8 Warning Signs You Might Need Dental Implants

Experience a New Smile & Confidence with Smilodon Dental

Dental implants are titanium tooth roots placed in your jawbone to replace missing teeth. The titanium eventually pairs with your bone and acts like a permanent root. In addition to restoring your smile, dental implants help bolster your oral and health. As such, knowing when you may benefit from dental implants is essential. Let's explore eight signs that you may need dental implants.

Do You Have One or More Than One Tooth Missing?

Dental implants can be an excellent solution if you have one or more missing teeth. Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew food properly and your self-confidence. Implants provide a durable and long-lasting replacement, restoring both function and aesthetics. Unlike dentures, implants are fixed in place, offering a stable and secure fit that mimics natural teeth.

Do You Have Severely Damaged Teeth?

Teeth severely damaged by trauma, decay, or wear and tear may need to be extracted. When a tooth is beyond repair, a dental implant can replace it and restore your smile. Dental implants are made from biocompatible materials, ensuring they integrate well with your jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for a replacement tooth.

Are Your Dentures Loose or Poorly Fitting?

Loose and poorly fitted dentures are uncomfortable and often lead to irritation. Even if the dentures are properly fitted, they can shift and move, making eating or speaking difficult. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that eliminates adhesives and reduces the discomfort of removable dentures. Implants provide a secure fit, enhancing your comfort and confidence.

Are You Experiencing Bone Loss in the Jaw?

Bone loss in the jaw is a common consequence of missing teeth. The jawbone deteriorates when a tooth is lost due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain its structure and prevent further bone loss. This is essential for preserving the integrity of your facial structure and preventing a sunken appearance.

Do You Have Difficulty Chewing or Eating?

Dental implants can significantly improve your quality of life if you experience difficulty chewing or eating due to missing or damaged teeth. Implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy various foods without discomfort. This can also improve your overall nutrition and health by enabling you to eat a balanced diet.

Has Your Facial Structure Changed?

Missing teeth can change your facial structure, resulting in a sagging or sunken appearance. Dental implants help maintain the natural shape of your face by providing support to your jawbone and surrounding tissues. This can enhance your overall appearance and boost your self-esteem, making you feel more confident in your smile.

Do You Experience Chronic Dental Pain?

Chronic dental pain from damaged or decayed teeth can be debilitating. If other treatments have failed to alleviate your pain, dental implants may be the solution. Replacing problematic teeth with implants can eliminate pain and prevent further dental issues. Implants function like natural teeth, relieving chronic discomfort.

Do You Suffer from Infected Teeth or Gums?

If left untreated, infections in the teeth or gums can spread and cause serious health issues. Extraction and replacement with a dental implant may be necessary when a severe disease cannot be resolved with root canal therapy or other treatments. Dental implants provide a healthy and robust replacement that can help prevent future infections and maintain oral health.

Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation at Smilodon Dental in Nashville, TN

While dental implants are not the be-all and end-all of every dental problem, they can help with many. As such, knowing when and if dental implants can help is imperative. If you've experienced any of the previously discussed signs, the experts at Smilodon Dental will consult with you to identify whether dental implants can restore your smile, improve your oral health, and bolster your confidence. Contact us today.