Many U.S. citizens suffer from tooth loss. This problem typically occurs due to tooth decay, gum disease, and oral injury. For many decades bridges and dentures were the only available options for replacing missing teeth. But nowadays, treatments like dental implants are available. After installing dental implants, you don’t have to deal with any messy adhesives or food restrictions like with other treatments. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, about 3 million Americans have installed dental implants. Which demonstrates that they’re among the most popular methods of replacing missing teeth.
Continue reading to discover six warnings that may indicate you need dental implants.
1. You have missing teeth
If you’re missing one or several teeth, you may be feeling anxious about smiling or eating in front of other people. Zirconia dental implants are a great solution to this problem. Dental implant surgery involves installing a metal frame in one of your jaws. An artificial tooth is then anchored to an implant, which allows it to stay in place. A dental implant can close the gap in your teeth providing both the natural appearance and proper function. Consult a dental specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implant surgery.
2. You have loose dentures
Loose dentures or partials are a common issue. Your dentures can become loose due to numerous causes, the most common of which is bone resorption. Bone resorption means that your gums start to lose their volume because they’re no longer supporting your teeth. Other reasons for loose dentures include significant weight loss and daily wear and tear. Dental implants are firmly anchored into your jawbone, which prevents them from shifting in your mouth or falling out. They also feel natural in your mouth. There’s no need to continue being anxious about your dentures falling out when you eat or speak.
3. You need to remove an infected tooth
If an infection damages your tooth, it can either be treated by specific procedures or in severe cases, it should be extracted. If your dental specialist told you that your tooth can no longer be saved, it may be time to install a dental implant. After your dead tooth is pulled out, a dental implant can substitute it. Dental implants are just as strong and durable as your real teeth. Hence, you won’t need to practice any special dental care. Simply regularly brush and floss your teeth, use a mouthwash and visit routine checkups and cleanings to preserve your artificial and natural teeth from getting damaged. Plus, dental implants are completely immune to tooth decay and cavities because they’re made of non-organic materials.
4. Your face starts to fall inwards
Unfortunately, dentures can lead to unsightly facial changes. Your jawbone needs to be stimulated by teeth to grow and develop. Dentures fail to do this, causing bone loss. The bone loss means that your jawbone is poorly stimulated due to missing teeth which makes it lose its volume and density. A dental implant can substitute your tooth root, providing the necessary support for your jawbone and promoting its growth.
5. You have a broken or cracked tooth
A cracked tooth can occur due to chewing of hard foods or items, defective filling, fall, sports injury, or a car accident. Most cases of cracks in teeth can be treated with root canal procedure, crown, or dental bonding. However, if you have a severely broken or cracked tooth, it may need to be pulled out to prevent further damage to your pulp and the potential risk of infection. A dental implant is the best possible option to replace your severely cracked or broken tooth. Dental implants provide long-term strength and durability and prevent unfortunate consequences of losing a tooth including shifting teeth and issues with bite alignment.