If you are missing a single tooth, you may believe that it is not a big deal, that the time, effort, and money spent in getting it replaced is not worth it. However, according to the American Dental Association, the loss of even a single tooth can be detrimental to the entire mouth. Your self-esteem could be impacted by tooth loss because your mouth will likely shift in a way that makes you look older, regardless of age. Dental implants can provide an excellent solution to restore your beautiful smile.
Effects of Tooth Loss
It is important to note that every tooth has a specific role to play inside of the mouth. Loss of one or more teeth can have effects on not only your smile, but your speech and ability to chew. Fortunately, dental implants are a viable option for individuals who have lost a single tooth, multiple teeth, or have lost all of their teeth. Whether it has fallen out due to trauma or an underlying dental issue doesn’t matter. Dental implants are the most effective way to replace one or more lost teeth. They allow the patient to choose from various restorations, including dental bridges, crowns, or full or partial dentures.Preparing for a Dental Implant
When replacing your missing teeth, there are a few different options for reconstruction you may explore with our team. In order to choose the correct treatment option, we will begin by taking x-rays of your mouth in conjunction with a dental exam to ensure we offer the best route possible.If you are looking for a permanent solution to replace a single tooth, or multiple teeth, that does not risk the health of the surrounding teeth, a dental implant may be your best option. A dental implant works to replace your natural root which helps reduce the chance of bone loss and the shifting of teeth. With an implanted tooth, you do not need to make any adjustments to the food you eat or damage surrounding teeth during the procedure. The new tooth will appear natural and help you to achieve your desired look while improving your oral health.
Knowing if You Are a Good Candidate for Dental Implants
You should not make a spontaneous decision to get dental implants, and there are some things that you should consider, and your dentist must check before proceeding with the procedure.Gums and Teeth
Dental implant placement requires an incision in the gums, and if a person's jawbone is not thick enough to support an implant, it is placed above it. All of these factors indicate that good gum health is the first step in moving forward with the dental implant procedure. A person dealing with gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis is not a suitable candidate for dental implant placement.Bone Density
Dental implants are permanently placed inside the jawbone, and if there is no sufficient bone in your jaw, you may not initially be able to get dental implants. Inserting dental implants in the jawbone is a surgical process, and there must be enough bone to anchor and secure the implant. However, the oral surgeon may recommend getting a bone graft first in order to clear you for the surgery.Dental Implant Procedure Requires Patience
The process of getting a dental implant and completing the dental restoration can take up to six to eight months. After the implant is placed on the jawbone, a period of at least four months is required for healing the bone and fusion of the implant, a process called osseointegration. Be prepared to commit yourself to the process as it requires patience due to its lengthy procedure.Age of the Patient
Dental implant surgery is not performed on children, as their jawbone is still growing with age. Otherwise, there are no age restrictions for getting dental implants.Smoking and Use of Tobacco
Cigarette smoking and tobacco use cause increased chances of gingivitis and periodontitis, thus gum diseases can prevent you from getting a dental implant. Smoking interferes with wound healing, which is crucial as the jawbone should be healed entirely before proceeding with the procedure. Tobacco use exposes your mouth to toxic chemicals like nicotine which also contributes to impaired healing. If you smoke or use tobacco regularly, you will not qualify for the restorative procedure of dental implantation.Dental Implant Aftercare
When replacing a single tooth, your recovery time may be very quick. While a little discomfort is normal, you may wish to take over-the-counter pain relievers to assist for a short time. If you have several, or all of your teeth replaced, your recovery time may take a bit longer. Every case is different, so be sure to adhere to the recovery instructions provided by our professionals. In every case, you should always perform daily oral hygiene tasks in order to avoid future tooth loss and gum disease.Book Your Appointment Today!
Losing your natural teeth can be a troubling event, even if it is only one. Luckily, there are solutions that will help you maintain your smile while also regaining the functionality of your teeth. A single tooth replacement, multiple tooth replacement, or the All-on-4® Treatment Concept could be the solution you need to enhance your well-being in more ways than one.A dentist or oral surgeon is your best resource in knowing whether or not you are a good candidate for dental implants. You should see a dental professional and get a complete dental examination before opting for the surgical procedure.
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants and the various ways to replace missing teeth, and to find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure, call Oak Park Dental at (971) 600-0211 to schedule your consultation. Our doctor Dan O'Leary DDS looks forward to providing you with excellent dental care.