A missing tooth is easy to put off, especially if it does not hurt. But over time a gap can affect how you eat, how you speak, and even the health of the teeth around it. Dental implants are the most natural, long-lasting way to replace a missing tooth, and for many of our Albuquerque patients they are life changing.

Here are five signs that an implant might be right for you.

1. You have a missing tooth, or one that needs to be removed

This is the most obvious one. If you have lost a tooth, or you are facing an extraction because a tooth cannot be saved, an implant can fill that space with a replacement that looks and feels like your own. Unlike a bridge, an implant does not rely on the neighboring teeth for support.

2. Your gap is causing other teeth to shift

Teeth like to drift toward open space. When you lose a tooth, the ones next to it can begin to tip or shift, which changes your bite and makes cleaning harder. Replacing the tooth promptly helps keep everything in its proper place.

3. You are tired of a loose or uncomfortable denture

If you wear a denture that slips, clicks, or makes it hard to enjoy your favorite foods, implant-supported (snap-on) dentures can change that. A few implants can anchor your denture securely so it stays put while you eat and talk.

4. You want to protect your jawbone

The root of a tooth stimulates the jawbone every time you chew. When a tooth is missing, that part of the bone can slowly shrink. An implant replaces the root, helping preserve the bone and the shape of your face over time.

5. You are in generally good health

Most healthy adults are good candidates for implants. We will review your medical history and check the health of your gums and jawbone to make sure an implant is a good fit. Thanks to in-house 3-D imaging, we can plan your treatment precisely and comfortably.

Find out if an implant is right for you

The best way to know is a simple consultation. Dr. B is one of Albuquerque’s most experienced implant dentists, and we offer a free implant consultation, excluding X-rays. If you have been living with a gap or a failing tooth, we would love to help you explore your options.

Call us at (505) 821-6910 or book online to get started.