Dental Implants: Find Out if They Are They Right for You

Dental Implants: Are They Right for You?

Core Dentistry • February 14, 2024

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.

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How Teeth Whitening Can Brighten Your Smile for Special Occasions

By Core Dentistry • February 26, 2025

It's an unfortunate fact that all kinds of factors can lead to unsightly yellow teeth . Are you wondering what can be done to quickly upgrade your smile? Teeth whitening services can be the perfect solution. Whether it's for a wedding, graduation, or an important work event, a bright smile can leave a great impression. With the right teeth whitening solutions, you can achieve a stunning smile makeover just in time for your special occasion. Read on to learn more about it. The Vital Importance of a Bright Smile A whiter smile can make a vast difference in how people perceive you. White teeth are often associated with the following: Good health Confidence Success When you feel good about your smile, you naturally exude more self-confidence. This can help in social settings, professional environments, and even during photographs that capture your special moments. Cosmetic dental services , such as dental whitening treatments, can give you the smile you have always wanted. A white smile is more than just a surface-level improvement; it can also have great psychological benefits. Many people feel more outgoing and sociable when they aren't self-conscious about their teeth. Smiling more often can: Improve mood Reduce stress Make you appear more approachable A great smile can positively impact personal relationships , career opportunities, and first impressions, making it a valuable asset in various aspects of life. How Teeth Whitening Works Teeth whitening is a simple yet amazing way to get rid of stains and discoloration. Over time, certain foods, drinks, and habits can cause teeth to lose their brightness. Common culprits include: Coffee Tea Red wine Tobacco use Teeth whitening solutions help to lift these stains, leaving your teeth several shades whiter. While over-the-counter products may provide some improvement, they often take weeks to show any effect. Professional dental whitening treatments, like those offered at Core Dentistry , use stronger whitening agents that deliver faster and longer-lasting results. There are several kinds of teeth whitening treatments to choose from, including: In-office whitening Take-home whitening kits Over-the-counter products In-office treatments are done by dental experts and often provide the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time. Take-home kits, on the other hand, involve using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel, allowing patients to whiten their teeth at their own pace. Over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels can offer mild improvements but are generally not as effective as professional treatments. Undeniable Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening One of the most phenomenal benefits of professional teeth whitening is the speed of results. In-office whitening treatments can make your teeth several shades lighter in just one visit. Another advantage is the long-lasting effects. Professional whitening lasts much longer compared to at-home kits, especially when you maintain good oral hygiene. Safety is another major benefit, as a trained dentist ensures that your gums and teeth are protected during the procedure. Plus, professional whitening allows for a customized treatment plan . Your dentist can fine-tune the strength of the whitening agent to suit your needs. Remember, a whiter smile can elevate your confidence like nothing else. It makes you feel more attractive and self-assured in social and professional settings. Beyond aesthetics, professional whitening can also encourage better oral hygiene. When people invest in their smiles, they tend to take better care of their teeth by brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups. This can lead to improved overarching dental health, reducing the risk of: Cavities Gum disease Other oral issues Additionally, professional whitening can remove stubborn stains that regular brushing and over-the-counter products may not be able to tackle. When to Whiten Your Teeth Before a Special Occasion Timing is important when planning your smile makeover. If you have an upcoming event, it is best to schedule your teeth whitening treatment at least one to two weeks in advance. This allows any minor sensitivity to subside and ensures you get the best results. If you opt for at-home whitening, you need to give yourself more time as it takes longer to see noticeable changes. Planning ahead ensures your smile looks its best for your special day. It is also important to consider any dental work you may need before whitening your teeth. Do you have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues? If so, these should be addressed before undergoing a whitening treatment. Your dentist can help assess your teeth and provide the best course of action to ensure that you achieve optimal results. Also, if you have dental restorations like crowns or fillings, it's important to note that these materials respond differently to the treatment. Maintaining Your White Smile for the Long Haul After your teeth whitening treatment, you have to take care of your teeth if you want them to retain their brightness. Avoiding foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces can help preserve your results. Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a dependable toothpaste . Consistent dental check-ups and cleanings also help support your white smile. Using a straw when drinking dark beverages can reduce contact with your teeth, thereby shrinking the chances of staining. Another tip for maintaining your white smile is to rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages. This helps prevent pigments from settling into the enamel. You may also consider using a whitening mouthwash to enhance your results. If you notice that your teeth are beginning to stain again over time, touch-up treatments may be recommended by your dentist to keep your smile bright. Keeping up with professional cleanings and avoiding habits like smoking can also contribute to long-lasting results. It's Time to Take Advantage of Dependable Teeth Whitening Services With proper teeth whitening services , you can have an amazing smile in no time. Core Dentistry provides high-quality cosmetic dental services to help you get the smile you've always wanted. Their dental whitening treatments are safe, effective, and customized. Our team members not only have medical degrees, but they're also members of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Clear Aligners, and more. Don't wait to schedule a teeth whitening appointment with Core Dentistry today.