Dealing with teeth problems is often a painful period for many people. Cracked or broken teeth, especially in a part of your mouth that’s visible, make it tough to feel confident when smiling.
Getting dentures is not always a welcome option as they’re messy, and taking them out often for teeth cleaning is stressful. This is where a more permanent solution like dental implants comes in.
This article will answer your specific questions like: How do I know when to get dental implants? What are the top signs to look out for? How much does a front tooth dental implant cost? How long do they last?
Here’s what you need to know.
Signs To Know You Need Dental Implants
Dental implants may be the solution you need to your teeth issues. Check out these tell-tale signs.
Some of Your Natural Teeth Are Missing
The gaping hole a missing or cracked tooth leaves in the mouth can become a real pain. Not only is it difficult to eat, opening your mouth can make you feel less confident.
Sometimes, it may be our careless habits that cause the missing teeth. Other times, it may result from an accident or health condition.
Whatever the case, dental implants fill the hole, and they also feel just like natural teeth. They improve your dentition and help you eat better.
You Have Loose Fitting Dentures
Many people often do not like to deal with dentures when it comes to their dental health. Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that help replace missing teeth.
But the constant need to take them out for cleaning and the fact that they are often ill-fitting discourages many people from using them. If you’re struggling with a denture that keeps falling out when you talk or eat, getting a dental implant might be a good idea.
You’re Starting to Have a Sunken Facial Appearance
People who wear dentures continue to experience bone loss as they grow older. This is because dentures do not encourage bone growth (unlike dental implants do.) So, as time passes, the bones continue to deteriorate, causing the face to look sunken or caved in.
Dental implants help bone tissue to grow in the jaw. This gives its users a more healthy facial appearance.
You’re Finding it Difficult to Eat
Eating with a missing tooth or cracked tooth is quite difficult. Your roots are exposed, leaving your nerve endings at the mercy of harsh food or even teeth. This difficulty in eating makes you enjoy your food even less. This could lead to a lack of appetite and other medical challenges.
Again, it can place significant strain on the rest of your teeth when you chew. This could lead to more oral health problems like gum disease.
You Have an Infected Tooth
This is a very unpleasant situation to be in, which may lead to having a dental extraction. Leaving the tooth space open after a dental extraction can lead to other infections and problems.
Dentists often recommend getting dental implants to fill up the space. It also helps avoid the risk of decay for neighboring teeth with no problems.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants is one reason some people shy away from getting dental implants. There are a wide variety of dental implant procedures, which determines what each would cost.
Usually, the dental practice that would conduct your implant procedure has costs for each element that makes up your procedure. Some of these elements include:
- Dental exam
- Removing problem teeth
- Installing dental implant(s)
- Placing abutment hardware
- Fabricating dental crown
- Placing dental crown
On average, a dental implant should cost between $3000 to $4000 per tooth. For a more accurate cost, consult with your dental practice.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental Implants should last a lifetime for many people. It becomes a permanent fixture inside your mouth, and you can’t take it out like dentures.
The implant is placed directly into your jawbone, which is an artificial root. Then, the prosthetic tooth is attached to the implant. That part is called a tooth crown.
Dental implants have been recorded to have a 90 – 95% success rate. Sometimes, however, a situation called implant failure occurs. This can happen for many reasons. Some of them include; poor maintenance, insufficient bone, smoking, and some medical conditions.
Take Steps Quickly!
If you’re starting to consider getting a dental implant, it’s best to discuss it with your dental hygienist quickly. Patients who use dentures have their jawbone degrade fast. Adequate jawbone is essential for a successful dental implant.
Before it’s too late, find out your best dental implant options and make your smile look great again!
Conclusion
In conclusion, recognizing the early signs that you may need dental implants can help you address dental issues promptly and regain a healthy smile. These signs may include tooth loss or extraction, difficulty chewing or speaking, shifting or loose teeth, gum disease or infection, and deteriorating jawbone. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a dental professional who can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Dental implants provide a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring oral function, and improving overall oral health. Don’t delay seeking dental care if you notice these early signs, as early intervention can prevent further complications and help you achieve a confident and functional smile.
FAQsWhat are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, typically titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They serve as a stable foundation for prosthetic teeth, such as crowns or dentures, to replace missing teeth.
How do I know if I need dental implants?
Signs that you may need dental implants include tooth loss or extraction, difficulty chewing or speaking, noticeable gaps in your smile, loose or shifting teeth, and jawbone deterioration. Consulting with a dentist is essential for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendation.
Can anyone get dental implants?
Most individuals who are in good overall health and have sufficient jawbone density can be candidates for dental implants. However, a thorough examination by a dental professional is necessary to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Are dental implants a permanent solution?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth replacement. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, they can last a lifetime. However, the prosthetic teeth attached to the implants may need to be replaced or adjusted over time due to wear or changes in your oral health.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
The dental implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you experience minimal discomfort during the surgery. Some soreness or discomfort may be expected after the procedure, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your dentist will provide appropriate instructions for post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery process.