Losing a tooth is often scary, but the good news is there are effective ways to replace a missing tooth. Many dentists recommend a dental implant when replacing a tooth due to the long-term benefits that it offers. Understanding more about what a dental implant is and whom it is for can help you decide on the best treatment option.
A dental implant is one of several ways to replace a missing tooth, although no other treatment solution has the durability or the ability to persevere jaw bone health that a dental implant does. The following defines what a dental implant is and when you should consider it after tooth loss.
A dental implant is a titanium post that is placed into the jawbone after a tooth is lost. Attached to the implant are an abutment and an artificial tooth. A dental implant looks and functions just like a normal tooth. Another benefit is that a dental implant preserves the bone in the jaw, which would otherwise deteriorate after tooth loss occurs. The process for a dental implant is, however, longer and requires a minor surgical procedure. That said, the process is safe, and the dentist monitors each step of the process.
A dental implant is ideal for individuals who have one or more missing teeth and want the most durable and natural-like replacements. As mentioned, however, the patient must be willing and able to go through a more invasive and lengthier process. The best way to make an informed decision about a dental implant restoration for a single tooth replacement is to discuss all the available replacement options with a licensed dentist who offers dental implants.
Most dentists follow a similar process, although each plan is tailored to the patient’s individual needs and preferences. The process begins with a consultation. During the consultation, the patient and the dentist can discuss treatment goals and put together a treatment plan, which may involve preparing the mouth through bone grafting and the implant placement procedure and placing the abutment and artificial tooth after the mouth heals.
When compared to a traditional partial denture and a fixed bridge, a dental implant is more durable because it is supported by the jawbone, similar to a natural tooth. A dental implant can last for more than 20 years with proper care, whereas all other methods of single tooth replacement do not last nearly as long.
Are you missing a tooth and want a long-term replacement solution? If so, a dental implant may be right for you. To learn more and to arrange a visit with our dental team for treatment, contact us by phone or email today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.summerenlowdds.com or call Summer Enlow, DDS PC at (936) 314-2347 for an appointment in our Nacogdoches office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Nacogdoches, TX.
A dental crowns, also called a cap, forms the tooth's outer covering, protecting the tooth from decay and damage. A crown does not eliminate the need to visit your dentist in the future; you will still need to have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined regularly by your dentist. However, it can certainly help restore…
Learning about dental implant restoration is something everyone who gets one or more dental implants needs to do, as they will need to undergo a restoration process if they happen to damage one of their implants. While it is difficult to damage an implant, it does occasionally happen, putting recipients on alert to take proper…
A cosmetic dentistry consultation is the first step to getting the stunning smile you deserve. Before your consultation appointment, you need to know the issues you want to address, your budget, and the procedures you think will fit your needs. You should make a list of questions you want to ask your dentist during your…
Dental veneers are thin custom-made durable shells that are bonded to a tooth’s surface to enhance the appearance of the tooth. Veneers are good options for you if you have uneven, worn down, discolored, misaligned, spaced, chipped or irregularly shaped front teeth. Veneers can help improve the appearance of your teeth and your smile. However,…
A cosmetic dentistry consultation is the first step to getting the stunning smile you deserve. Before your consultation appointment, you need to know the issues you want to address, your budget, and the procedures you think will fit your needs. You should make a list of questions you want to ask your dentist during your…
Dental veneers are thin custom-made durable shells that are bonded to a tooth’s surface to enhance the appearance of the tooth. Veneers are good options for you if you have uneven, worn down, discolored, misaligned, spaced, chipped or irregularly shaped front teeth. Veneers can help improve the appearance of your teeth and your smile. However,…