If you have been living without a full set of teeth for a while now and you miss being able to enjoy a thick, juicy steak or biting into the occasional hard candy, it is time to discuss the possibility of dental implants with your dentist. However, there are several misconceptions about their use that have prevented the people who can benefit from dental implants to actually commit to getting them. Therefore, before going any longer without all the teeth that you should have or buying dentures that will need regular upkeep in the future, it is a good idea to consider the facts listed below.

Any Medications That You Take On A Regular Basis Can Impact The Success Of Your New Dental Implant

While you are probably used to telling your physician and pharmacist any pertinent information about your use of medications, it is easy to forget that you should provide that same data to your dentist. It is often surprising to discover that the risks of doing so can not only impact your health while under sedation, but also it can similarly impact the long-term success of your implant and future oral health. 

For instance, some antihistamines result in a dry mouth, which can lead to an increased number of cavities and decay in and around the teeth. While dental implants are impervious to cavities due to their unique construction, the surrounding natural teeth and your gums are not. By extension, you can then be at a higher risk of implant failure. Therefore, be sure to inform your dentist or oral surgeon about all prescription, over-the-counter and homeopathic medications that you take on a regular basis in order to preserve the beautiful smile that he or she is providing you with.  

Dental Implants Can Improve The Appearance Of Your Face In The Future

If you have ever noticed that many older people have cheeks and jaws that seem to be sunken in, that issue is not just something that happens to some people as they age. The truth is that if you are missing one or more teeth without replacing them or you wear a full or partial denture to compensate for their loss, your jaw will eventually lose part of its size and strength. When that happens, that dreaded sunken appearance will usually occur soon after.

Fortunately, dental implants do not cause the same issue. They are remarkably similar to natural teeth and are known to preserve and restore the jaw that has been diminished in appearance and strength due to missing teeth. With proper care, dental implants provide long-term and permanent improvements to your smile, oral health and for some patients, even your self-confidence. 

As a result, it will behoove you to be aware of the aforementioned details when you are making the big decision about the best way to permanently restore your smile. For more information, contact a professional such as Aaron G Birch, DDS PC.