When you lose a tooth, the resulting gap is more than an inconvenience. The teeth around the gap may shift out of position and change the shape of your face.

Infection may set in through the opening and cause serious health problems. Finally, it may make it harder to chew and could even effect your smile. You appreciate the value of having the tooth replaced, but you aren’t sure which option to go with.

Crowns and bridges are commonly used to replace missing teeth, but dental implants are a permanent solution that may prove to be a better choice.

A Common Procedure

The New York Times reports that 69 percent of adults between 35 and 44 years of age have lost at least one permanent tooth. Whether the loss comes through injury, illness or periodontal disease, people are increasingly turning to dental implants as an effective solution.

It’s estimated that the amount of dental implants has tripled in the last 10 years with roughly two million procedures being done every year.

A Permanent and Safe Solution

One of the key benefits of implants is that it’s a permanent solution that won’t damage the surrounding teeth. Bridges can rub on the nearby teeth and cause premature wear. Crowns can harm what’s left of the original tooth.

Implants work by creating an artificial root that will hold the new tooth. It’s safe for the surrounding teeth, and the artificial root can last for a lifetime.

Greater Range of Dining Choices

People with crowns have to be careful about what they eat or drink, but this isn’t a concern with implants.

This option is the closest to your natural teeth, and that makes it a great choice for people who don’t want to worry about changing their diet or buying special foods.

The Natural Look and Feel

Companies like Advanced Dental Techniques in Wayne, NJ, and others in your area offer dental implants because they’re the next best thing to your natural teeth.

The artificial root and tooth are modeled after nature’s own design, so they feel natural. Colors are carefully matched to your existing teeth, so no one will know except you. This can help you restore your confidence as you start to feel better about your smile.

There are many great reasons to go with implants rather than crowns. People often worry about the cost, but it’s important to consider their durability. While crowns will have to be replaced every five to seven years, implants can last a lifetime with minimal care.

Before you sit down to have a crown fitted, learn more about the permanent option that’s safe, effective and attractive.