subject: Dental Implants- The Most Permanent Option To Replace A Missing Tooth [print this page] In the case of a missing tooth, there are a few different options that you have to effectively restore your tooth and your smile. Both dentures and dental bridges offer the ability to fully restore your smile. However, the longest lasting and most permanent option available to you is to have your dentist install a dental implant. A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is installed directly into the bone socket of a missing tooth. Once a dental implant is put in, it will act as an anchor for a replacement crown. If you are in need of a replacement tooth procedure, don't hesitate to talk to your dentist about dental implants.
How Are Implants Installed?
The first thing your should do if you are considering dental implants is to have a conversation with your dentist to go over your different options and see if you are a candidate for implants. To successfully get implants installed, you need to have enough gum and bone material to support it. Your dentist will also be able to discuss cost and financing options with you. Once you and your dentist have collaboratively decided that an implant is the best option for you, he or she will then begin the procedure by anesthetizing the area. He or she will then attach the titanium implant directly into the bone socket of the missing tooth. After securely fastening the implant to your jawbone, you will need to wait between six and twelve weeks for your gums to heal around the implant. During this time, the implant will become further secured in your mouth.
After the healing process is completed, your dentist will attach a small connector post to the implant. After this, he or she will take a detailed impression of the area in order to create a crown that will fit in perfectly with the rest of your teeth. Once the crown is ready, he or she will attach it directly to the connector post and the procedure will be complete.
Why Implants Are A Good Option For You
There are many significant benefits to getting dental implants installed. The most important one is that dental implants offer the most permanent solution to tooth loss available today. When an implant is installed, it becomes a functional part of your mouth. Because of this, an implant can last 25 years or in some cases an entire lifetime. To take care of your dental implant, you only need to make sure you have a healthy mouth by brushing, flossing and visiting your Edina dentist for regular checkups.
To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact your Eden Prairie dentist as soon as you can.