this is Halcion and, in some cases, Valium or Xanax. These are known to slow down activity in certain parts of the brain.

It results in a relaxed and calm feeling which lets the dentist be more effective with their procedure. The patient is also awake throughout the procedure, which is preferable.

3.   IV – Moderate Sedation

IV sedation has been around for a long time and was the preferred method earlier. Even though more modern methods are available now, some people still prefer IV.

This type of sedation is preferred for longer surgical procedures. It is a lot more predictable than other methods of sedation. It is much less complicated than other methods and works well too.

It also works much quicker than oral sedatives, which means less time spent at the clinic. Unfortunately, this means more waiting around. Sometimes with oral sedation, they might not achieve the right level of sedation.

IV sedatives are more expensive than other methods like oral sedation. If a patient is uncomfortable with needles, they might not want to opt for IVs. But sometimes, there is just no alternative, and you need to go with IV sedation.

4.   General Anesthetic – Deep Sedation

Deep sedation can cause a person to fall asleep during dental treatment. This makes the procedure a bit more comfortable for both dentist and patient.

This type of sedation is useful when the patient needs to be put under for a long period. For example, if they are going to have a root canal treatment.

If the dentist uses deep sedation, normally, they will use a combination of sedatives to knock out the patient. This is followed by pain relievers to minimize discomfort during the procedure.

The risk here is that general anesthetic is not easy to administer. It can cause serious side effects. Dentists need a lot of experience and skill to choose the right type of anesthetic for patients.

Other Things That Can Help

There are also a few other things that patients can do to ensure a great experience at their dental clinic.

Relaxation Techniques

The patient can follow a few techniques that can put their mind and body at ease. Try to calm your mind and think pleasant thoughts. Always remember the dentist aims to take your pain away, not give you more.

Hypnosis Or Counseling

If a person is really scared of the dentist, getting some counseling beforehand is not unheard of. It helps to talk to a professional who understands what you’re going through before the procedure.

Having Someone Close Present

The best option for a person who’s averse to the dental clinic is to get someone close to go with them. They can give you company and keep you from thinking negative thoughts. To know more about oral sedation please refer here.

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made pieces of dental veneer that cover the tooth’s front surface. The veneers are usually made of a material called feldspathic porcelain, which is the same material used in traditional porcelain crowns.

While the porcelain is extremely durable and long-lasting, veneers cannot be easily removed or replaced if they need to be replaced or repaired. Here are a few dental issues that porcelain veneers can fix.

1.  Replacement For Damaged Enamel

With advances in dentistry, tooth issues are a thing of the past. Porcelain veneers are a great way to fix the problem if you have damaged enamel on your teeth. It is simple and effective while not taking too much time to add.

Once the veneer is applied, your dentist will remove any existing material from the teeth, then polish and finish the veneer to blend in with your surrounding teeth. In most cases, porcelain veneers can last from 10 years to 15 years.

2.  Make Teeth Appear Whiter

Porcelain veneers can make your teeth look whiter and last longer. They are extremely popular because they look natural and improve the aesthetics of your teeth. Veneers are made of a durable, translucent ceramic material that improves the color of your teeth. This is bonded to the tooth surface to change its appearance.

Porcelain veneers can create a more pleasing smile by changing the color or shape of the teeth. They are simple to add to teeth and make your teeth dramatically whiter. It also requires very little maintenance.

3.  Better Suited Than Braces

When it comes to improving the appearance of teeth, porcelain veneers are far superior to orthodontics. In fact, there’s a reason why many of us wear braces as children and teens. It can and does correct teeth issues. But braces are difficult to manage in daily life.

The veneers provide a beautiful, natural-looking smile without all the restrictions of braces. They are much more comfortable and are suited for people of all ages. Veneers are also removable. If the person does not like the look, they can get it removed or replaced.

4.  Works For A Gummy Smile

A lot of people have a gummy smile. Gummy smiles are the result of excess gum tissue or small teeth. This means when they crack a smile, people usually see more gums than they do teeth. While this isn’t a huge problem, gums can keep you away from the perfect smile.

