Dental implants are well-known for being durable, but it turns out they can do more than just provide patients with lasting smiles – they can help you live longer, too!
This might sound like science-fiction, but studies indicate it’s closer to fact than many people realize. Your oral health can play a huge role in your general wellness, and as the most advanced tooth replacement option to date, dental implants have plenty of benefits. Keep reading to see how they can help you live life to the fullest!
Tooth Loss and Systemic Health Conditions
Studies consistently show a link between tooth loss and systemic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. These illnesses can be outright deadly or contribute to dangerous complications. Those who have a full set of teeth by the age of 74, meanwhile, are much more likely to reach 100. With dental implants, the odds are in your favor!
Oral Hygiene Made Easy
Experts believe gum disease (the leading cause of tooth loss in the US) is one major reason many health conditions seem to correlate with tooth loss. The bacteria that cause this disease can infect other areas of the body and cause complications. Patients who experience gum disease, for example, are significantly more likely to develop respiratory issues if the bacteria invade the lungs.
Fortunately, keeping your mouth free of gum disease bacteria is pretty easy with dental implants! While other restorations have to be removed or require special toothbrushes to be cleaned effectively, dental implants can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth.
Empowered Nutrition
Dental implants don’t just allow you to eat more foods. They allow you to eat all foods! Hard fruits, crunchy vegetables, tough meats – dental implants are strong enough to handle all of your nutritious favorites. When your diet isn’t restricted by missing teeth or dentures, it’s much easier to eat balanced meals and absorb the vitamins and minerals you need for a long, healthy life.
Overall, dental implants can promote your general wellness by restoring your smile and improving your quality of life. If you need to replace missing teeth, talk to your dentist about dental implants – you’ll be able to enjoy their benefits for years to come!
About the Practice
Dr. Karl Anderson and Dr. Austin McCullough are both highly experienced dentists in Rapid City. As an associate fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Dr. McCullough is well-qualified to talk with you about the benefits of dental implants and help you build an effective treatment plan. If you’re interested in how this restoration can help you live longer, contact Dr. Anderson and Dr. McCullough’s office at 605-721-1219.