If you're missing one or several teeth, dental implants are an excellent choice, both for your oral health and overall appearance. Having a dental implant inserted can require a little bit more upfront time than a partial bridge or denture, but the benefits are worth it. Some of the reasons to consider getting dental implants include:

Prevent Bone Loss

When a tooth is lost and there is no longer a root connected to the jaw, blood flow typically decreases to the area and the bone can begin to deteriorate. A dental implant can prevent bone loss, since its post is directly inserted into the jaw. This keeps the jaw bone healthy if a tooth was recently loss, and if you have been missing a tooth for a long time a dental implant may encourage jaw bone regeneration. 

Stop Teeth From Shifting

When you lose a permanent tooth, your other teeth may begin shifting and causing problems with spacing and your bite. A dental implant can prevent this problem, since the procedure to place a dental implant involves placing a rod into your jaw bone and then topping it with a prosthetic tooth. Getting a dental implant can prevent your other teeth from moving out of place and help you avoid big dental care bills in the future.

Dental Implants are Designed to Last

Since a dental implant is connected to your jaw bone, you can count on it lasting for years to come. Unlike partial bridges or dentures, dental implants typically do not need to be replaced. After you complete the process of having a dental implant inserted, it is usually as good as having a natural tooth in that spot.

Low Maintenance 

You may need to visit your dentist several times during the process of getting a tooth implant properly inserted, but after that, a tooth implant usually needs very little maintenance or extra care. Unlike partial dentures or removable bridges, dental implants don't need any type of extra cleaning or disinfecting. They also usually don't cause mouth sores, speech issues, or any problems eating food like partial dentures or removable bridges tend to do. When you have a dental implant, you can treat it as a natural tooth, and all you have to do is brush and floss regularly. In addition to your at-home oral hygiene routine, make sure you visit your dentist regularly for cleanings to help keep your natural teeth and your dental implant in good shape. Contact a dentist, such as Bruce Mathes DDS, for more information.