Missing a tooth can affect more than just your smile. It can make eating and speaking more difficult, affect your confidence, and sometimes change the way your remaining teeth function.
The good news is that there are several options available to replace missing teeth. One of these options is a dental implant a long term solution designed to look and feel as natural as possible.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that is placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant has healed and integrated with the surrounding bone, it can support a dental crown, bridge or, in some cases, a denture.
The result is a replacement tooth that is designed to blend in with your natural teeth and restore function.
Why Consider Dental Implants?
There are several reasons why patients choose dental implants to replace missing teeth.
A Natural-Looking Smile
Dental implants are designed to look like natural teeth. Our dentist can work with you to choose a shape and shade that complements your existing teeth, helping your replacement tooth blend naturally into your smile.
Improved Function
Missing teeth can make chewing certain foods more difficult. Replacing them can help restore your ability to eat more comfortably and confidently.
Support for Your Smile
When a tooth is lost, the bone that once supported the tooth can gradually change over time. Dental implants are placed into the jawbone and can help provide support in the area where the tooth root was previously located.
A Long Term Option
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, dental implants can be a long lasting option for replacing missing teeth. Like natural teeth, they still require regular brushing, cleaning and professional dental check ups.
Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?
Dental implants can be an excellent option for many patients, but they are not suitable for everyone.
Our dentist will need to assess your overall oral health, the condition of your gums, the amount and quality of bone available, and the location of the missing tooth or teeth.
Factors such as smoking, gum disease, certain medical conditions and previous dental treatment may also affect whether implants are suitable or whether additional treatment is required first.
What Is the Dental Implant Process?
The dental implant process usually involves several stages and can take time to complete.
Our dentist will first carry out a comprehensive assessment and may recommend dental imaging to evaluate the teeth, gums and underlying bone.
If an implant is suitable, the implant fixture is surgically placed into the jawbone. A healing period is then required to allow the implant to integrate with the bone.
Once the implant has healed, the next stage is to attach the restoration, such as a dental crown, which forms the visible part of the replacement tooth.
Every patient is different, so our dentist will discuss the expected treatment time and steps involved based on your individual needs.
Looking After Your Dental Implants
Although dental implants are designed to be durable, they still need to be cared for.
Good oral hygiene is essential. This includes brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth and attending regular dental check ups and professional cleans as recommended by our dental team.
It is also important to remember that while the implant itself cannot develop tooth decay, the surrounding gums and natural teeth still need to be looked after.