1
Loss of functionality.
Tooth loss can begin to affect how you speak and what food choices you can make. People who are missing teeth often start slurring their words, making communication with others more difficult. Tooth loss can also weaken your bite and create challenges when you want to keep eating your favorite foods. This can limit proper nutrition and overall well-rounded health.
Dental implants act much like natural tooth roots and support porcelain crowns that mimic natural teeth, and both act to restore functionality where limits may have previously been.
2
Increased risk of oral infection.
A gap between teeth can act as a “food trap,” making it hard to reach food particles and other debris when you brush and floss. An effective oral hygiene regimen can keep your gums and teeth healthy, and possibly reverse the symptoms of gingivitis, which is an early form of periodontal (gum) disease.
People with missing teeth have an increased risk of infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. While periodontal disease is the primary reason people over the age of 35 lose their teeth, there are other common sources of tooth loss that can contribute to gaps in the mouth. This can lead to tissue loss and other dental health problems as well.
Dental implants offer the most comprehensive health benefits out of all restorative options. Let us help you keep your well-being on the right track.
3
Weakening of the jawbone.
Your tooth roots help keep your jaw strong by transmitting the force and energy of your daily routine, including chewing and speaking, to the bone that holds your teeth in place. Just like a muscle, the jaw’s tissue is strained and then repaired, making it stronger.
When you are missing teeth, this process cannot take place and therefore the jaw begins to lose its shape, and your cheeks can sag. Implants are the only solution that protects the jaw from further bone loss.
4
Premature wrinkling.
As your jaw begins to lose shape, the skin around your jawline loosens and starts to hang. This can cause premature wrinkling, which hides the shape of your jaw, makes you appear older, and detracts from the completed look of your smile.
By protecting the jaw, dental implants can help prevent this issue. If you have already suffered from bone loss, our Oral & Maxillofacial team in the Lowcountry have the tools, solutions, and options to bring back your winning smile.
5
Reduced self-confidence.
To walk outside every day and publicly interact with friends, family, and coworkers takes a strong confident self. If there are gaps in your mouth due to tooth loss, an element of embarrassment keeps you from smiling. We can change that, and much more.
Tooth loss can cause a profound change in our social lives and how we feel when there are people around us. It can impact your love live and your friendships, and can ultimately change how you feel about yourself. We all deserve more confidence and a better life.
6
Increased likelihood of pain.
Missing teeth expose these openings to the elements. Our nerves travel from our teeth, through the sockets, to the rest of our body, and an empty gap can give reason to greater sensitivity in the affected area. Discomfort, irritation, and pain can result.
When teeth are missing the remaining teeth have no opposite number to rest on or bite against. The remaining teeth may start to over erupt and cause damage to the opposing gum. Not only does this cause gum and facial pain, but with time the situation causes stress at the jaw joint leading to chronic headaches.
Dental implants can help protect these areas by replacing the tooth root and providing support for a natural-looking crown.
7
Anxiety and unhappiness.
Having a genuine smile you outwardly display raises the happiness factor twofold. We associate smiling and laughter with positive energy, and it becomes infectious to be around. Once you smile towards others, there’s a feeling of ease and comfort that reduces stress dramatically.
How can we be happy when we are afraid to smile? It’s no wonder tooth loss is associated with a greater risk of anxiety and depression. When there’s a gap in your smile your self-confidence takes a back seat as well. At our Lowcountry office, Dr. Dillard and his expert team are ready to put you back in the forefront of feeling positive again.
Dental implants are long-lasting, cost-effective, and look unbelievably genuine. Doesn’t that already want to make you smile?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of dental implants compared to dentures?
There are so many reasons you might prefer dental implants over dentures for your smile restoration needs! The top 7 advantages of dental implants compared to dentures are:
- Dental implants are permanent.
- Dental implants look and act like your natural teeth.
- Unlike dentures, dental implants can prevent jaw bone loss. Dentures can actually accelerate bone loss.
- Implants don’t need to be removed for cleaning.
- Implants don’t require messy adhesives.
- Dental implants will never slip out of place.
- Implant recipients don’t need to worry about the discomfort and embarrassment of ill-fitting dentures.
How long do dental implants usually last?
If you follow our post-operative guide, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and attention. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting Dr. Dillard for your regular dental check-ups and cleanings. It’s best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, and nylon-coated floss to clean your teeth and prevent scratching your implant.