Around 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth, and a staggering 178 million have lost at least one. Tooth loss can happen for many reasons, but most often, it’s caused by tooth decay or gum disease. While dentures used to be the only option available for those with missing teeth, dental implants have quickly become the preferred treatment. Here are eight conditions where dental implants are an ideal solution:
1. Periodontitis (Gum Disease)
This is a condition in which the gums pull away from the teeth, causing pockets to form. Dentists do not fit those with periodontitis for dentures because dental implants would be the most effective option by far. This is because dental implants closely mimic natural teeth, and they’re the only dental solution that will prevent your gums from receding further.
2. Advanced Bone Loss
Over time, the bone supporting the teeth begins to shrink and disappear due to gum disease. This loss of bone makes it difficult for dentures to fit correctly and support a dental implant bridge. Dental implants in Gainesville are the best solution for restoring your smile if you’re dealing with jaw bone loss.
3. Edentulism (Complete Tooth Loss)
Dental implants are the best option available when you’re suffering from edentulism, the state of not having natural teeth. While dental bridges and partials can be used in this situation, dental implants are the most natural-looking and feeling dental solution available.
4. Root Canal Failure
If you’ve had root canal therapy, dental implants can help restore your dental health. Dental implants are the only dental solution that will not be affected by the weakened dental structure created during root canal therapy.
5. Congenital Defects
Dental implants are especially beneficial for people born missing some or all of their teeth. If you were born without some dental structure, dental implants mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. The dental implants can also anchor dental appliances such as braces or other dental enhancements, making dental implants the solution of choice.
6. Trauma to the Mouth (Teeth Injury)
Dental implants are the dental solution of choice for dental injuries. These dental enhancements require no special care, which is beneficial after dental trauma. Dental implants are also the best solution for dental reconstruction surgery after a severe injury.
7. Excessive Wear and Tear
Dental implants can restore dental function for those who have experienced dental wear and tear. This dental restoration is often more efficient than a dental bridge because dental implants preserve a healthy dental structure, which dental bridges do not.
8. Cavities and Decay
Dental implants are the dental solution of choice in most cases of dental decay. While dental bridges or partials can be used, dental implants provide the most dental function in this situation. They are stronger than traditional dental bridges, and there is no risk of decay around dental implants because they help the dental structure remain healthy.
If you are suffering from any of the above conditions, you should consider dental implants as your solution. However, your dentist may instantly disqualify you for the process if you:
- Smoke and chew tobacco
- Have uncontrolled diabetes
- Have uncontrolled hypertension
- Take medication that can cause excessive bleeding
- Have a history of cancer or tumor growth, especially head and neck cancers
Dental implants are an ideal dental solution for those with tooth loss. These dental enhancements will restore dental health, have a natural appearance and require no special care.