Tooth loss can have a huge impact on daily living. Eating the foods you love, speaking and smiling are immediately affected when faced with the loss of one or more teeth. But whether tooth loss is due to trauma, disease, infection or any reason, you can regain the functionality you had thanks to your implant dentist.
Dental implants can be used to replace one or several lost teeth. The process starts with a thorough dental exam and a medical review to make sure you are a qualified candidate for dental implants. Patients with periodontal disease or autoimmune disorders are more at risk for complications when pursuing dental implants, so these topics are carefully reviewed before moving forward.
A qualified candidate must also have achieved bone maturity, which eliminates children from this procedure.
The implant itself is a small device usually made from titanium that is surgically placed in the gum tissue where you have sustained tooth loss. The strength of this metal will provide stability and durability to the eventual restoration that will be delivered.
The implant is intended to fuse to bone tissue during the healing time, usually about six months. During this time, the implant is protected by a temporary restoration. It is essential to observe excellent oral hygiene habits of flossing and brushing to keep the implant area clean as one of the leading causes of implant failure is due to infection.
Smoking is also a leading factor for implant failure, so abstaining from tobacco use is strongly encouraged.
At the conclusion of the healing process when the implant has successfully anchored to the bone, your implant dentist will be ready to complete the procedure by providing you with a final restoration. The material of this restoration will allow your dentist to match the shape and shade of your surrounding natural teeth.
This makes your implant virtually undetectable, but you now have the appearance and functionality once enjoyed before tooth loss.
So whether you are faced with replacing one or several teeth, dental implants can provide an avenue that will restore your ability to eat, speak and smile with confidence. The only special care needed for your dental implants is to continue with the excellent oral hygiene habits adopted during the healing process and twice annual visits to your dental provider for a professional cleaning and exam.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options in the University Park area, contact the office of Dr. Brad Crump at 214-443-0876.