Patients who have experienced tooth loss may be concerned about how a replacement prosthetic will affect their diets, and understandably so. Certain tooth replacement methods fall short of the function of natural teeth when it comes to chewing because they lack a root-like structure that helps the prosthetic to withstand strong forces necessary to chew.
Because they are structurally complete, dental implants have a better design to facilitate chewing. The titanium cylinder replicates a biological tooth’s root, and the surrounding bone forms a bond with the implant. That link not only renders the implant a fixture in the mouth, it allows the implant to mimic a root and absorb most normal chewing forces.
As a result, patients who work with their dentist to get dental implants usually can enjoy a wider variety of foods than their counterparts who opt for dental bridges or conventional dentures. Almost nothing is off limits, although patients should use common sense. Don’t try to chew on anything that could damage a natural tooth, as doing so could also damage a prosthetic one.
Your dentist can give you more specific instructions on items to avoid eating with your dental implants.
Of course, the ability to enjoy a more varied diet is not the only benefit a patient will get from dental implants. These devices tend to be more stable than alternatives. With proper care, they can last for decades while a bridge or denture will need to be adjusted or even replaced after some time.
Dental implants also help to preserve the integrity of the jawbone, which wears away after a missing tooth’s root is no longer available to serve as an anchor. Because the implant mimics the root, it can serve a similar function in preventing jawbone atrophy.
These devices are also convenient because they require minimal adjustments to your oral hygiene routine. Of course, it’s essential to follow-up with routine dental care at recommended intervals, in addition to maintaining a good oral home care regiment, to get the most benefits and longevity from your dental implants.
If you want to continue to enjoy your favorite foods after tooth loss, consider dental implants as a tooth replacement solution. Schedule a consultation today with our knowledgeable dental team to explore this treatment option.
