Tooth loss can impact virtually every area of your life, from your confidence and how you carry yourself to your future oral health. These effects are exacerbated when the teeth that are missing are your front, most visible ones. Fortunately, you no longer have to worry about having replacement teeth that look and feel “off” because dental implants offer the best in form and function. Read on to learn more about what the process of getting dental implants to replace your front teeth looks like.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are shaped like screws. They’re designed to be surgically placed below the gumline and within the jawbone to act as replacement roots for your missing teeth. Because they’re made from biocompatible titanium, they’re able to naturally fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration that allows them to supply the bone with blood flow and stimulation that keeps it from deteriorating with time.
Once osseointegration has occurred, the dental implants are ready to serve as a strong and unwavering foundation for any type of restoration. Depending on your situation, you can attach a dental bridge, dental crowns, or even a full denture to the implants to replace your missing front teeth.
The Process of Replacing Front Teeth with Dental Implants
The first step of every dental implant treatment is an in-depth consultation with your dental implant dentist in Irving. They will examine your mouth, look over your medical and oral health histories, and discuss all of your tooth replacement treatment options with you so you can determine which one best fits your unique needs. In some cases, like those where a patient has been missing their teeth for some time, preparatory procedures like bone grafting may be needed before you can undergo surgery.
After you’ve been cleared for dental implant placement, the rest of the treatment will commence, including the surgery, abutment placement, healing process, and restoration attachment. Overall, the dental implant process can take anywhere from six months to a year or longer, depending on your unique situation.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
While the up-front price tag may be higher and the overall treatment process is longer, dental implants remain a top choice for patients replacing front missing teeth for a number of reasons. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy by choosing this gold standard treatment:
- Front teeth that not only look completely natural but also feel lifelike.
- Improved eating and speaking abilities.
- Boosted confidence with a complete smile.
- Replacement teeth that can last for several decades with good oral hygiene.
- Preservation of jawbone and facial structures.
Your front teeth are the stars of your smile, and without them, your confidence can feel dismal. However, when you invest in a tooth replacement treatment that can give you your natural-looking and feeling smile back, you’ll be ready to let it shine everywhere you go! The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dental implant dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has over 10 years of experience practicing dentistry and has completed additional post-graduate training that allows him to place and restore dental implants in-house for a more convenient patient experience. With countless benefits to offer, Dr. Hirji highly recommends dental implants to his patients who are good candidates. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website today or call 972-546-4114.