When you imagine someone with missing teeth, you might think about an older adult, but athletes are another group that may come to mind. After all, sports-related injuries are a common cause of this issue. You might be a player of them yourself, but what can you do about your tooth loss? Dental implants are often the go-to choice for patients and dentists alike, but they might be the right choice for you! Here’s what you need to know.
First Off, What Are Dental Implants?
This tooth replacement is often considered to be the gold standard out there. That’s because instead of relying on your nearby teeth or gums to hold the restoration in place, you will have a post inserted into your jawbone. The bone will grow around the fixture, essentially making it a permanent part of your oral anatomy. Once it’s fully healed, you can enjoy up to 90% of your bite back that doesn’t shift or move like traditional dentures.
However, the process of getting dental implants does span several months as the fusion process needs time to properly heal. Once it’s all done, you can enjoy your results for a lifetime with proper care.
What Benefits Do Dental Implants Have for Athletes?
Those with dental implants often enjoy them because of how reliable they are. After all, they are held securely in place, so you don’t need to worry about them coming out in the middle of a game! Not only that, but there are several more benefits you should know, such as:
- Help You Keep Up with a Balanced Diet: As was mentioned above, you can get back up to 90% of your original bite force. You will have an easier time eating raw vegetables, tougher cuts of meat, and other tasty items that promote your health and athletic performance.
- Boost Your Confidence and Communication: Many with missing teeth may have trouble talking, so this can make them feel more self-conscious. Filling in those spaces can help you focus more on speaking clearly with your team.
- Minimal Maintenance: Taking care of your results will be similar to how you would your natural teeth. Simply brush, floss, and have routine visits to your dentist to ensure they are in great shape. You should also wear a mouthguard to protect your smile from any future harm.
- Long-Lasting Solution: When implants are fully healed, the post itself can last for 30 years to a lifetime with proper care. While the restoration on top may need to be replaced every 15 years or so, it can give the benefits above for decades to come.
About the Author
Dr. Christopher Cannady earned his dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He is dedicated to helping the Clearwater community get the full set of teeth they deserve with reliable treatments like dental implants. Dr. Cannady has taken advanced training that allows him to place and complete the entire process in-house, so you stay with a team you trust throughout.
If you want to see if this tooth replacement is right for you as an athlete, schedule an appointment or call his office at (727) 441-3523.