subject: How A Dental Implant Can Help Restore Your Smile [print this page] Whether it is caused by years of decay or a sudden injury to your tooth, losing a tooth can be a very stressful event for you. However, if you find yourself in this situation, it is important for you to realize that your dentist has the capability to fully restore your smile. Today there are several options to replace a missing tooth. The longest-lasting option available is through the use of a dental implant. An implant is a replacement tooth root that is directly attached to your jawbone. After it is secure, an implant will act as an anchor for a replacement dental crown. Talk to your dentist about dental implants if you are ever in a situation where a replacement tooth is necessary.
How Dental Implants Work
The first thing you need to do if you think a dental implant can help you is to have a conversation with your dentist to go over your options and see if you are a candidate for dental implants. He or she will also be able to talk to you about costs and financing options. To receive a dental implant, you need to have enough bone and gum material to effectively support it. Once you and your dentist have determined that dental implants are the best option for you, he or she will begin by anesthetizing the area. The implant will then be secured directly to your jawbone. When this is completed, you will then need to wait between six and twelve weeks for your gums to heal around the implant, further securing it into place.
After the healing process is finished, your dentist will next attach a small connector post to the implant. Next, an impression will be taken of the area in order to create a replacement crown that will fit in perfectly with the rest of your teeth. Once the crown is ready, your dentist will attach it to the connector post to complete the procedure. You will then be free to leave your dentist's office and start fully enjoying your restored smile.
What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implants?
The most important advantage of dental implants is that they provide you with the most permanent tooth replacement option. When an implant is put in, it becomes a functional part of your mouth. Because of this, a dental implant can last up to 25 years or in some cases for an entire lifetime. In addition, taking care of your dental implant doesn't require any additional work besides your regular daily responsibilities to brush and floss your teeth. This is an improvement over dentures, which require daily cleaning to maintain.
To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact your dentist in Dearborn today.
