A healthy smile is something that many people value. Losing a tooth has the potential to detract from the beauty of your smile. A missing tooth can also create oral health problems for you in the future.

Dentists have many tools available at their disposal when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. Before you decide between a bridge, dentures, or a dental implant, take the time to learn why an implant may be your best option.

1. Dental Implants Look Good

If you are concerned with the aesthetic value of your smile, replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant is advised. Implants look and feel like real teeth.

Because a dental implant is anchored to your jawbone, you can rest assured that the implant will stay in place over time. You will never have to worry about a dental implant slipping out of your mouth at an inopportune moment or shifting while you are eating.

You will likely find that no one suspects you have a fake tooth when you opt to invest in a dental implant to replace a missing tooth in the future.

2. Dental Implants Preserve Adjacent Teeth

Maintaining the health of your teeth is extremely important. Some of the tools used by dentists to replace a missing tooth can put the health of adjacent teeth at risk. For example, bridges are anchored to the tooth beside a missing tooth. The anchor point can become a gathering place for bacteria, accelerating any enamel damage and encouraging cavities to form.

Dental implants do not rely on any other teeth for support. This independence prevents dental implants from interfering with the overall health of your remaining teeth.

3. Dental Implants Are Convenient

Dental implants are one of the most convenient options available when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. Since the implant is anchored to your jawbone instead of adjacent teeth, the implant will function just like a natural tooth.

You can brush, floss, and care for a dental implant just as you would any of your remaining natural teeth. Other replacement options, like bridges and dentures, often require more intensive maintenance.

Specialized brushes and cleaning products must be used in order to preserve the integrity of a bridge or a set of dentures. Invest in dental implants if you don't want to make any significant changes to your oral care routine after replacing a missing tooth.

Contact a local dentist to learn more about dental implants.