5 Dental Implant Facts You May Not Know

Dental implants are a wonderful thing. They're loved by dentists and patients because of their longevity, natural appearance and ability to restore function to speaking and eating. But how much do you really know about dental implants? You might know the basic facts about the dental implant procedure and how much they cost, but there are several other fun, interesting and obscure facts you may not know.

Here are five dental implant facts:

1. Dental implants have the highest success rate of any tooth replacement solution.

Other tooth replacement solutions like bridges, crowns and dentures have a shelf life. Crowns and bridge can last anywhere from five to 10 years, while dentures may need to be replaced or adjusted after seven years. Also, even if a bridge, crown or denture lasts a while, it may not be successful when it comes to eating, drinking or speaking. Dental implants, on the other hand, last forever, have a 98% success rate and give you all the function and look of your natural teeth.

2. Dental implants can't get cavities.

It's a common question by people considering dental implants: can my implant get cavities? In short, no. Since it's made out of an artificial material, it can't decay like your natural teeth. It's still important to clean the gums and teeth around the implant, however.

3. Dental implants are made from the same material used by NASA.

Did you know the titanium used in most dental implants is the same type of metal used in space shuttles, rockets and guided missiles? Titanium and titanium alloy are stronger and lighter than steel, ensuring your implant will last a lifetime.

4. Dental implants make your jawbone stronger than ever.

Because they don't fuse to the bone in your mouth, teeth replacement solutions like bridges and dentures actually weaken your jawbone. Dental implants strengthen it due to the fact titanium has biologically fusing properties associated with it that spur bone growth.

5. You can get dental implants at any age.

You can get a dental implant whether you're 16 or 86. As long as your mouth is healthy, your teeth are done growing and a dentist deems you an ideal candidate, you can get dental implants at any age.