In sunny San Mateo, California, a big, bright smile is a common way to greet someone. But you may be wary of showing off your grin if your teeth aren’t just right. Whether you’ve lost some teeth after a fall while biking at Coyote Point or you’re dealing with severe tooth decay, dental implants can be a viable solution to give you a whole new look and appear even better than your natural teeth. Comparing photos of dental implants before and after, you’ll see the dramatic improvement in your smile.

If you’re interested in repairing your teeth with dental implants but not sure how they’ll compare with natural teeth, consider these six factors to help you decide so you can get back to your favorite activities. 

1. Durability

Dental implants are a reliable and safe tooth replacement solution. They’re considered a simple approach to replacing one or more teeth that are just as good as natural teeth. Dental implants use an artificial root system that’s often made of titanium. The titanium post fuses to the jaw bone and creates a stable base that secures the new teeth in place. When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime and, in some cases, outlast natural teeth. Unlike natural teeth, which can weaken over time due to wear, decay, or injury, dental implants maintain their strength and structure. This durability makes them an excellent option for individuals seeking both function and aesthetics in their smile.

2. Appearance

Thanks to advances in dental materials, artificial teeth made from ceramic or porcelain look more natural than ever. Since the implant itself, which may be made of titanium, is inserted into the gum and jawbone, it’s not visible once the crown, bridge, or implant denture is set on top. The visible dental appliances are carefully crafted to match the color, size, and shape of surrounding teeth or whichever look you choose.

3. Decay

Since dental implants contain a titanium root system and are formed of composite or other durable materials, they aren’t susceptible to cavities or decay. This is an advantage over natural teeth, which can decay due to excess bacteria, acid, sugar, and poor overall dental hygiene. However, while the implant itself is resistant to decay, the surrounding gums and tissues still require proper care. Gum disease can compromise the success of implants, so maintaining good oral hygiene remains critical.

4. Maintenance 

Good oral hygiene and dental care is important whether you have natural teeth or dental implants. Regular dentist visits, brushing, flossing, and rinsing are all recommended for both. However, the artificial teeth roots used for dental implants tend to be more damage- and decay-resistant, and they may have reduced risks compared to other common issues facing natural teeth. 

5. Costs

Dental implants are a permanent option for replacing broken or missing teeth but could be more costly than a solution like dentures. While they may require a greater initial investment, they are designed to last a lifetime with proper maintenance and care.

Keep in mind that permanent dental implants could end up being more cost-effective than the price of ongoing dental restoration or regular denture replacement. If you’re weighing the cost vs. the benefits of getting dental implants in San Mateo, consult your dental care team to discuss financing and payment plans for your unique situation.

6. Jawbone Health

Dental implants are inserted through the gum and fuse to the jawbone through a process known as osseointegration. The titanium implant acts as a root that can actually minimize the risk of bone loss by stabilizing the jawbone structure and reducing the risk of jaw bone shrinkage. This is an important advantage of dental implants over natural teeth that may be particularly significant for patients with a personal or family history of bone deterioration.

The Bottom Line

There are pros and cons to dental implants and natural teeth, and the only way to know for sure if implants are worth considering is to consult your local dentist. Your dental care team can help you look and feel your best so you can smile big during your next trip to the San Mateo Japanese Gardens or San Mateo Farmer’s Market.