If you are missing a few teeth due to decay or injuries, you should consider replacing them as soon as possible. Losing your teeth not only impacts your confidence but also affects your ability to enjoy your food and speak normally. Fortunately, there are numerous options to consider, and your Henrico, VA dentist will be able to explain the options based on your needs. In this post, we are discussing one of the advanced treatments for replacing missing teeth – dental implants.

Understanding dental implants

A dental implant is usually made of titanium and works as an artificial root for a missing tooth. With dental implants, you can get replacement teeth through either of the three typical options – dental bridges, implant-supported dentures, and crowns. Because the implant becomes a part of your jawbone, it is permanent and is the most effective way to replace lost teeth.

Should you consider dental implants?

Your dentist is the best person to discuss that question. Thanks to dental implants, you can replace one or more of your missing teeth without affecting the adjacent teeth, a common concern with dental bridges. With dental implants, your neighboring teeth will not shift from place, and once you have replacement teeth, you can have natural chewing and speech capabilities. It is the closest you can get to having a perfect smile.

What is the procedure like?

It can take a few months before you get replacement teeth with dental implants. Typically, your dentist will start with 3D scans and X-rays to determine if you are a good candidate. If you have already lost significant bone mass, they may need to do a bone graft before proceeding with implant surgery. Bone grafting is a safe procedure, but this can delay getting your dental implants. Oral surgery is required to place dental implants inside or above the jawbone. It can take at least 12 weeks for the treated site to heal, after which your dentist will order replacement teeth from a lab. If you prefer implant-supported dentures or crowns, let your dentist know.

Is the procedure painful?

No, you will not feel any pain during the surgery, as your dentist will use local anesthesia. You may need medications to accelerate the healing process, and discussing other risks, if any, is a good idea. As with any surgery, there is always a risk of infection and bleeding. However, dental implants have a high success rate, and most concerns can be addressed as long as a good dentist is doing the surgery.

Call your dentist in Henrico now!