It may feel like the odds of having a tooth knocked out while playing sports are low enough that you don’t have to worry about it happening. The truth is, though, that about five million teeth are lost every year as part of sports-related accidents. So what can you do if you end up taking a blow to the face that leaves you with empty space in your smile? In many circumstances, dental implants could be the perfect solution.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a modern alternative to traditional dentures and bridges for replacing missing teeth. They’re made up of three main components: the post, the abutment, and the restoration. The post is shaped like a screw and forms a bond with the jawbone. The restoration (which might refer to a crown, a bridge, or a denture depending on the extent of tooth loss) is attached to the post(s) via the abutment, which is a connector piece made out of metal.
Why are Dental Implants a Good Choice for Athletes with Missing Teeth?
Dental implants have several advantages that can make them worth considering for anyone who plays sports:
- Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently anchored to the jawbone. Not only does this mean they’ll never slip out of place, but you won’t have to take them out of your mouth before a big game.
- Many patients report that their dental implants feel just like their natural teeth once they have finished bonding with the jawbone. As such, you won’t have to worry about your new teeth causing any discomfort that could affect your performance.
- Dental implants are very natural-looking, which can help give your confidence a boost both on and off the field.
- Good maintenance can help dental implants last for decades, making them an excellent long-term solution for anyone with missing teeth.
How Will You Know If Dental Implants Are the Best Choice for Your Smile?
Notably, dental implants can be used to replace any number of teeth. As such, they can be a viable option no matter how many teeth you may have lost while playing sports.
On the other hand, you may not be able to get dental implants if you have gum disease or if you have experienced bone loss in your jaw. The good news is that such issues are treatable and can be addressed with certain preliminary treatments.
You’ll need to have a consultation with your dentist to find out if dental implants are a good fit for your smile. Reach out today to set up an appointment so that you can restore your grin and get back in the game!
About the Practice
At Boerne Dental Center, we believe that patients should be treated like individuals and not just numbers. We always take the time to learn about your goals and your overall situation before recommending specific services. We can perform various types of oral surgery in-house, and we can complete the entire dental implant procedure under a single roof. To schedule a consultation at our office, visit our website or call (830) 249-2045.