With all the hype that surrounds dental implants and their unparalleled benefits, it can be tempting to wonder if they might be a better option than your natural teeth. Cavities, tooth decay, and infection can begin to take a toll, especially when you feel as if you’re spending more to maintain your regular smile over time. But is saying goodbye to your original pearly whites a good idea? Read on to learn why you shouldn’t rush to replace your existing smile.
Why Should You Keep Your Natural Teeth?
Most dentists will never encourage you to replace your natural teeth with dental implants or any other form of tooth replacement unless it’s necessary. There are several reasons for this:
- Natural teeth are far more comfortable than tooth replacements.
- Natural teeth produce the most durable bite force.
- Natural teeth continue to stimulate your jawbone, preventing tooth loss and bone resorption.
- Natural teeth keep each other in place as opposed to drifting and causing misalignment.
- Tooth loss can increase the chances of systemic health conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
Although you may be spending time and money on restorative treatment to address cavities, decay, gum disease, or even infection, it pales in comparison to what you can expect should you replace your natural teeth with dental implants.
Custom prosthetics are likely to cost more than regular repairs or restorations over time. Also, if your concerns are aesthetic, there are countless cosmetic services available to transform your appearance.
Why Might My Dentist Recommend Tooth Removal?
You can expect that your dentist will do everything in their power to help you keep your natural teeth, but if one of the following problems arises, the potential for tooth removal will likely increase:
- An infection forms that cannot be treated or eradicated with a root canal.
- Additional space is required for orthodontic treatment, especially when addressing overcrowding.
- A tooth becomes fractured, affecting the root.
- A large cavity prevents successful treatment with a dental crown or root canal.
- A tooth is loose as a result of advanced periodontitis and cannot be saved.
You only get one pair of natural teeth, so it’s best to keep them around as long as possible. With your dentist’s help, you can maintain your oral health and regular smile for many years. When and if the time comes to consider tooth removal and replacement, you can rest easily knowing it’s the right decision.
About the Author
Dr. Kelly Thanh has spent the last 25+ years changing the smiles and lives of her patients. Providing superior service and care in all areas of dentistry, she is pleased to offer solutions that help those with missing teeth regain their confidence. With dental implants, she can rebuild and restore incomplete smiles, so they work well and look beautiful. However, she can also administer tooth-saving services so that patients can continue to enjoy the benefits of their natural teeth. If you want to discuss what you can do to take better care of your pearly whites, visit our website or call (408) 972-2835.