Did you know that athletes and others who participate in team sports or other close-contact activities, such as martial arts, may be more likely to experience tooth loss? Participants are prone to sustaining a blow to the face that can break, damage, or dislodge their teeth.
Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles, but you’re not alone if you’re at athlete and are wondering whether it’s the best treatment for you. Continue reading to learn about 3 excellent reasons to consider restoring your smile with dental implants!
Reason #1: They’re Firmly Rooted in Place
Many people are surprised to learn that the jawbone starts to thin when teeth fall out. Without as many roots to stimulate new bone growth each time you bite down, it starts to degenerate, which can eventually contribute to additional tooth loss, changes to your bite alignment and facial structure, and other concerns.
Only dental implants are placed directly into your jaw and eventually fuse with the bone to function more like natural roots. This helps keep the foundation of your mouth active and healthy. Not only that, but these replacement teeth are also less likely than dentures or bridges to become destabilized or dislodged, so you are free to focus on your game or match.
Reason #2: They’re Incredible Durable
These restorations are made from resilient materials, such as lightweight titanium and tooth-colored ceramic, that are strong enough to withstand daily biting and chewing. But some athletes clench their teeth together during workouts, which can be harmful.
Thankfully, the porcelain comprising your new tooth is less porous than natural enamel, making it less likely to soak up pigmented particles and stain, or chip or crack under pressure. As a result, they often last 20+ years if cared for correctly. The strength of these materials and placement of your dental implants helps ensure that they remain firmly in place, helping avoid costly repairs or replacements that are more common with alternative treatments, like dentures and dental bridges.
Reason #3: Improved Bite Force
Plenty of athletes will tell you that, while training and exercise are necessary for improvement, it’s also essential to eat nutritious foods that support your oral and overall health.
Fortunately, dental implants can restore up to 80% or more of your original chewing power, so that you can fill up on wholesome foods that help your body function at its peak to enhance your performance.
If you’re an athlete seeking reliable replacement teeth that boost your abilities and well-being, you might be a good candidate for dental implants!
Meet the Author
Dr. Sung-Hee Lee is passionate about improving her patient’s daily quality of life by enhancing their dental health. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry, and is an active member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association to remain abreast of current treatment trends and technology. She offers a complete menu of services, including implant placement and restoration, to meet your unique needs conveniently under one roof. If you want to rebuild your smile, you can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 481-8800.