Porcelain veneers are usually the first thing you think of when talking about a smile makeover. They are used to change the shape of your teeth, making them look smaller, more even, and more appealing.

5.  Used For Crooked Teeth

Years ago, the only solution for crooked teeth was to get braces for them. But as dental technology has improved, there are other far simpler options today. Even for slightly crooked teeth, people need to endure the pain and effort of getting braces.

Mild crookedness of teeth can be easily solved with a porcelain veneer. Veneers can solve these problems without all the difficulty of braces. Recent studies have shown that patients with porcelain veneers report higher satisfaction in their procedure.

6.  Covers Cracked Or Chipped Teeth

Chipping and cracking are common signs of tooth decay – also called dental caries or tooth decay. They might not hurt, but they can be unsightly. And they also make your smile look less healthy. Porcelain veneers are a great option for cracked or chipped teeth.

Porcelain veneers are popular among consumers. They can improve the appearance of their teeth without having to undergo major cosmetic dentistry procedures. They cover these imperfections completely with very little effort from the dentist.

7.  Helps Worn Or Dull Teeth

In some cases, teeth can wear down and make your smile look less attractive than it actually is. In fact, a lot of people don’t even realize that they have worn teeth. Only when they get veneers do they find their more youthful smiles.

Porcelain veneers can cover worn, stained, or discolored teeth. These layers of enamel are made of thin layers of porcelain, which are then cemented to the tooth. The layer of porcelain is then applied to the tooth and cemented in place. In some cases, dentists remove the enamel completely and replace it with veneer.

8.  Covers Teeth Affected By Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that are present when food particles get trapped in your teeth. Bacteria feed on these food particles, producing acid that erodes enamel, which weakens your tooth.

Porcelain veneers can be used to cover minor tooth flaws, such as chips or cracks. Dentists also use them to cover severe tooth discoloration due to decay. But you should note that they are not a solution to tooth decay. They can only cover the affected teeth.

Dental veneers can correct many of the flaws that make people uncomfortable about their smiles. When used correctly, dental veneers can make a person look younger and feel better about his or her teeth. They can also cover discolorations and give people a smile they’ve always wanted. To know more about us visit our website.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by a disease that develops in the gum pockets of the teeth. It is a major risk factor in tooth loss, and if not treated, can eventually lead to tooth loss. There are no single treatments for periodontal disease that will cure it. You need to follow a preventative regimen that will help reduce the rate at which the disease develops and progresses.

It will be more difficult for you to recover from periodontal disease if you are a smoker. It could be difficult also if you suffer from diabetes or have other medical conditions that weaken your immune system.

Early Signs And Symptoms

This condition is characterized by gum inflammation and bone loss around the teeth. The gums are the soft tissue covering the teeth and jaws and help hold the teeth in place. One of the first signs of gum disease is a pain when biting down on food. This is called periodontitis.

In other words, if you can’t bite down on a piece of bread or a sandwich without feeling the pain, that’s a sign that your gums are inflamed. And if you feel pain when brushing or flossing, that’s another sign. If this is happening, it’s time to get to the dentist.

If you notice any of these common signs and symptoms, you may be experiencing periodontal disease. The early signs are often painless, and you may not notice that your gums have become red, swollen, and bleeding. But, if you pay close attention to your teeth and gums, you might discover that they are starting to shift around or that your teeth and gums have started to loosen.

Causes Of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects your gums and your teeth. There are several causes for periodontal disease, one of the most common forms of gum disease. Causes of periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, poor oral hygiene, and aging.

Your bone and connective tissue begin to recede from the gum line as you get older. This means there’s more room for bacteria and plaque to cause damage. Bacteria can also enter the tooth through dental fillings, crowns, bridges, root canal therapy, and even chewing gum.

If you’re a woman, you’re much more likely to develop periodontal disease than men. This is one of the reasons why the U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) states that women should be screened more frequently for gum diseases.

Types Of Periodontal Disease

There are six different types of periodontal disease that are common. Let’s take a look at them in a bit more detail –

Gingivitis

This type of periodontal disease affects the gums and can be quite painful. The good news is that if it is caught early enough, then there is a chance to fix it.

