Dental implants are the most effective and permanent way to restore your smile after losing one or several teeth, and they’ll function like natural teeth. But are they ever medically necessary? Read on to find out.

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants are prostheses that are screwed into your jawbone to replace missing teeth. A dental implant comprises two parts: the implant and the dental crown. The implant is typically made from titanium to ensure it integrates with your natural bone to form a lasting bond. The dental crown is the outer “whitish” material that resembles your natural tooth.

The metallic part of the implant substitutes your tooth root. Since it’s made from titanium, which is biocompatible, and is carefully screwed into your jawbone, the natural bone will grow around it to fix it permanently in place. This means that your jawbone will continue receiving the necessary regeneration stimulation, thus eliminating the risk of a receding jawbone.

Why Dental Implants Are Medically Necessary

When you lose your natural tooth, your jawbone lacks the necessary stimulation for regeneration, and it recedes. This leads to the gradual loss of bone in the affected area. Eventually, the receding jawbone will alter your oral structure. You’ll also experience problems with eating and speaking comfortably.

When you immediately replace the missing teeth with dental implants, you eliminate the risk of resorbed jawbone because the implants will continue stimulating your bone just like your natural teeth. Your alveolar bone, which supports your teeth in your mouth, is stimulated every time you take a bite or chew. The same way you maintain your muscles through exercise, your jawbone is maintained through chewing and biting.

The jawbone underneath the missing tooth resorbs because it remains idle, prompting your body to assume it no longer needs it. So, it breaks it down gradually. Dental implants also allow you to eat the right foods so your body can continue receiving the necessary nutrients. You need these nutrients to fight off diseases. Also, replacing your missing teeth with dental implants boosts your self-esteem and eliminates the psychological issues that come with having gaps in your teeth. It also minimizes the risk of tooth decay and gum diseases.