I’ve Lost a Tooth! Do I need a dental implant?

Several procedures are available for replacing a missing tooth, but dental implants are among the best treatment options.

Some people prefer dental bridges because they are more affordable and easier to maintain. Others prefer dentures because they feel that these artificial teeth will be better.

The decision on whether or not to get a dental implant is entirely up to you and your dentist. But, it’s good to be informed about your options before deciding.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth surgically placed in the upper or lower jawbone. It is meant to replace a missing tooth or teeth.

Dental implants are made of titanium because it is biocompatible and durable.

They are the modern alternative to dentures or bridges used to replace teeth.

Are Dental Implants Ideal For You?

Before getting dental implants in Bolton, ON, it is vital to know if they are ideal for you. There is a criterion used to assess a patient, and it includes:

• Do you have enough bone support?

The dental implants are fixed on the jaw bone, and you need to have sufficient bone support. Missing teeth cause bone loss, and if you have significant bone deterioration, the dentist may recommend a bone graft. This is a procedure that uses bone granules to stimulate new bone growth to offer support. Without bone grafting, you will need other missing teeth replacement treatments.

• What are your habits and lifestyle?

It is crucial to have healthy gums and teeth for the implants to be fixed. If you smoke, the dentist may recommend other treatment options. This is because tobacco impairs gum healing and may affect the implant treatment process.

• What is your pain threshold?

Although the dentist will use anesthesia, you may still experience pain and discomfort after the procedure. Also, keep in mind that the implant treatment process takes several months to be completed.

What is the Process of Getting Tooth Implants?

The dental implants procedure is done under general anesthesia, and it usually takes about an hour. The doctor will make a small cut in your gum, drill into your jawbone and place the implant. After that, they will attach the post to the implant.

The healing can take several months because it is crucial for the implant to fuse to bone in a process called osseointegration. After the recovery phase, the dentist will fix the abutment to connect the implant and the dental crown. Finally, the dental crown is either screwed or cemented in place.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants

Implants are expensive but can last a lifetime. This makes them cheaper in the long run than other options, such as bridges or dentures, which only last about ten years on average.

What Are the Other Teeth Replacement Options?

You can use dental bridges or dentures to replace the lost teeth.

• Dental bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge is cemented in the gap between two natural teeth. The artificial tooth (bridge) is made from porcelain, gold, or a combination of both materials.

• Dental dentures

Dentures are removable teeth replacements made of acrylic, metal, or plastic and are used to replace missing teeth.

Dentures can be categorized into two types: partial dentures and complete dentures. Partial dentures are used in cases where some teeth need to be replaced.

Complete dentures are used when all the teeth need to be replaced or when you have more than half of the teeth missing.

The process of getting dental dentures takes several months. The dentist will design the devices by taking an impression of your gums and jawbone to create a mold that will then be used to make your dental prosthesis.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit South Hill Dental for more information about dental implants, the procedure, and what you can expect.