Periodontitis

This is more advanced gum disease and is a serious problem. It also affects the nerves in the mouth and can be quite painful. If left untreated, this type of periodontal disease can lead to loss of teeth.

Apical Periodontitis

This is another very severe problem that can lead to tooth loss. This type of periodontal disease affects the bone in the root area.

Systemic Periodontitis

This refers to the inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth. It is a condition that causes the bones to lose their ligamentous support and can lead to tooth loss. This ultimately leads to the loosening and loss of the teeth.

Aggressive Periodontitis

This is characterized by rapidly progressive alveolar bone loss and can cause tooth loss and even damage to the jawbone and teeth. It is a type of periodontal disease that occurs more frequently among adults, especially Caucasians between 30 and 50.

Necrotizing Periodontal

People suffering from this also suffer from other systemic diseases. All these factors make this a more complicated case to treat.

Treatment

When we talk about periodontal disease, we’re talking about gum disease. The gums line the inside of your mouth and support the teeth. Gum disease affects about 40% of Americans. If you have gingivitis, it can be reversed, but it’s very difficult to treat if it progresses to periodontitis.

The good news about gum disease is that it can be controlled and treated. If you are suffering from periodontal disease, take steps to improve your oral hygiene and seek the help of a dental professional to treat the problem. Your dentist or a periodontist will provide you with a full examination of your mouth, which will help determine if you need any additional treatments.

Prevention

The key to prevention is to prevent periodontal disease from occurring in the first place. By eating a balanced diet that contains a variety of foods and limiting the consumption of sugary beverages, brushing and flossing at least twice a day, and regular dental visits, you can help prevent periodontal disease.

Understanding Endodontics Procedures:

Endodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues. Endodontic procedures include root canal therapy, apicoectomy, and pulpotomy. Let’s take a look at them in a bit more detail.

1.   Root Canal

Root canal treatment (RCD) involves removing infected nerve tissue from the root of the tooth. The doctors can then treat this with medications and surgery. While this sounds scary, it’s often an easy treatment to recover from. A root canal procedure is performed on an endodontic patient by a dentist or an endodontist.

2.   Apicoectomy

This procedure is used to remove part of the tooth root. The tooth root is the part of the tooth that is attached to the jawbone. After this part of the tooth root is removed, the remaining portion of the root is treated to prevent it from causing infection.

3.   Pulpotomy

This is a procedure in which a tooth’s pulp is removed, and the remaining root canal is filled with medication to stimulate the growth of new teeth. The goal of the pulpotomy is to promote healing and preserve the tooth. It’s also important to note that this is a painless procedure. The patient doesn’t have to undergo any anesthesia.

Five Things You Didn’t Know About Endodontic Procedures

1.   What Is Endodontics?

Most people associate endodontics with the root canal procedure, but it is much more than just that. It’s the branch of dentistry that deals with the inside of your teeth. Many endodontic treatments can help prevent and treat problems in the root of a tooth. This procedure is also very important in the diagnosis of internal infections.

It is the only way to reach the inside of the tooth to correct the infection. This means it has better access than some of the other dental procedures that are practiced. It also works to alleviate issues because of improper dental surgeries.

2.   Where Did Endodontics Originate?

The word “endodontics” comes from two Greek words: “endo,” meaning inside, and “donta,” meaning tooth. In other words, endodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the inside of the teeth. The term “root canal” is used to describe the part of the tooth that contains the pulp. The pulp is where the nerves are located.

According to endodontics history, endodontics was born when the first root canal was performed in 1828. Root canal was a treatment used to remove the nerve tissue from the inside of a tooth that is damaged or infected. This nerve tissue is responsible for the sensation of pain in the area around the tooth.

3.   How Does Endodontics Help Us?

At first, it might not be apparent how important endodontics are for our health. They are critical because teeth are vital to our health and lifestyle. The dentist is responsible for keeping the teeth in good condition and ensuring that no tooth decay happens. Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the root canal treatment of teeth.

