Since dental implants aren’t “real” teeth, one might think that they have major limits. A patient could quickly assume that the posts only work as molars or premolars. Even so, dental implants can replace front teeth quite well over time; they don’t just serve as back-facing ones. Your Richmond dentist will even share proof of that fact with you. To that end, here’s a primer on dental implants’ ability to restore and replace front teeth.
Dental Implants & Tooth Replacement
Due to how they work, dental implants can replace any tooth in your smile. They’ll serve just as easily as front teeth as they would back teeth.
Front tooth implants may be a bit rarer, but they don’t differ much from other kinds. A dentist will still place them in your jaw’s empty sockets as part of the treatment process. At most, their abutments and dental crowns will just look more distinct to correspond with the incisors’ appearances.
Quite frankly, a front tooth implant is also more effective than other restorations. It won’t alter your adjacent teeth like a traditional denture or dental bridge would. Instead, the post will actually make the rest of your smile more stable.
What About Implants’ Other Perks?
Of course, their ability to serve as front teeth isn’t the only perk of dental implants. These special prosthetics’ other benefits include:
- Lifelike Looks – Today’s dental implants look almost identical to natural teeth. Furthermore, their titanium ensures they fuse stably and don’t fall out.
- Easy-to-Maintain Results – Compared to dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are easier to maintain. Just brush them twice daily, floss between them once daily, and rinse your mouth often.
- Better Eating & Speaking – When dental implants fuse with your jaw, they restore much of your bite force. That means they’ll let you eat and speak as you would normally.
- Enduring Effects – The average dental implant lasts 15-20 years, while well-preserved ones work for 30 years or more.
Who Should Get Dental Implants?
While dental implants can replace your front teeth, don’t rush into getting them. Consult your dentist first to see if you’re a good treatment candidate.
As it happens, only adults with fair oral health qualify for dental implants. Ideal patients need strong gums and dense jaws for the posts to work properly. Dental implants depend on such things for stability, and their absence will cause an early treatment failure.
Of course, there’s no need to hesitate if your dentist approves. Go ahead and have dental implants replace your front teeth in that case!
About the Practice
Brown, Reynolds, Snow, LeNoir Dentistry is based in Richmond, VA. Led by five fantastic dentists, our practice is quite proud of its many dental services. We offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative oral care, with treatments ranging from dental checkups to dental implants. Whatever problem your grin is facing, you can trust us to solve it for you! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (804)-470-9552.