Natural teeth are anchored firmly to the jawbone and gums, connected to living nerves that transmit intricate sensory feedback about the texture and temperature of food. They also play a critical role in distributing chewing forces evenly across the jaw, supporting bone health. Dental implants, while the closest approximation to natural teeth, are ultimately artificial structures. They may lack the nuanced sensory capabilities of natural teeth, can be more vulnerable to external trauma, and, if oral hygiene is neglected, carry the risk of peri-implant gum disease over time.
Beyond their mechanical function in chewing, teeth contribute to clear speech, maintain facial structure and contours, and support digestive health and overall well-being. Tooth loss can destabilize the oral framework, causing adjacent teeth to shift into empty spaces or leading to resorption of the jawbone. Consequently, when faced with conditions like cavities or gum disease, the first course of action should be to explore treatments such as root canal therapy, restorative care, or periodontal treatment to save the tooth rather than resorting to extraction.
Yongtae Jung, director of Asan Jungplant Dental Clinic, observes, “As dental technologies become increasingly sophisticated, some patients overlook the importance of their natural teeth. Yet, until regenerative or cloning technologies emerge, no prosthetic or artificial substitute can fully replicate the function of natural teeth. Preservation should always be the priority. When implants are necessary, treatment must be carefully planned based on the patient’s condition, using precise diagnostic tools and extensive clinical experience.”
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