Root canal treatment involves removing the infected tissues of the tooth, which can only be done when the tooth is still in good condition. A dentist usually performs a root canal procedure to save the tooth from infection and decay.

4.   Helps Preserve Natural Teeth

Endodontics is the science of managing the pulp in the tooth and protecting the tooth from any damage. Endodontics involves the removal of damaged or dead tissue in the tooth and cleaning the root canals. It also includes the shaping and the filling of the canals. Root canal treatment helps preserve natural teeth by preventing the spread of infection and allowing for a more effective cleaning of the pulp.

The endodontist is a dentist who specializes in performing root canals. The benefits of having a root canal are many. The ability to prevent the spread of infection, to improve the quality of life of your teeth, and to help prevent tooth loss, just to name a few.

5.   Dealing With Dental Trauma

If you are dealing with dental trauma, you should be treated by a professional endodontist. This dentist is qualified to treat your teeth, roots, and root canal. He or she is the only one that should be performing the procedure.

An endodontist is someone who has undergone a formal education and training program. They must pass an examination by the American Association of Endodontists before performing this procedure. You should get an appointment with this dentist as soon as possible. The sooner the problem is dealt with, the better your tooth’s chances of being saved.

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that can occur in the mouth and throat. It has been linked to alcohol and tobacco use and HPV infection, and it accounts for nearly 3% of all cancers diagnosed in the US every year.

Cigarette smoking is the major risk factor for oral cancer, especially among men — due to deep inhalation, which brings carcinogens into contact with more cells in the lungs. This article will shed some light on why you should consider opting for an Oral Cancer Screening.

1) For Early Diagnosis

The importance of early diagnosis of oral cancer cannot be understated. Oral cancer can significantly impact one’s life both physically and mentally, so it is imperative that early signs are detected for warning. Signs to look out for include:

• White or red patches or blisters in the mouth that persist.
• Black spots on the tongue.
• Abnormal changes in your teeth alignment.
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing food.
• Persistent pain in the jaw.
• Ear pain.

Early diagnosis is important because if the cancer is detected early on, it has a higher chance of being successfully treated. It also helps reduce the risk of metastasis and recurrence.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, oral cancer can spread through your system.

2) American Cancer Society Recommends it

Oral cancer is the 8th most common form of cancer in the United States, with roughly 65,000 cases diagnosed yearly. This accounts for approximately 8% of all cancers diagnosed annually.

The American Cancer Society estimates about 10,000 people die from oral cancer each year. It also estimates 11,230 deaths from oral cancer or oropharyngeal cancer in 2022.

While not as common as other cancers like breast or prostate cancer, it is crucial to know how to protect yourself against this life-threatening disease.

The society recommends tests including complete head and neck exam, Panendoscopy, and Biopsy, among others, in diagnosing oral cancer. It also recommends getting an HPV shot.

3) If You Have a Family History of Oral Cancer

Family history is a well-known risk factor for oral and pharyngeal cancer. Carriers of the facial clefting gene that cause hemifacial microsomia have increased risk for oral and pharyngeal cancer and other cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia, and brain tumors.

According to BMC Cancer, a family history of head and neck cancer is a sign of an increased risk of oral cancer. The study was done using data from 689 cases.

Another study conducted in Switzerland and Italy on 956 cases also says that a history of oral and pharyngeal cancer is a strong determinant of the same. Various studies conclude that oral cancer tends to aggregate in families.

4) If You are Under Prolonged Sun Exposure

Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV radiation leads to Vitamin D production in the skin. As a result, this leads to increased chances of developing oral cancer due to the damage done by free radicals and oxidation. Long-term exposure can lead to an increase in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), which may be caused by inflammation and chronic irritation.

Due to prolonged sun exposure, the cells of the tissue lining the mouth can be exposed to damaging levels of UV radiation. This UV radiation is known as a carcinogen and is known to cause cancer in other parts of the body.

