Are you missing one or more teeth? Dentures and dental bridges are no longer your only cosmetic dentistry options. Instead, schedule a dental appointment to discuss dental implant treatment.

The increasing prevalence of oral disorders is powering the demand for dental implants. Between 2023 and 2030, the industry could grow by 6.7%. More people are choosing dental implants to restore their smiles.

Not sure if dental implants in SC are right for you? Read on to discover the signs they're ideal for improving your smile.

Missing Teeth

One of the top reasons patients choose dental implant treatment is to replace one or more missing teeth.  About 17% of adults ages 65 and up have lost all of their teeth. Another 26% have lost eight or fewer teeth.

Neglecting to fill the gap left by a missing tooth can affect your oral health. For example, the gap will give bacteria, food particles, and saliva more space to hide. These components can mix together to form plaque.

Plaque is the tacky, clear substance that causes cavities. Unfortunately, a gap in your smile can cause teeth to shift toward the gap. Your teeth will appear crooked.

Crooked teeth are more difficult to brush and floss. Your risk of developing plaque and tooth decay will increase if you're missing a tooth.

Over time, plaque can form below your gum line. You could develop gingivitis (gum disease). Symptoms include:

• Loose teeth
• Partial dentures no longer fitting
• Sensitive teeth
• Tender, swollen, or red gums
• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Foul-smelling breath
• A change in how teeth fit together (malocclusion)
• Pain when chewing
• Gums that pull away from your teeth

Gingivitis can become painful. If it progresses without treatment, you'll lose even more teeth. Periodontal disease (the advanced form of gum disease) will increase your risk of lung disease, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.

A missing tooth can impede your ability to chew. Severe tooth loss can affect your ability to eat fruits, vegetables, and meats. You could develop a nutritional deficiency.

You may develop a lisp if you're missing a tooth. Difficulty communicating may make you feel uncomfortable in social settings.

Your self-esteem could plummet, affecting your mood and mental health. You may start smiling less, reducing serotonin production. Serotonin is a feel-good neurotransmitter that affects your mood and other processes.

All that because you lost a tooth! If these issues sound familiar, visit your Fort Mills dentist. They'll determine if you're an ideal candidate for treatment.

Shifting Dentures

An ill-fitting dental appliance can become bothersome and embarrassing. Remember, dental bridges and dentures aren't the only treatment options available. Instead, consider dental implant treatment in SC.

Dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth. They're not usually covered by dental insurance (while dentures and bridges are). Fortunately, the upfront cost of your dental implants could prove worthwhile in the long run.

Your dental implant will prevent future dental issues. You can avoid bone and gum loss or tooth shifting. Avoiding these oral health issues could save you money and stress later.

Dental implants usually last 30 years or longer (with proper care). Dentures and bridges, on the other hand, need replacement every five to 10 years. You can replace the dental crown if it sustains damage, but the implant will remain intact.

Instead of wasting time and money on these dental appliances, invest in your oral health. Dental implants are a long-lasting, more comfortable solution for missing teeth.

Broken or Cracked Teeth

In some cases, you can repair a damaged tooth with restorative dentistry procedures. If it's beyond repair, your dentist may recommend a dental implant instead.

They'll extract the damaged tooth before placing your dental implant. The implant will ensure long-lasting durability and stimulation.

Recent Tooth Extraction

If a tooth infection is severe, your dentist may recommend removing it. A dental implant can fill in the gap to restore your smile.

Your dentist will confirm that you have enough healthy jawbone to maintain a dental implant. If your jawbone is soft or thin, they may recommend a bone graft.

During the procedure, your oral surgeon will cut into your gums to expose your jawbone. They'll drill a hole into the bone to insert the implant post. The post looks like a metal screw.

Over a few months, the implant will become integrated with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This process (meaning "combining with the bone") ensures the implant's stability. The implant will function as the artificial tooth's root.

Next, your surgeon will place a metal extender (the abutment) onto the implant. The abutment will connect the dental crown and implant. The crown will look like a natural tooth.

Your dentist can match the crown's color to your existing teeth to ensure it appears natural. You'll restore the appearance and functionality of your smile.

Less Facial Structure

Your jawbone requires stimulation. Without it, the jawbone can shrink and decline in mass. This bone loss can change your facial structure, making you appear older.

Dentures won't stimulate your jawbone. Remember, an implant is placed into the jawbone. It can prevent bone loss by functioning as a natural tooth root.

Tired of Adhesives

If you wear dentures, you'll need to use adhesives to keep them in place. Applying adhesive can get messy or become inconvenient.

You don't have to worry about adhesives if you choose dental implant treatment. The implant will remain stable within your jawbone. It won't shift.

You'll need to remove your dentures to clean them before plaque forms. You can avoid this inconvenience if you choose dental implant surgery. Instead, you'll brush and floss your teeth as you normally do.

Request Dental Implants in SC Today

Missing a tooth can affect your appearance and oral health. Instead of dentures or dental bridges, consider dental implant treatment. Choosing dental implants in SC will improve your smile without complications.

Want to discuss your treatment options with your family dentist? Our team at Core Dentistry believes in making our patients feel comfortable by treating them like family.

We hope to improve your health and quality of life by focusing on your oral health. Contact us now to schedule your dental appointment.