8 Warning Signs You Need Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular, proven, and long-term solution for various dental issues. Whether you have missing teeth or dental damage, dental implants can improve your oral health and overall well-being. But how do you know when it's time to investigate and invest in dental implant treatment? 

Let's explore the benefits of dental implants, and identify some of the signs you might need them.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants, also called tooth implants or oral implants, are a cornerstone of modern dentistry. Dental implants are created with a three-part design; the implant, abutment, and prosthetic teeth attached to the implant. The placement of an implant involves a surgical procedure in which the implant (a small titanium post) is placed into the jawbone. The implant will act as an artificial tooth root to provide a sturdy support for for the placement of a dental crown, bridge, or denture, restoring both the appearance and function of missing teeth. 

Treatment varies based on the type of dental implant needed, whether a single tooth implant or a full mouth replacement. Dental implants require sufficient bone volume. If bone is lacking, an additional procedure called bone grafting may be required to regenerate the missing bone.

Signs You May Need Dental Implants 

1. Missing Teeth That Cause Gaps 

When you have missing teeth, the gaps can significantly impact both your bite and overall oral health. Tooth loss can cause surrounding teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and potential jaw pain. Dental implant restorations offer a seamless solution, replacing absent teeth with artificial teeth and providing a balanced and healthy smile.

2. Loose or Unstable Dentures

For patients struggling with loose removable dentures, eating and speaking can become unenjoyable tasks. Unsteady or slipping dentures can cause discomfort and frustration, limiting what foods you can eat and impeding your speech. Dental implants provide a permanent alternative to loose dentures, securely anchoring your artificial teeth. This eliminates the need for slippery adhesives and enhances your comfort, allowing you to eat and speak with ease.

3. Infected or Severely Damaged Tooth 

An infected or severely damaged tooth poses a serious risk of health complications, and should be addressed promptly. A root canal can be effective in some cases, and some cracked teeth can be repaired. But in severe cases, the tooth should be extracted to stop the infection from spreading. A dental implant restoration can then replace the affected tooth, offering a stable and lasting solution.

4. Dental Bridges That Require Replacement

While well made bridges in compliant patients can last a long time, they require the preparation of natural teeth for support. The process can be time-consuming and costly, particularly if the bridgework doesn't last as expected. Dental implants provide a long-lasting alternative that reduces the need for ongoing adjustments, providing a permanent tooth replacement solution.

5. Chronic Dental Pain or Abscess 

If you're suffering from chronic pain or persistent tooth abscesses, your dental health requires urgent intervention. A diseased tooth can not only disrupt your daily life; it can lead to more severe health issues. Dental infections can spread to the rest of your body if left untreated. By replacing problem teeth with dental implants, you can alleviate your pain and restore your oral health.

6. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking Due to Missing Teeth 

When you're missing teeth, you can have considerable challenges with chewing and speaking. This is because tooth gaps affect how the jaw and tongue function. Over time, these difficulties with absent teeth can lead to other issues, like poor nutrition or speech impediments.

Dental implants restore the structure of your mouth, permanently replacing your lost teeth and helping you chew and articulate again with ease. They seamlessly integrate with your natural teeth to help your mouth work in harmony again.

7. Loss of Jawbone Health

You can think of your teeth like the supporting architecture of your mouth. Missing teeth can compromise this structure and lead to jawbone resorption, where jaw tissue can’t regenerate. Dental implants act as an artificial tooth root, helping to preserve your remaining jawbone.

8. Cosmetic Concerns Affecting Confidence 

We've covered how dental implants improve overall health, but improving self-esteem is another major benefit. Because missing teeth can hurt more than just your oral health; they can also cost you your confidence. Teeth play not only a major role in our overall physical health, but also in our mental health.

Patients often report that missing or damaged teeth make them unwilling to smile, because they're embarrassed by the gaps. There can also be a perceived stigma against these patients, because people assume that they don't take proper care of themselves. Luckily, when you restore your dental aesthetics with cosmetic dentistry, a smile enhancement can be a life enhancement.

Dental implant treatment can not only improve the way you look; it can help you look at life in a whole new way again. By restoring your smile, we can help restore your confidence with a fully functional, natural-looking smile.

Find Out If Dental Implants Are Right For You

Now that you know the signs, you know that dental implants offer numerous benefits. As permanent fixtures, dental implant restorations offer a natural look and feel with aesthetic appeal, presenting a long-term solution to various dental challenges. Schedule your free consultation at a ClearChoice Dental Implant Center® today, and see if dental implant treatment is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How do dental implants compare to dentures?

Dental implants treatment is a permanent solution. They offer more stability and comfort than traditional dentures, which can be loose or require adhesives.

Is dental implant surgery painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during dental implant surgery, thanks to local anesthesia. Recovery typically involves mild discomfort that can be managed with medication.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are also not affected by cavities like natural teeth are.

Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?

It depends on the severity of the gum disease. Your dentist may recommend treating the gum disease first before proceeding with dental implants.

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