06 Dec A Guide to Treating Tooth Loss with Dental Implants
When you lose a tooth, it’s imperative that you fill in the space left behind by the missing tooth. When a tooth is missing from your smile, your other healthy teeth can shift from their natural positions leading to problems with your bite. Bone loss under the surface of your smile can also occur, leading to extensive and costly restorative procedures down the road. Dental implants are an excellent option for treating tooth loss because they are strong, durable, and will last a lifetime with the proper care. Here is an overview of the treatment process:
Initial consultation
Your first visit to the dentist to talk about implants will include a complete set of X-rays to assess the support that the jaw bone under the missing tooth will provide for the implant. If there is insufficient bone mass in the jaw, bone grafting may be necessary prior to the placement of the implant. While you discuss your personal candidacy for dental implants with the dentist, the other details of your treatment will be mapped out.
Implant surgery
The implant itself is made from titanium, and it resembles a screw that is inserted into the gum tissue. After the implant is affixed to the jaw, it will need several weeks to fully heal and start bonding to the bone. During this time, any inflammation in the gums will subside, leaving your mouth ready for the implant crown.
Final touches
As your smile returns to normal, your dentist will start crafting a custom crown to cap the post of the metal implant. The crown may be porcelain or composite, so it will look and function like the rest of your teeth. Once the crown is in place, the treatment is complete.
For a more detailed look at dental implants and how they can be customized to the unique characteristics of your smile, schedule an appointment at the office of John Carson, DDS, by calling (520) 514-7203 or visiting our website. Our Tucson practice integrates the most sophisticated dental care technologies into a comfortable environment where you can feel like part of our family.