When you have missing teeth, the longer you live with the gaps, the more risks you face for both your dental and overall health. While options such as bridges, and partial or full dentures help, you might find you require a more stable, permanent solution that restores full tooth function. This is where dental implants come in. Here we share signs you might need dental implants and why they are the ultimate tooth replacement option.
When Are Dental Implants Used?
Dental implants provide a permanent tooth replacement solution. They can be used to affix a single crown, bridge, partial or full set of dentures to posts inserted into your jawbone. The posts mimic your natural tooth roots, providing the closest thing to your healthy, natural tooth’s appearance and function. This is important because your roots are an essential part of jawbone health. Your roots provide the stimulation required to prevent bone loss, making dental implants the ultimate tooth replacement solution to maintain your oral and bone health.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?
Besides offering a natural-looking tooth replacement solution, there are several other benefits to dental implants, including:
- They allow you to enjoy a healthier diet
- You enjoy the same function as your natural teeth without the worries of adjustments, abrasions, sores, etc. that are common with ill-fitted dentures
- You can speak with confidence with natural feeling teeth
- Your dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth
- You’ll have confidence with a natural-looking smile
- You’ll support jawbone health
- You’ll avoid changes to your face shape related to jawbone loss
Signs You Might Need Dental Implants
Common signs it’s time to consider dental implants include:
You don’t have a solution for missing teeth
If you’ve lived with missing teeth and are looking for the best solution, dental implants are usually the right answer. It’s important to seek a solution as soon as possible because missing teeth are not only unsightly but leave gaps that can lead to several other dental issues, including:
- Shifting teeth
- Loosening teeth
- Tooth loss
- Increased risk for decay related to teeth shifting and creating crowding that makes it difficult to clean your teeth
- Gum disease
Ill-fitting dentures
If you find you are constantly dealing with discomfort and chewing issues related to your dentures, dental implants can rid you of improper-fitting prosthetics that make life difficult. Dentures that slip when you speak, feel loose, or rub against your gums can lead to issues including infected gums, bone loss, and malnutrition related to the inability to chew your food. If you’re done with trying to get your dentures to work for you, dental implants will provide stability, so you never have to worry about dentures again.
Your dental bridge is loose or damaged
Replacing dental bridges every five to 15 years gets expensive over a lifetime. If you are facing another dental bridge replacement, it might be worthwhile to discuss having them permanently affixed to dental implants. If you look at the cost of a new dental bridge and consider your age and how many more replacements you will likely face, you might find dental implants are actually a more affordable solution.
Your face looks sunken
Did you know that bone loss can change the appearance of your face? Most people don’t realize this. However, it is a common problem for denture wearers and people with dental bridges who have missing tooth roots . As mentioned, without tooth roots you lack the stimulation required to maintain bone health. As a result, you can experience jawbone shrinkage that creates a “sunken” look to your cheek area, making you look older.
Some people might develop a “witch chin” as their chin shifts forward. Dental implant posts maintain proper root function, so your bone is stimulated to prevent bone loss. Although you can’t reverse bone loss, you can prevent it from progressing. Also, while you do need a healthy jawbone to place the implants, jawbones can be rebuilt to support your implants.
You’re embarrassed to smile
Even when wearing dentures or a bridge, you can still feel uncomfortable with the appearance of your smile. This could be related to improper fit, inconsistent tooth colour, or noticeable metal or gaps in your bridge. There’s nothing wrong with considering implants for purely cosmetic reasons, to restore your confidence and help you live a better quality of life.
You’re not eating properly
Missing teeth, dentures and bridges can impact your ability to chew. If you find this is the case and you start avoiding healthy foods it can lead to malnutrition. Experiencing pain when you chew, being embarrassed to eat in public because of ill-fitting dentures, or having an old bridge that is coming loose can all interfere with both your enjoyment of the foods you love and getting enough vitamins and minerals to maintain your health. The moment your missing teeth lead to poor nutritional intake, you should speak to your dentist to discuss your tooth replacement options. Dental implants are the only option that ensures you won’t run into chewing issues in the future.
You can’t speak properly
Your teeth help you form sounds when you speak. If you have missing, misaligned or ill-fitting artificial teeth, you can find yourself slurring words, whistling when you pronounce “s” sounds, or simply finding your dentures moving when you talk, causing embarrassment. This can keep you from speaking not only socially but also at work or in school, interfering with your ability to pursue your dreams and find new opportunities. Also, when people find it hard to understand what you’re saying it can cause frustration, misunderstandings, and even avoidance. This can lead to social isolation which puts you at risk for depression and social anxiety. Dental implants are secure, ensuring your message comes across loud and clear.
When Do You Need Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the only missing tooth solution that mimics your natural teeth and roots for a natural smile, improved function and jawbone health. Whether you’re experiencing the above issues or are simply interested in a permanent tooth replacement solution, dental implants are worth discussing.
Call today to schedule an appointment at 905-775-5307 or click here to request an appointment.