How Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Do you have missing teeth from your smile? If so, you may want to ask your dentist if dental implants are the right choice for you. A dental implant is a titanium rod inserted into your jawbone that functions like a natural tooth root would to later support an abutment and crown.

In this blog post, our Westerville dentists at Westerville Dental Associates will explain everything you need to know about the tooth implant process. That way, you’ll be ready to discuss false teeth options with your dental implant dentist.

When Patients Need Dental Implants

Did you know that losing one tooth puts you at risk for further tooth loss? This is because teeth are held in place by tooth roots and surrounding teeth. However, when you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth tilt toward the gap and can even become loose. Missing teeth can also cause healthy jawbone tissue to deteriorate over time and make your face appear sunken in.

A dental implant protects your smile by filling in the gap with a false tooth. Dental implants are also great for patients who feel self-conscious about missing teeth. There are many benefits of dental implants which include being able to eat any food you want. Dentures prevent you from eating foods like steak, popcorn, peanut butter, fruits, and vegetables. With dental implants, you are able to enjoy a full unrestricted diet.

Dental Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure takes several months. In order to be a candidate for a tooth implant you will need healthy teeth, gums, and jaw tissue. Dental implant surgery will also require you have a strong immune system. During the first appointment, the dentist will make an incision along the gum and insert a titanium rod into the jawbone. This titanium rod is the dental implant that will serve the function of a natural tooth root. A temporary tooth replacement can be put over the implant to protect the area after dental implant surgery.

The success of the tooth implant procedure depends on the implant fusing properly with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This process takes several months. When you come back for the next stage of your treatment, your dentist will place an abutment and dental implant crown over top to give you the look and function of a natural tooth.

Factors that Affect Dental Implant Cost

Tooth implant cost depends on your dentist and what your dental insurance policy covers. The condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone can also affect the cost of dental implants. For example, the cost will be higher if you need a bone graft for dental implants. Cost is something you can discuss with your dentist during your initial consultation.

The dentists at Westerville Dental Associates are dedicated to helping patients achieve beautiful healthy smiles with the best dental implants and other tooth replacement options. If you are interested in learning if you are a candidate for dental implants, schedule an appointment with one of our Westerville dental implant dentists at 614-882-1135.