Do I Need Dental Implants? 4 Signs That You Might Consider

Dental implants have become very popular over the years and as such, you probably know someone who has them. But what you may not know is when you might need a dental implant and what, if any, are the signs that may have you wondering to yourself “do I need dental implants?” 

Before answering your question, let’s take a quick look at what dental implants are and what’s involved in the dental implant procedure. 

Firstly, What Are Dental Implants Exactly?

While you may already know that implants are a trusted method of replacing missing teeth, you might not realise that the term ‘implant’ refers to a titanium post that is placed during dental implant surgery directly into the socket of the missing tooth. 

Over a short period of time, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone which in turn, acts as a foundation and structure for a variety of restorative devices including a crown, bridge or dentures. Unlike all other tooth replacement options, an implant replaces the tooth root.

So now you’re clear on what dental implants are, let’s look at the reasons patients are opting for dental implants to restore their smiles. 

Do I Need Dental Implants? 4 Signs That Indicate You Do

1. You have a missing tooth or teeth

If you are missing one or more teeth, then we’re here to help. Dental implants are a good option to replace missing teeth and to fully restore a smile. Once in place and topped with a restoration, an implant looks as lifelike as your natural teeth. 

The dental implant procedure is carried out in multiple stages and depending on the individual, can take between 4 and 9 months to complete. A short bout of dental implant surgery is required and this is carried out with a local anaesthetic and sedation if required. 

Hygiene is particularly important in these current times which is why hand sanitiser is placed all around our clinic to help ward off bacteria and prevent infection. Before dental implant surgery, the dental team will have used hand sanitiser and will be wearing protective clothing and face masks – every protective measure is taken at our No Gaps dental clinics to ensure strict compliance with hygiene and sanitation protocols. 

Once the implant site has healed in around 3 to 6 months, another short spell of dental implant surgery will be required to attach the abutment to the implant. 

The final part of the dental implant procedure is to attach the dental crown, bridge or dentures to the dental implant/implants to fully restore your smile. 

2. You have loose dentures 

Dentures that loosen and slip are a common complaint but fortunately, dental implants can help fix dentures that seem to have a mind of their own. As few as 4 to 6 implants can be placed during dental implant surgery to support dentures, keeping them securely in place. Just imagine not having to choose soft foods anymore and feeling confident to socialise and eat out with friends. That’s what implants can do for you. 

3. Your tooth has become infected

An infected tooth is extremely painful but sometimes our dentists can save it with root canal therapy. However, if you have been told that the infection is too severe and your tooth can’t be saved then an extraction will be necessary. 

The good news is that a dental implant can be placed following extraction and will serve as a replacement tooth. Because it’s anchored into the jawbone it will feel the same as your other teeth and will be equally as strong. You even care for it in the same way as you would your existing teeth with regular brushing and flossing. Although the dental implant procedure may take several months from start to finish, the wait for most people, is well worth it. 

4. You have a badly cracked or broken tooth

Accidents happen and when they do you could find yourself with a badly damaged tooth. It’s at this point that you’re likely to ask your dentist “do I need a dental implant?” Usually, in this scenario, there are only two options: a dental crown or an implant. 

Naturally, as dentists, we try to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible but depending on the severity of the damage it may be best to extract any remaining tooth and replace it with a dental implant. If your tooth is damaged beneath the gum line, then pulling out the tooth is probably your only option. 

A dental implant has the potential to last for decades provided it’s cared for and can be a more cost-effective solution long-term than a dental crown which will need replacing at some point. 

What’s the next step?

If you’re suffering from any of the 4 problems listed above and you’re still wondering “do I need a dental implant?” then why not come and speak to the friendly experienced dentists at No Gaps Dental. 

Our dentists will listen to your concerns, discuss your smile goals and will examine your mouth and other factors to determine if dental implants are the best treatment for you. 

With 15 dental clinics conveniently located around the Sydney Metro area, we’re easy to access. Furthermore, we’re able to keep prices down and also offer a variety of payment methods and finance plans to help spread the cost of your treatment. 

Don’t put up with missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures because you deserve better than that. Call us at (02) 8806 0227 to schedule a consultation today and let us give you the smile that you deserve.