Terminal dentition is not a term that most people use very often. However, dentition’s definition is something that dental implant expert Dr. Firouzian, a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), use to describe a situation where most of your teeth have failed. Those that remain may be a threat to your health.

When Your Teeth become a Threat

Dentition’s meaning are the teeth organized into two sets of teeth including the primary and permanent teeth. Healthy teeth are important to your overall health. Being able to chew a wide range of nutritious foods helps you get all the nutrients your body needs to maintain good health. Healthy teeth also provide support for an optimal jaw position so that you can avoid conditions like TMJ.

If your teeth are healthy and attractive, you can smile readily, which helps you maintain a good mood that also boosts your immune system.

If your teeth are unhealthy, they can be a danger to you. Gum disease is a chronic infection around your teeth. It allows bacteria to gain entry into your body, and as your body tries to fight off the infection, you will feel the effects far away from your mouth. Gum disease has been linked to autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and cancer, but its most dangerous effect is the strong link with heart disease, which can cause heart failure, stroke, and other serious cardiovascular problems. Cardiovascular conditions like erectile dysfunction are also linked to gum disease.

But if your teeth have decayed and become infected (called abscessed teeth), they can also become a place where bacteria can shelter. The bacteria can enter your bones, your sinuses, and even your brain, leading to a deadly infection.

When your teeth have reached this stage, it may be in the interest of your health to remove them.

Symptoms of Terminal Dentition

How do you know if you have terminal dentition? Consider these symptoms:

  • Chewing causes pain, and you avoid certain foods
  • Teeth are decayed, discolored, or broken
  • Continue to lose teeth despite gum disease treatments and changes to oral hygiene
  • You are afraid to open your mouth in public
  • You look older because of your teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Many of your teeth move significantly
  • You don’t want to smile even for family and friends

If you have several of these symptoms, then it’s likely you have terminal dentition, and it’s time to consider a solution.

Replace Your Teeth with Dental Implants in Columbus, OH

Dental implants are the new standard of care for terminal dentition, and with them, you will enjoy the ability to chew as good as or even better than you ever did with your natural teeth. It only takes three steps to replace your terminal dentition with attractive, functional replacement teeth anchored by dental implants.

First, you will consult with a dentist at Firouzian Dentistry who will make a detailed study of the current condition of your teeth and mouth. This may include photos, x-rays, a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan, and physical models of your mouth and teeth. You’ll talk about the treatment plan and come up with one that you can both agree gives your smile the health and beauty you desire.

Second, your dentist will perform the procedure. This will include removing bad teeth and placing temporary teeth. You may have to heal for six months or more before you can get your permanent replacement teeth, but temporary teeth are durable, functional, and attractive for this period.

Finally, we place your new permanent dentition. These long-term restorations are attractive and natural in appearance, and highly functional.

Many people feel concerned about pain, but modern techniques mean that you will likely experience less discomfort as a result of this procedure than you already experience due to your terminal dentition.

Affordability can be an issue, but we offer convenient financing options to help you fit this in your budget.

Are Dental Implants for Terminal Dentition Right For You?

Are you ready to get rid of your terminal dentition and start afresh with a new set of beautiful, functional teeth with help from dental implants in Columbus, OH? Please call (614) 848-5001 today for an appointment with a Columbus implant dentist at Firouzian Dentistry.