There are many different ways to correct missing teeth, each having their own pros and cons. If you want to restore your smile a dental implant for missing teeth might be an option for a more natural permanent look.
Unlike dentures that you wear during the day and remove in the evening, a dental implant is permanent. This is a surgical procedure that provides the appearance of your natural teeth. The entire process takes months to complete and once complete, the patient will have to wait up to two weeks before the permanent tooth is inserted to allow the last step in the process to heal. While there is a minimal number of patients who reject the process, most patients are happy with the outcome.
Each tooth is comprised of a crown and a root. The prosthetic is the crown and the anchor is the root. Just like natural teeth, the replacement needs something to hold it in place. This anchor securely does this without the need to remove your teeth, like dentures.
The Procedure of Implants
Keep in mind that the procedure will take time to complete and the patient will make several trips to the dentist during this process. If you are a smoker, your dentist will encourage you to stop, not only because it is not healthy, but it will prolong the healing process. Diabetics are also encouraged to try other methods due to increased healing time secondary to this medical condition. If you are healthy, the procedure will go something like this. The dentist will prepare the area and insert an anchor. This will act as a support for the new tooth. If you have bones that will not support the device, the dentist may perform a bone graft and obtain bone from another area in the mouth or use synthetic bone to build a suitable support for the anchor.
When Can I Smile Again
Once the anchor is in place the patient must allow the area to heal. Remember, this is a surgical procedure, and while sutures are typically removed within 14 days, the anchor must mesh with the jaw and this can take up to six months. This is also called osseointegration, and once complete, a post is put in place attached to the implant. The post is what holds the new tooth in place and the dentist will make an impression of your mouth and match the color of your teeth to the new one.
Filling in the Gap
While the process is underway, a false tooth may be used for cosmetic reasons. The temporary false tooth attaches to the roof of the mouth with a wire or place. This is a temporary way to avoid embarrassment while the anchor is setting.
How Much Does This Cost
The biggest deterrent of this procedure is the cost factor. Because this procedure is considered cosmetic dentistry, many insurance carriers will not cover the cost. If you have an existing dental conditions which require removal of one or more teeth, some of the cost may be defrayed, but overall the expense is on the patient. Finance options are available, such as supplemental insurance or even even financing of the procedure so you can pay over time.
This process does take some time, and it can be quite costly, but it provides the most natural look for replacing missing teeth. When complete, no one will ever know that you have a fake replacement.
Get the low down on how to easily replace missing teeth with dental implants now in our complete review of everything you need to know about the best Miami Dental Implants .