How do I know if I need a dental implant?

If you read a dozen different articles about dental implants, you will see many different opinions and also some common threads, warning signs or indicators which you should pay attention to. Many of those signs may lead one to believe that they need a dental implant, but that may not be the case at all. Often, there can be simple, non-or-less-invasive fixes for dental issues which fall far short of a dental implant.

Before I share with you things to look out for, it is important for you to listen to what your body, in this case your mouth, teeth and face, is telling you. Then, if you sense something is out of kilter, you need to come in for a consultation and share your concerns with us.

Dr. Derek Carson & Dr. Mike Acasio

Only professional dentists like Dr. Derek Carson and Dr. Mike Acasio, at Carson & Acasio Dental Group, can evaluate your particular situation. Remedial care is based on a number of factors, including your overall health, the extent of the issue, your goals and desires, your age, and your budget.

It is their job to provide you with treatment options and recommendations, and then you can make an informed choice that you are comfortable with.

Let’s be perfectly clear … our dentistry treats a variety of dental issues … from routine cleanings to complete mouth restorations. We are very qualified to perform the most difficult dental procedure, which an implant is. But we are not a dental implant factory,

That said, dental implants are a very popular and effective solution when indicated and have a nearly 100% success rate. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentists, over 3 million Americans have dental implants … that’s 1% of the population.

Now, let’s draw our attention to things you should look out for. Again, each of these things, by themselves, do not mean you are in need of a dental implant. What they do mean, without a doubt, is that you do need to come in for a consultation.

Signs that you need to pay us a visit:

1 You are missing one or more teeth.

If you're dealing with one or more missing teeth, there's no need to feel embarrassed any longer. There is a solution, and we’re here to assist you. Dental implants are an excellent and widely used choice to address your missing teeth issue. A dental implant will seamlessly fill the gap, providing a natural look that blends perfectly with your existing smile. You won’t have to worry about it appearing artificial or mismatched.

Whether you need one tooth replaced or several, Carson & Acasio Dental Group can help. Just reach out to us at to book your initial appointment, and we’ll evaluate if dental implants are the right solution for you.

2 You have loose dentures or loose partials.

Many individuals struggle with loose dentures and partials, and it’s unfortunate that patients have to deal with this issue. Fortunately, there are excellent alternatives, such as dental implants. 

Dental implants can effectively address the problem of dentures that become loose throughout the day. You can finally feel confident while eating or speaking, without worrying about your dentures slipping. Additionally, implants are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth. There's no need to endure the various challenges that come with loose dentures any longer. Consider opting for dental implants today!

3 A tooth has become infected and you need it pulled.

If a tooth gets infected, it can often be treated with certain methods, but sometimes extraction is necessary. If your dentist has informed you that the infection is severe enough that the tooth cannot be saved, it might be time to consider a dental implant.

After the infected tooth is taken out, the dental implant will act as your new tooth. It’s designed to be strong and resilient, just like your natural teeth. The great news is that you won’t need to change your oral hygiene routine for dental implants; you can care for them just as you would your regular teeth—by brushing and flossing regularly.

4 You have a loose bridge.

A dental bridge that is not securely in place can lead to similar issues as a loose denture or partial. However, dental implants can help you avoid a lot of troubles if you're dealing with an unstable bridge!

5 You notice visible changes in your jaw structure.

When people opt for dentures, it can sometimes result in a sunken appearance of the face.

So, why do dentures create that hollow look around the mouth and chin? This happens because dentures fail to stimulate the jawbone, which is essential for promoting the growth of vital tissue. As a result, the jawbone doesn't recognize the presence of dentures and continues to deteriorate over time, leading to further bone loss as you age.

The effective solution to this issue is dental implants. Unlike dentures, implants stimulate the jawbone when they are placed, especially during activities like chewing, helping to maintain the integrity of your facial structure. With dental implants, you’ll enjoy a look and feel that closely resembles your natural teeth. Plus, your smile will remain just as vibrant, ensuring that the implants fit seamlessly into your appearance.

6 You are sick and tired of dealing with messy dental adhesives and dental care.

If you've ever worn dentures, you're familiar with the routine—removing them for cleaning and sometimes using adhesive to keep them secure. For many, that process can be a hassle.

For those who prefer to skip the mess of denture adhesives and seek a more straightforward approach to dental care, dental implants are an excellent solution.

As previously mentioned, maintaining your dental implants doesn't require a different oral hygiene routine than what you're used to. Simply brush and floss your implants just like you do with your natural teeth, ideally 2 to 3 times a day.

However, if you tend to grind or clench your teeth, known as bruxism, this can be a cause for concern. Bruxism can potentially damage the crown placed on your implant. To prevent this issue, our dentists might suggest wearing a bruxism night guard while you sleep. We may also offer guidance to help you manage teeth grinding or clenching during the day, ensuring your dental crowns stay safe.