When exposed to these high levels of UV for prolonged periods, the cells mutate and form pre-cancerous lesions. Without proper protection from these carcinogenic rays, individuals are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

5) If You Are in the 40s

Studies have shown that those in their 40s and 50s are more likely to be affected by oral cancer than other age groups. This is because of factors such as the period in which they were born, generation, lifestyle choices, and the socioeconomic status that they may have been brought up in.

As well as the fact that their teeth and gums are aging, this large age group has a higher chance of suffering from oral cancer.

This is because of the increased risk of developing behavioral and environmental risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and HPV infection. These risk factors may explain why incidence rates increase with age. If you are above 40 and have symptoms such as tooth or jaw pain, lumps in the neck, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, consider opting for an oral cancer screening.

The importance of preventative dental care is indisputable. With advances in dentistry, dental insurance assistance, and an abundance of affordable appointments, there are multiple opportunities to take the necessary steps to protect your oral health. Regular check-ups allow early detection and prompt treatment of dental problems.

Remember the good old adage “Prevention is better than cure?” More than anything, it applies aptly to dental problems. Read this article to discover the five reasons why regular dental check-ups are essential.

1) To Prevent Gum Diseases

Gum Disease (Periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection that can lead to tooth loss. A few signs of gum disease are swollen gums, bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums.

There are three different types of gum disease classified by their stage. The first stage starts with mild symptoms, while the third stage can lead to tooth loss. Regular dental check-ups are essential to keep gum diseases at bay.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly two in five US adults have some form of gum disease. Meanwhile, studies link gum disease to chronic conditions like high blood sugar and heart disease.

Check if you or someone close to you has any of the following symptoms: Redness, swelling, bleeding gums, loose teeth, tooth mobility, bad breath, etc. If you notice any abnormalities with the gums, make sure to schedule a visit with a qualified dentist right away!

2) To Prevent Tooth Decay

Many do not realize how crucial dental check-ups are. However, the truth is that they are essential for preventing cavities and tooth decay. Preventing cavities and tooth decay is not just crucial for preserving our teeth but also for our overall health.

It can lead to heart disease, cerebral stroke, hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease, or other chronic diseases. When we eat food with sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, it turns into plaque which hardens over time on your teeth and leads to cavity formation.

Intermittent pain, aching sensation, and difficulty chewing on one side of the mouth are a few symptoms of tooth decay. Teeth may become sensitive to hot/cold food or drink. The condition may develop gradually over time, or there may be a sudden onset of pain, indicating more serious dental problems.

3) To Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

As seasons change, so does the tooth sensitivity. The cold weather can cause your teeth to be more sensitive. In such an instance, even brushing your teeth too hard can also do damage.

Even if your teeth don’t seem as sensitive as they usually are, Shelby Charter Dentist recommends that you go for a dental exam and cleaning at least once a year.

Some external factors that contribute to and worsen your sensitivity are smoking, alcohol, caffeine consumption, and stress.

Symptoms of tooth sensitivity include tingling sensations in the mouth/teeth, sharp pains during eating, bleeding while brushing or flossing, swollen gums, etc. If any of these symptoms persist, visit a dentist specializing in teeth cleaning.

4) To Prevent Bad Breath or Halitosis

It’s not easy to tell whether you have a temporary bad breath or halitosis, but it’s essential to know the difference. Halitosis results from bacteria buildup in your mouth and can lead to tooth decay, mouth infections, and gum disease.

There are many reasons for bad breath. Reasons for bad breath can be attributed to stomach ulcers and respiratory tract infections too. Stomach ulcers can produce acid that causes bad breath that smells like vomit.

Regular dental check-ups are the only way to stay on top of dental health since these appointments focus on identifying issues before they become more serious.

Another pressing issue is the impact of bad breath on social connections. Engaging with others and maintaining social connections can be embarrassing if you suffer from bad breath. Shelby Charter Dentist knows that it is the last thing you want to happen.

5) To Maintain a Good Smile

The importance of a lively smile cannot be overstated. A smile has the power to bring life to your life. It can provide both the person smiling and the person being smiled at with an instant sense of positivity.

