Our oral health is important to our general health and lifestyle. When teeth go missing, rotten, or hurt, it can be puzzling to know what to do. Dental implants revolutionized reconstructive dentistry with a long-term replacement that is as natural as your own teeth in function and appearance.
We are convinced that patient education is key to empowering you to make informed choices regarding your oral health. This blog post outlines the nine signs you may need dental implants.
When Dental Implants are Needed?
Here are the nine main signs to use should you find yourself asking the question, “When should I consider dental implants?”:
#1: You’re Missing One or More Teeth
The strongest sign that you will need dental implants is missing teeth. If you are missing teeth as a result of decay, trauma, or disease, your best and best-working replacement is dental implants. Unlike bridges or dentures, implants replace both the crowns and root structures of missing teeth to prevent bone loss and preserve facial contours.
When considering when to place implants after extraction, many dentists recommend immediate placement when possible. This approach can preserve bone tissue and simplify the overall treatment process. It can be used to preserve bone and to reduce treatment time.
#2: You’re Losing Bone in Your Jaw
When teeth are missing, the jawbone no longer receives stimulation from regular chewing and biting, which is one of the signs that you may need dental implants. This causes bone resorption down the line, whereby your body begins to break down and reabsorb bone material. It can make you look sunken facially and make it more difficult to place implants later on.
#3: Your Dentures Feel Ill-Fitting or Discomfort
Some of those patients who’ve been wearing dentures for decades start wondering when to consider dental implants. If your sliding dentures are uncomfortable and causing ulcers, it is difficult to chew with them and require constant adjustments and adhesives; these are some that you would be better suited for dental implants.
Implant-supported dentures restore function and put an end to messy adhesives. They also preserve jawbone health and structure, which is impossible for traditional dentures to do. Numerous Rochester Hills dental patients discovered that a transition to implant-supported dentures dramatically improves quality of life.
#4: You Develop a Tooth That is Irreplaceable
The teeth occasionally become cracked beneath the gumline or to the root and cannot be restored with crowns or fillings. Implant and extraction are usually the best long-term option in this case.
#5: You Have Advanced Gum Disease
Periodontal disease has the capability to destroy bone and support tissues to a great extent and can lead to tooth loss. If you’ve already lost teeth to gum disease, it is one of your strongest indicators that you are a prime candidate for dental implants because your periodontal disease is under control.
#6: You Have a Failed Root Canal or Dental Bridge
Root canals are highly effective, with failures occurring through re-infection or fracture. Dental bridges will last for about 5 to 15 years and will need to be replaced. If these are not effective, dental implants are generally best in the long term.
#7: You Notice Changes in Your Facial Contour
If you’ve been missing teeth for some time, bone loss that occurs can make your facial appearance altered. Some changes that might be seen are:
- Sunken cheeks
- Thin lips
- A more defined jawline
- Wrinkles around the mouth
- A typical old appearance
Dental implants stimulate bone regrowth and save your own facial structure, and they are effective in correcting these conditions. Most individuals who get dental Implants in Rochester Hills attribute these cosmetic benefits as a top reason for treatment.
Sign #8: You’re Struggling to Enunciate Properly
Missing teeth or loose teeth can also affect your speech greatly by making you slur, whistle, or struggle to pronounce some words. These speech problems can make you lose confidence when working or interacting with people.
9. You’re Ready for a Permanent Solution
Maybe the greatest indication that you would benefit from dental implants is your desire for a permanent resolution to a dental issue.
Implants are more than 95% effective and can last a lifetime with good care. While more costly up-front compared to other treatments, patients generally report that long-term benefits to wallet and lifestyle make it more than worth it.
Conclusion: Moving to the Next Step with Dental Implants
If you’ve noticed a series of these symptoms in your own practice, it may be time to talk with a dental implant specialist. Here at Elegant Edge Dentistry, we provide detailed consultation to let you know for sure whether or not dental implants are right for your personal case.
Our Rochester Hills specialists are trained to create personalized treatment plans that address your individual needs and wishes. We recognize that deciding whether or not to consider dental implants is a significant decision, and we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need.
Don’t let oral health problems disrupt your life anymore. Simply contact Elegant Edge Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and discover how dental implants can improve your smile, regain your self-esteem, and improve your health.
