There are millions of people in the United States who wish they still had their natural teeth. Whether caused by poor oral health and hygiene, facial trauma, or infection, they suffered tooth loss, leaving them with gaps that need to be filled. While many turn to dentures and dental bridges, a superior solution is dental implants because of their stability and longer lifespan. With all the benefits these prosthetics provide, it’s still surprising to hear patients ask about having their natural teeth removed so implants can be placed. If you’re wondering the same, keep reading to learn why your dentist will discourage this type of approach.
Why Do Dentists Save Natural Teeth?
In instances of infection, facial trauma, and poor oral health, restorative dentistry is commonly used to repair and restore teeth. The reason is that maintaining your natural smile will always be the better option, for many reasons:
- No replacement, no matter how well it is crafted, will perfectly match the look, feel, and use of your natural teeth.
- Tooth extraction requires significant recovery and often includes discomfort and soreness.
- Tooth replacement requires regular maintenance and upkeep. Even dental implant restorations wear down over time, requiring new ones to be created.
- Cosmetic dentistry can be used to enhance your visual appearance. There is no need to remove your natural teeth just because of aesthetic dissatisfaction.
- Even tooth replacement solutions, like dental implants, are susceptible to oral health issues, including peri-implantitis, so they are not immune to disease.
When Are Dental Implants a Worthy Option?
Naturally, if you have one or more gaps in your smile that need to be filled, your dentist will recommend dental implants to improve your oral health and visual appearance. Other reasons they might suggest this type of treatment include:
- A large cavity has spread and is causing further damage to the tooth as well as posing a threat to those nearby.
- You have a loose permanent tooth that cannot be saved.
- An infection has formed and is putting your oral and overall health at risk.
- You received root canal treatment, but it was unsuccessful.
- You have sustained a serious dental injury that cannot be treated with root canal therapy.
Dental implants will always be a suitable option when it’s necessary, but until one of the above situations occurs, let your dentist help you maintain your natural smile.
About the Practice
Sound Dentistry is led by three talented dentists who provide state-of-the-art care using the latest in dental technology. With a positive reputation in the community, our team is here to save natural teeth whenever possible and provide first-rate solutions should replacement be required. With a board-certified prosthodontist on staff, we can place and restore dental implants to create a smile as close to the natural one as possible. If you want to know more about these prosthetics and when they are recommended, contact us at (508) 321-7874 to schedule an appointment.