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8 Signs You May Need Dental Implants

Dental Implant Dentist Lebanon In

Concerned that you may need dental implants? Want to explore your treatment options beyond dentures? Our dental implant dentist in Lebanon, IN, is ready to help! Dr. Lee would be more than happy to determine if you’re a candidate for dental implant treatment. Not to mention, he has many years of experience helping to restore patient smiles after tooth loss.

In the meantime, here are the top eight signs you may benefit from the dental implant procedure.

1. Missing One or More Teeth

Losing teeth can be a distressing experience, impacting both your appearance and your ability to chew and speak. Dental implants can replace one or more missing teeth, providing a natural-looking and functional solution. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, ensuring stability and preventing the shifting that can occur with other tooth replacement options.

2. Difficulty Chewing or Eating

Missing teeth or unstable dentures can make chewing and eating difficult, often leading to dietary restrictions and digestive issues. The dental implant procedure restores the full functionality of your mouth, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry. With implants, you can chew confidently and effectively, improving your overall nutrition and health.

3. Bone Loss in the Jaw

Tooth loss can lead to bone loss in the jaw, a process known as resorption. Dental implants can help stimulate bone growth and prevent further bone loss by providing the necessary stimulation that natural tooth roots typically offer. This not only preserves the structure of your jaw but also supports the integrity of your facial features.

4. Sunken-In Facial Appearance

Missing teeth and bone loss can cause the face to appear sunken or aged, leading to a decrease in self-esteem and confidence. One of the benefits of dental implants is that they help maintain the structure of your face by supporting the jawbone and preventing the collapse that can occur with tooth loss. This gives you a more youthful and natural appearance.

5. Gum Disease

Advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, is a leading cause of tooth loss. If you have lost teeth due to gum disease, dental implants can be part of your restorative treatment plan. Proper management of gum disease is essential before implant placement to ensure the longevity and success of the implants.

6. Infected or Severely Damaged Teeth

Teeth that are beyond repair due to infection or severe damage may need to be extracted and replaced. Dental implant treatment offers a reliable and durable replacement option, restoring both function and aesthetics. Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.

7. Desire for a Permanent Solution

Many people prefer a permanent solution to replace missing teeth rather than a removable option like dentures. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, offering a long-term solution that mimics the function and appearance of natural teeth. This permanence makes implants an attractive option for many patients.

Related: Boost Your Confidence with Dental Implants →

8. Difficulty Speaking

Missing teeth or unstable dentures can affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain words or causing slurred speech. Dental implants can help you speak more clearly and confidently by providing a stable foundation for your teeth. This improvement in speech can significantly enhance your communication skills and overall quality of life.

Book a Dental Implant Consultation

Dr. Dwight B. Lee is your trusted dental implant dentist in Lebanon, IN. To book a dental implant consultation, please call Dwight B. Lee Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (765) 482-2400. You may also request an appointment online and a member of our helpful team will reach out to you soon.