When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are often several options out there. Bridges and dentures are a few that you might’ve come across, but dental implants often shine as the gold standard. They are often talked about as being just like natural, so you might wonder how they compare to your home-grown teeth. Is one actually stronger than the other? Here’s what you should know.
What Are Dental Implants?
As a quick refresher, dental implants are posts that are placed and fused to your jawbone. They rely on your jaw to have the reliability and sturdiness they are known for. When they become a part of your oral anatomy, they can often last for a lifetime with proper care and give you up to 90% of your original bite back.
Better yet, the fixture is made from high-quality titanium or zirconia. Both materials are biocompatible, meaning they interact with living tissue without causing adverse effects. So, once implants are fully healed, they are permanent and act like a tooth root.
The portion that sits above your gumline is the restoration. It’s typically made from porcelain. It can be a crown, bridge, or denture, but they help you show off a full smile and get function out of it. This part will need to be replaced as it gets older, but it can last for up to 15 years or longer.
So, Which Is Stronger: Natural Teeth or Dental Implants?
While the metal and ceramic used might seem like they’d be tougher or better than your natural teeth, you are mistaken. No replacement can truly compare to your home-grown grin. Your enamel is formed in such a way that it helps make it resilient against chips and cracks. That said, it doesn’t mean it’s invulnerable to damage. It’s still possible when biting into a hard food, or it can become decayed or infected by bacteria in your mouth.
However, the same can be said for dental implants! They can become chipped as well if you aren’t careful. While they can’t get cavities, the supporting structures can still get attacked by plaque. You risk developing gum disease, which can then cause this tooth replacement to fail or be wobbly.
Although dental implants aren’t as strong as natural teeth, they are the next best thing. Regardless, you should make sure you treat your smile right. By brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist, you can avoid the need for these restorative treatments and enjoy your home-grown smile for longer.
About the Practice
Do you have missing teeth? Our team at Prosper Dental Health is dedicated to helping you fill in these gaps with reliable solutions like dental implants. Led by Dr. Marisol Chaves-Trautmann and Dr. Yaritza Vazquez, we can complete the entire process in-house, so you stay with a team you trust every step of the way. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 972-347-2233.