Tooth loss complicates your life and your health. But there are simple solutions for replacing your missing teeth, including dental implants.
Before you set aside implant treatment in favor of other tooth replacement options such as dentures or a dental bridge – get the facts.
Let the basics speak for themselves
A missing tooth or missing teeth creates a list of concerns. Those often include:
- Embarrassment about your appearance and smile
- Eating, chewing and speaking
No doubt these cause emotional and lifestyle problems.
But tooth loss also sets in motion a number of health issues. The primary issue is the gap or gaps left behind in your mouth.
A missing tooth gap can…
- Cause your surrounding teeth to move and become misaligned
- Give plaque bacteria space to thrive leading to tooth decay and gum disease
- Lead to bone loss
A long-lasting solution to solve your tooth loss problems
Dental implants restore your natural tooth function, renew your appearance, and solve most problems associated with tooth loss.
For example, dentures sit on the surface of your gums. Consistent use of dentures can erode your valuable gum and bone tissue beneath them. Tissue erosion causes additional problems for tooth replacement and can increase your treatment costs.
On the other hand, a dental bridge requires the support of your surrounding teeth. Those teeth must be healthy and capable of supporting your bridge structure.
A dental implant is crafted from a surgical grade of titanium. Your implant forms a new tooth root as it is surgically secured into your jawbone and gum tissue.
Next, a post (abutment) is placed within your implant once it heals. A dental crown is then secured to the post to form an attractive, functional, new tooth on the surface.
Dental implants can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. Implants can also be used to secure a dental bridge or as the foundation of fixed or removable implant-supported dentures.
Also remember that treatment with dental implants is more secure and permanent than full dentures, partial dentures, or a dental bridge. Cost comparisons should include the long-term value of dental implants compared to other tooth replacement options.
What to expect during your dental implant procedure
Two to three phases of treatment are common when choosing dental implants for missing teeth replacement. Your initial consultation will determine your overall health and the health of your bone tissue. The procedure involves oral surgery with local anesthesia and most often sedation dentistry.
The first phase of dental implant treatment
- The implant is surgically placed in your jawbone within your missing tooth gap.
- Your gum tissue is placed over your implant to begin the necessary healing period.
- Your implant will adapt to your bone tissue during a period of approximately three to six months.
The second (and third) phase of dental implant treatment
- After healing the post (abutment) is placed within your dental implant. This forms the attachment point above your gum line for securing your new tooth (a crown).
- The final step places a dental crown on top of your post. The crown, post (abutment), and implant fill your missing tooth gap with a new, secure tooth structure.
Your questions and ultimate decision about tooth replacement are essential for good oral health.
Contact your St. Petersburg cosmetic dentist, Dr. Roberto Macedo about your missing tooth or missing teeth. Schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Macedo, to discuss tooth replacement with dental implants.