Not only are smiles warm and welcoming, but they are also contagious. The more people smile, the happier the world becomes! Alright! That’s enough ranting on ‘Smile.’

In terms of dentistry, a good smile indicates that the upper and lower teeth meet in a straight line. Having such a tooth architecture will make people naturally want to associate with you as your flashy smile is perceived as a sign of a strong personality.

A big and bright smile is also an avenue for self-expression. With a perfect tooth architecture, you can come up with different facial expressions by showing teeth differently.

That’s the number of Americans who have lost at least one tooth. If you are reading this, you may be one among them and perhaps pondering dental implants. Hang on! We are going to tell you why you should go for dental implants than any other procedure.

Implants, also known as dental implants, replace missing teeth. They are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone, fusing with the bone tissue. The posts then hold a prosthetic tooth or denture made of porcelain or ceramic.

Implants can be fixed with a single implant to restore one tooth or multiple implants to replace more than one. They are an excellent way for patients with missing teeth to regain their smile.

Here, we have listed five compelling reasons why dental implants are the best to fix your teeth.

1) Dental Implants Last Long

Dental implants are great because they will not wear down as natural teeth do. They are posts inserted into the jawbone, and then a false tooth or bridge is attached to them. They will easily last for more than a decade, meaning there is no need for back-and-forth visits to the dentist.

This method ensures that teeth will not shift, unlike dentures or braces. If maintained well, it can last upwards of 20+ years.

A way to maintain dental implants is to brush and floss regularly. In addition, if the patient has a problem with bacteria in their mouth, it may be necessary to take antibiotics. Not to mention the necessity to get regular check-ups at your dentist’s office.

2) Dental Implants Give Holistic Benefits

They come with many benefits, including improved aesthetics, jaw bone preservation, and pain relief. Dental implants are also less intrusive than traditional procedures. They also possess a lower risk of complications compared to other alternatives.

Implants are a convenient and safe way to replace missing teeth. They also improve health, rehabilitate oral function, and hold a fixed position to help prevent the bone from shrinking. It is a go-to option for patients who are allergic to metal or have chronic gum disease, as it is made of titanium.

They also provide added stability for dentures or partials that won’t stay anchored on their own. And they look like natural teeth! Voila! Isn’t that what you want exactly?

3) Implants Mimic the Functionalities of Teeth

“Why should I go for dental implants over other procedures?” you may ask.

The Answer: They are the only way to replace missing teeth with something that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth.

Most of the time, dental implants function identically to natural teeth. The new tooth will have the same feel as a natural tooth and help with chewing food, biting down, and will not be sensitive.

Those who like the look of natural teeth can coat the implant with a material that mimics tooth enamel. On the functionality side, implants can withstand the pressure without breaking or shifting out of place.

This is because implants are made of titanium, a metal that has the strength to hold up against the forces of chewing. Unlike dentures, which sit atop the gums and can cause sores, dental implants integrate with the bone structure and provide a more natural feeling.

4) Implants Have a Higher Success Rate

Implants are more popular because it has been proven to have a higher success rate than dentures or bridges, and patients can go back to enjoying all their favorite foods again. Dental implants were only used as a last resort due to the cost and effort required.

Ever since dental implants were made available for the masses in the 1990s, they have become a popular choice for people trying to regain their smiles.

Take a look at this data: An estimated 3 million Americans use dental implants. The success rate of dental implants is astounding. According to this study, the success rate is anywhere between 97.8 to 100%. The main factors affecting the success rates are pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes and gum disease.

5) Dental Implants Boost Your Self-esteem

Throughout your life, you might have experienced the loss of a tooth and the resulting mental and physical changes. These changes can include self-esteem issues and avoidance of social activities, affecting your interpersonal relationships.

Mental alterations are not the only consequences you experience when losing a tooth. Common consequences also include missing out on work or school because you are too embarrassed to show up. Implants take these risks out of the equation by effectively restoring your smile.

They are life-changing for patients because they can smile confidently and speak more clearly. Self-esteem improves tremendously after an implant, eliminating social isolation and embarrassment caused by missing teeth.