One of the many great things about living in the 21st century is the fact that you no longer need to settle for missing teeth. Those gaps in your smile can be a thing of the past. There are a variety of different options to choose from, with dental implants being a preferred method, especially among celebrities. Stars aren’t exempt from tooth loss. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants and how you can benefit from them.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a metal screwlike post that replaces the natural root of the tooth. The implant, typically made from titanium, is placed directly into the jawbone by your dentist. It fuses to the bone in a process called osseointegration. A natural looking crown is placed on the end of the implant and is custom-made to be the exact size, shape, and color needed to blend in with the rest of your teeth. Ultimately, implants restore the function and appearance of your smile.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
There are numerous benefits that you will experience with dental implants. Here are just a few:
- Restores Chewing Ability: When you are missing teeth, it can be difficult to enjoy some of your favorite foods. Dentures only restore up to 30% of your bite force. On the other hand, dental implants restore up to 90% of your chewing power. This means that you won’t have any restrictions after your implants completely heal.
- Easy Maintenance: When you have dentures, stocking up on adhesives and soaking tablets can add up. You constantly need to take them out and clean them to keep your smile fresh. As for dental implants, you care for them just how you would with your normal teeth. Just brush, floss, rinse, and see your dentist for regular checkups.
- Prevent Bone Deterioration: When you are missing teeth, your jawbone will begin to be reabsorbed by the body. This can lead to other issues in the future. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement options out there that replaced the root of the missing tooth, therefore stimulating the jawbone through chewing and preventing bone loss.
Which Celebrities Have Dental Implants?
There are quite a few famous people out there who are benefiting from dental implants. Here are some that you probably know:
- Mike Tyson: As a result of his boxing career, Tyson ended up with missing teeth. He has since had them replaced with dental implants.
- Christie Brinkley: After a helicopter crash that left her with two broken molars, Brinkley had a couple of implants placed to fill the gaps.
- Ed Helms: Do you remember that scene from “The Hangover” when Helms was missing his front tooth? It looked so realistic because he actually is missing his tooth in real life. For filming, he had his crown temporarily removed from his dental implant.
- Chris Rock: Because he had some dental issues as a child, he can now credit his smile to dental implants.
If you’re missing teeth, just like these celebrities, you have options. Ask your dentist if you would make a good candidate for the procedure. This way, you will be showing off your smile with pride again in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Rodger Song is an experienced dentist who has been practicing for 30 years so far. He earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has received a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry. He is also a member of the American Dental Association and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Flower Mound, visit his website or call (972) 906-9797.