Implants and How They Benefit Your Mental and Physical Health

Implants and How They Benefit Your Mental and Physical Health

Post by : Dr. James Connan BChD GDC No. 230670 | 24 April 2025

Tooth loss can impact more than just your smile, it can affect how you eat, speak, feel, and even how you see yourself. Dental implants are widely recognised as the gold standard for tooth replacement, offering not only functional restoration but also significant mental and physical health benefits.

For patients in Surrey considering implants, it’s worth understanding how these long-term solutions support your overall wellbeing.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that’s surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, a crown, bridge, or denture is secured to the implant, restoring both the appearance and function of the missing tooth. According to the NHS, implants are a durable and effective option for adults with good oral health and sufficient bone to support the structure (NHS, 2023).

Understanding the Implant Process

Dental implants are placed in several stages. First, the dentist performs an assessment, including scans to ensure there’s enough bone to support the implant. If needed, a bone graft may be completed first. After the implant is placed, there’s a healing period before the final crown or prosthetic tooth is fitted. The full process can take several months but offers lifelong benefits when done properly.

For a detailed step-by-step overview of what’s involved in the implant procedure, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust offers an excellent patient guide.

Physical Health Benefits of Dental Implants

1. Improved Nutrition
   Tooth loss often leads to dietary changes, people avoid crunchy fruits, vegetables, nuts, or meats because of difficulty chewing. Over time, this can result in nutritional deficiencies. Dental implants restore full chewing ability, making it easier to enjoy a wide range of foods that support a balanced diet and overall health.
2. Bone Preservation
   When a tooth is lost, the jawbone beneath it can begin to shrink. This is known as bone resorption. Implants stimulate the jawbone, similar to natural teeth, helping maintain bone density and preventing facial collapse. The Oral Health Foundation notes that this bone-stimulating effect makes implants unique among tooth replacement options (Oral Health Foundation, 2023).
3. Better Oral Hygiene
   Unlike dentures, which can trap food and increase the risk of irritation and infection, implants are easy to clean, just like natural teeth. You can floss and brush them without the need for soaking or adhesives, making it easier to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Mental and Emotional Health Benefits

1. Restored Confidence
   A missing tooth, especially one at the front, can affect how people feel about their appearance. Implants look and feel natural, often boosting confidence and allowing individuals to speak and smile freely. The British Dental Association highlights the emotional distress many patients experience due to tooth loss, which can be significantly alleviated through implant treatment.
2. Reduced Social Anxiety
   Many denture wearers report anxiety about eating out or talking in public due to slipping dentures or speech difficulties. With implants, these worries are greatly reduced. Their fixed, stable design allows for worry-free speech and eating in social settings.
3. Long-Term Peace of Mind
   Implants are designed to last many years, often decades, with proper care. This stability means fewer future appointments for adjustments, no worry about losing or breaking removable appliances, and greater mental ease.

Choosing Implants in Surrey

If you’re based in Surrey and considering dental implants, it’s important to consult a qualified implant dentist who can assess your oral and bone health. At Surbiton Dental, we offer implant consultations and custom treatment plans to help restore your smile and wellbeing with confidence.

Book your implant consultation today with our experienced team: 📞 www.surbitondental.co.uk