Dental implants are the only tooth replacement that protects your oral health in addition to enhancing your smile. Many patients are unsure how to know when they need dental implants, or why they should choose implants over another restoration such as dentures.
Explore our guide to learn about three clear signs that indicate you may need implants.
You’re Missing a Tooth
Many dentists will recommend dental implants as soon as you lose a tooth. They’re the only permanent tooth replacement and provide the most benefits for your oral health. However, some patients decide to choose a cheaper or faster option, like removable dentures. Even worse, some patients may choose to not treat their tooth loss at all.
While the desire to save time and money is understandable, you’ll likely end up losing it later anyway if you avoid choosing implants. Living with missing teeth can lead to a range of serious health issues that will require extensive treatment. Dental implants help to prevent these issues upfront, ensuring your smile will remain healthy and beautiful for years to come.
That’s why dentists like Dr. Kovacevic in Greensburg, PA consider dental implants to be the safest and most effective tooth replacement. As a Diplomate of the ICOI (International Congress of Oral Implantologists), he has the experience and education to restore your smile.
Your Jawbone Is Shrinking
One of the primary consequences of missing teeth is that your jawbone begins to deteriorate. This occurs because when you lose a tooth, that portion of your jawbone no longer has a source of stimulation. As a result, you’ll begin to rapidly lose bone tissue and your jaw will weaken. This can lead to shifting teeth, sagging skin, premature wrinkles, and more.
Unfortunately, other restorations such as dentures or bridges don’t address this problem. Only dental implants can replace your tooth from root to crown, through the unique process of osseointegration. This is when the titanium implant fixture fuses with your jawbone, forming a secure bond that will stimulate your jaw just like a natural tooth would.
If your jawbone is beginning to lose density, it’s a good idea to think about getting dental implants. The longer you wait, the worse your jaw will deteriorate, to the point where it will become difficult to support implants and you’ll likely need a full-mouth reconstruction.
To save yourself from these future hassles, dentists like Dr. Derek Hoffman in Lincoln, NE recommend getting implants as soon as you lose a tooth. This will help to preserve your appearance and save you from lots of unnecessary dental procedures later on.
Your Dentures Are Uncomfortable
While dental implants are typically the first recommendation for replacing teeth, traditional dentures remain a popular choice. However, beyond the obvious drawbacks mentioned above, many patients find their dentures don’t fit right. This can cause your dentures to slide around in your mouth or fall out entirely, causing difficulty eating and social embarrassment. In addition, some patients may not wear their dentures often enough if they feel uncomfortable.
Ill-fitting or loose dentures will only cause further problems with your teeth. Though they can be relined in some cases, they’re not always fixable. That’s why dentists like Dr. Majors in Bryan, TX recommend implant-supported dentures. Whether you wear partial dentures or a full-arch denture, they can be secured with four or more implants for a stable restoration.
Implant-supported dentures are anchored to your jaw, so they’ll never slide out of place. They’re also much easier to clean and they stimulate your jaw to promote healthy bone growth. Best of all, your implants will last a lifetime with proper care.
Get Dental Implants For a Healthier Smile
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants offer benefits that no other restoration can match. While other options are available, they’ll only improve your appearance without preserving your health.
Dental implants are the only permanent solution for missing teeth, and the only tooth replacement that prevents jawbone deterioration. They’re also resistant to decay, which will help you avoid gum disease and further tooth loss. By replacing missing teeth with dental implants, you can enjoy all the benefits of a healthy, stunning smile for the rest of your life.