Questions to Ask an Implant Dentist About Replacing a Missing Tooth

Seeing an implant dentist is an important decision if you are missing a tooth. You should not have to live with large gaps in your mouth. This condition can be both embarrassing and detrimental to your oral health. You will have a few options for replacing the tooth, but having implants can make a lot of sense. Your dentist can help you understand how this process works and what the benefits are.

The problems that tooth loss can cause

Even though teeth are the strongest parts of the body, they can still chip, break, or fall out. Missing teeth can negatively affect a person’s smile. It can hinder a person’s self-esteem and self-image too. But there are health implications when a tooth falls out.

Losing a tooth can invite infection into the mouth. This infection can spread throughout the mouth and even into other parts of the body. When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth can drift and become loose. Bone loss can also occur. When this happens, the shape of the person’s face can change, causing sagging and even a change in speech.

What are implants and how do they work?

An implant dentist focuses on placing dental implants in a patient’s mouth to replace missing teeth. Implants are durable options to fill in gaps in the mouth. There are three components of implants: a titanium post, a smaller piece called an abutment, and a natural-looking crown. The post goes deep into the jawbone and acts as the tooth’s root and anchor. The abutment connects to the post and attaches to the crown. Implants restore the person’s smile and the ability to chew properly.

How does the process work?

Getting dental implants requires multiple visits to the implant dentist. It is an invasive process that includes a few surgeries. There is first some preparatory work where the dentist takes X-rays and makes impressions. The dentist will extract any teeth that need to be replaced. At another appointment, the dentist places the posts by making an incision in the gums and driving them into the bone.

After a period of healing and letting the bone and post heal, the patient returns to the office. The dentist reopens the gums, exposing the post, and attaches the abutment. A few months later, the patient receives the crown. There is also some follow-up work to make sure the implants are comfortable and fit well.

What is the aftercare like?

Dental implants can last up to 20 years or more. Their longevity will depend on how well the patient takes care of them. Avoiding hard and sticky foods will help to preserve the implants. It is also vital to continue brushing and flossing each day. Patients should see the implant dentist regularly to check on the implants.

Talk to your implant dentist today about reviving your smile

If you are missing a tooth, dental implants are a good option. You can once again feel good about your appearance. Your health will improve as well. Make an appointment today so that you can get started.

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistrywalnutcreek.com or call Advanced Dentistry Of Walnut Creek at (925) 937-2273 for an appointment in our Walnut Creek office.

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