7 You have a broken tooth or severely cracked tooth.

If you have a severely cracked or broken tooth, your treatment options may be limited. Typically, you’ll have two choices: a dental crown or a dental implant. 

Our priority will be to keep as much of your natural tooth as we can. However, if the damage is extensive, it might be more advisable to remove the remaining portion of the tooth and proceed with a dental implant.  If the break occurs below the gum line, extraction could be your only viable option. Additionally, if the cracked tooth has harmed the pulp, you may run the risk of infection. One of our dentists will assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable solution.  Ultimately, a dental implant can offer you lasting strength and durability for many years to come.

8 You are insecure about your smile due to dentures, partials or a bridge.

For many people, wearing dentures, partials, or a bridge can lead to feelings of insecurity about their smile. Nobody wants to feel embarrassed about how they look. You have every right to take pride in your smile, and dental implants could be the solution you need.

Dental implants can transform your smile in remarkable ways. Once they are placed, you’ll find a newfound confidence in your appearance. Say goodbye to the days of hiding your mouth or avoiding smiles and laughter around your friends.

9 You have difficulty chewing food due to missing teeth.

Just talk to anyone with a missing tooth—it's not easy when you’re trying to enjoy your favorite meals. Whether you need to be cautious about biting and chewing or you have to dodge certain foods altogether, it can be frustrating when hunger strikes and all you want is to eat!

With dental implants, you can enjoy your favorite foods without any worries! Stop struggling with the challenges of missing teeth and difficulty chewing—reach out to us today to set up your consultation appointment. During this initial visit, we’ll go over your options, including dental implants, to find the best treatment for you.

10 You face persistent toothaches.

A frequent sign that you might require dental implants is an ongoing toothache. If you're dealing with pain in a tooth that doesn't go away or keeps coming back, it may signal deeper dental issues like decay, infection, or damage. When standard treatments such as fillings or root canals fail to provide relief, dental implants might be suggested as a solution to replace the affected tooth.

11 You have loose or shifting teeth.

Adults should not have loose or shifting teeth. Healthy teeth should be securely anchored to the jawbone. If you find that your teeth are becoming loose or moving out of position, it may indicate serious gum disease or bone loss. Dental implants can offer a solution by replacing the root of the tooth, helping to maintain stability and prevent further movement.

12 Your gums are receding or you have peridontitis.

Receding gums can reveal the roots of your teeth and indicate potential dental problems. As the bone structure that supports your teeth wears away, it can lead to looseness and possible tooth loss. Dental implants, which bond with the jawbone, offer a solution by providing stability and helping to prevent further gum recession.

Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that leads to significant infection and inflammation of the gums. If not addressed promptly, it can cause damage to the gums, bones, and surrounding tissues. Teeth that no longer have adequate support may become loose, fall out, or require extraction.  For those who have experienced damage from periodontitis, dental implants might be a viable option. With the right treatment to restore healthy gums and bones, potentially involving bone and gum grafts, there is hope for successful dental implant placement.

13 You have chronic bad breath.

Chronic bad breath can stem from a variety of reasons, but often it is associated with dental issues like untreated cavities or gum disease. Dental implants can effectively address the source of these infections, leading to better oral hygiene and fresher breath.

14 You have problems speaking normally.

Teeth are essential for clear communication. When teeth are missing or misaligned, it can lead to issues like slurring, whistling, and speech difficulties, which make it challenging for others to understand you. Dental implants are designed to replicate your natural teeth, ensuring there are no speech interruptions while also helping to restore your original speech patterns.

15 You suffer from frequent headaches or jaw, mouth or teeth pain.

Unexplained headaches or discomfort in the jaw might be linked to dental problems, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Dental implants can help balance the forces of biting and chewing more effectively, which may reduce these symptoms.

16 You have one or more decayed teeth.

If you have teeth that are severely decayed or infected and cannot be saved, dental implants could be a good solution. Just like your natural teeth, these new implants require proper care, including brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

Here’s the moral to this story. 

Whether you believe you have a cosmetic need, or you sense that something isn’t right in your mouth, teeth or face, it is important for you to reach out to us without delay. Besides taking care of the issue, there is something to be said about peace of mind.

No one relishes going to the dentist. But the longer you delay diagnosis and treatment, you can suffer more damage, and  the longer it will take to get you smiling again.

---------------------------------------------------------------

Whatever you think your dental needs are, you should give us a call for a free consultation. Our practice in Oxnard is Carson & Acasio Dentistry (805) 987-1711. In Camarillo, we do business as Spanish Hills Dentistry (805) 983-0717.

Click to Request an Appointment

---

RICH SPRAGUE

Rich is our Marketing Services Manager. He’s responsible for our business rebrand, including the design of our new logo, the production of our marketing materials, and the development of our new website. He is extremely passionate towards the complete marketing and sales process. In addition to his Master’s Degree in Web Design & New Media, he has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and has been writing articles since high school. Rich's email is rich@richsprague.com.