3 Signs You Need Dental Implants

If you recently lost one or more teeth, our Columbus, OH, dental implant dentist may recommend that you pursue tooth replacement options. One such option, dental implants, consist of a titanium post, closely resembling a screw, that is surgically placed into the jawbone for added stability.

Over several months, the dental implant fuses with your jaw and acts much like a natural tooth root would. A dental crown is later added to complete the restoration and give both improved functionality and appearance. If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about missing teeth, you owe it to yourself to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gibson today.

Here are 3 key signs you should consider dental implants for your smile.

1. You’re Considering a Dental Bridge

Like the name suggests, a dental bridge “bridges” the gap left by a missing tooth. This oral appliance consists of an artificial tooth anchored by crowns on healthy adjacent teeth. In order to place a dental bridge, Dr. Gibson has to remove enamel from teeth on both sides of the gap. Once enamel is removed, it doesn’t grow back. Dr. Gibson prefers implants over bridges because they let you keep as much natural tooth enamel as possible.

A tooth implant is also sturdier than a bridge because it’s anchored to your jaw. This added stability helps you smile, talk, and eat with confidence. Dental implants are also long-lasting, which means you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful healthy smile for years to come.

If you are interested in having the best of both worlds, however, a bridge can be anchored by dental implants depending on your situation.

2. You Wear Dentures

Dentures sit on top of the gums and don’t prevent jawbone deterioration. A tooth implant, on the other hand, will exert pressure on your lower jawbone to stay healthy. In some cases, not having implants to restore missing teeth can lead to a loss of jawbone tissue and “facial collapse”. Once the jawbone deteriorates, it’ll become harder to refit dentures so you can chew without pain.

Unlike dentures, dental implants never slip. This means that you can eat, talk, and smile like you did before tooth loss. While false teeth have to be submerged in water or denture cleanser when they aren’t in your mouth, implants can be cared for like natural teeth.

3. You Lost One or More Teeth

After tooth extraction, Dr. Gibson will recommend an implant to help you maintain good oral health. Otherwise, your surrounding teeth will try to crowd inwards and complications can occur. The best time to get a dental implant is immediately after extraction.

Your teeth are held in place by roots and adjacent teeth. This means that when you lose a tooth, nearby teeth are likely to tilt toward the open space, loosen, and eventually fall out. Fortunately, dental implants support nearby teeth so you can continue smiling with confidence.

Dental implants also help you avoid:

• Bone loss in jaw
• Facial collapse
• Further tooth loss
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Feeling self-conscious about your smile

Make an Appointment Today

Our dental implant dentist in Columbus, OH, will be more than happy to help you explore your tooth replacement options, which include dental implants. If you’d like to request an appointment to start the conversation, call Gibson Dental at (614) 878-9562.

This blog post has been updated.