Over the past few years, dental implants have become an increasingly popular option for permanent tooth replacements as they are longer lasting and allow patients to eat their favourite foods without worrying about dentures falling out and breaking.
Here at Paul Lowe Dentistry, we have been placing and restoring dental implants for over fifteen years using AstraTech and Straumann components, which are world-renowned systems backed by sound research data.
Here are some fascinating and surprising facts about dental implants.
Implants don’t get cavities
Unlike dentures, the good news is that dental implants don’t get cavities.
Cavities are a reflection of systemic illness in your body and if you let it go on long enough to where the cavity gets into the nerve and blood vessels, bacteria can hide in the tiny tubules of the dentin, causing chronic inflammation and infection.
Stimulate bone growth
Dental implants are the only method of tooth replacement that helps maintain natural bone growth, unlike dentures which may accelerate bone loss. This is due to stimulation of the jawbone by the chewing forces transmitted by inserted implants.
Stronger than steel
Pure titanium (and/or a titanium alloy) is used to make dental implants, which means that they are lighter and stronger than steel.
Titanium has exceptional resistance to a broad range of acids, alkalis, natural waters and industrial chemicals and is also considered to be a superior combination of high strength and low weight ratios when compared to steel.
High success rate
An article on WebMD says that “Success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%”.
Unlike other alternatives such as dentures, they last a long time, don’t need alterations and don’t rely on other teeth for stability.
Hold more weight than dentures
Dental implants can stand 200lbs or 90.7kgs of force compared to dentures which can withstand only 50lbs or 22.7kgs. Dental implants also retain their strength over time, unlike dentures.
If you’re wondering if a dental implant would be suitable for you, call the team at Paul Lowe Dentistry on 0121 711 2424.
Have you had dental implants? We are keen for you to share your experiences with other patients over on our Facebook page.