Anyone at any time can lose a tooth or teeth. Some people lose them through decay or disease, while others may suffer a loss through an injury or accident. Whatever the reason, it can be heartbreaking to feel and see that gap in your mouth daily.

In past years, many people preferred to leave the gap due to the lack of options. Often, the only option was the removal of more teeth to make way for dentures. Even today, not everyone knows they can choose dental implants, and over 120 million people in the United States alone are missing at least one tooth.

The truth is, dental implants are more common than they have ever been. Technology even exists now to have a robot perform much of the procedure. Without a dental implant, you can lose self-esteem and jaw structure and even have problems with speech and eating.

If you weren’t aware that dental implants exist or want to say goodbye to that gappy smile for good, read on. Here is everything you need to know about dental implants.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small rods your dentist inserts into your jaw bone below the gum line to act as a replacement tooth root. Once they heal, a fake tooth adheres to the top of it to become a permanent fixture that operates naturally.

Why Do Dentists Recommend Dental Implants?

When there is another option available, such as dentures, why would a dentist recommend a dental implant? There are many reasons. The first is the appearance. They look and feel natural and are fused to the bone to become permanent.

Ill-fitting dentures can move around in your mouth and are not permanent. They can also cause you to suffer from speech problems, whereas dental implants don’t.

Dental implants are also comfortable, promote natural eating habits, and help your self-esteem. Not only do you get a tooth that looks like your own, but no one ever has to know that it’s not real.

Dentists also recommend dental implants to fill gaps for your oral health. Without something to fill the gap, your other teeth may try to fill it naturally, shifting somewhere where they are not supposed to be. Your oral health, eating, chewing, and brushing can be impacted as a result.

What is the Success Rate for Dental Implants?

Like anything in life, nothing is guaranteed. While dental implants have a high success rate – especially with today’s technology – it’s not 100 percent. The success rate can depend on the implant’s foundation, healing, and other factors. Success is usually around 98 percent, but your dentist can evaluate your chances at your appointment.

What’s holding you back? Leaving gaps in your mouth can result in many unfavourable situations that hinder your ability to smile, eat, and talk naturally. Talk to your local dentist to see whether dental implants are right for you.