Dental Implants

Tooth extraction is most often a necessary evil. It is required to remove a tooth that is either severely infected due to cavities or damaged beyond any restoration. The dentist would initially try to restore such a tooth, but extraction would be considered the last resort option if that isn’t possible. Failing to get the tooth removed could lead to severe pain, the spread of the infection, etc., making it highly complicated.

After the extraction, a missing tooth could lead to many issues, both functional and aesthetic. Imagine having to attend a social gathering and talking to everyone you know with a missing tooth. Just the thought of it could make you feel embarrassed. If that weren’t enough, oral functionality would take a hit. All these drawbacks call for an effective means of restoring an extracted tooth.

What are dental implants?

Replacing an extracted tooth using a prosthetic one would be the best way to restore oral aesthetics and functionality. But, making sure the prosthetic tooth is secure, stable, and aesthetically pleasing is essential. All these factors are satisfied with dental implants.

A dental implant comprises a metal stud, preferably Titanium, and a ceramic crown that looks just like a natural tooth. The metal implant stud will be placed in the bone and acts as the tooth root. It has screw-like grooves on its surface, which help to hold it firmly in place. A ceramic crown would be fitted to it using a connecting element, called the abutment and dental adhesives. Together, an implant forms the perfect tooth replacement solution.

How do implants prevent a change in facial shape?

Tooth extraction involves the removal of the entire tooth structure, including the root. It leaves a gap in the jawbone, which allows the remaining teeth to move from their positions. It is called dental drifting. When the teeth move from their orthodontically right places, it could lead to malocclusion and a change in the person’s bite. Eventually, the unequal forces applied on the teeth could lead to a change in the jawbone shape and the face as a whole.

When the implant is inserted in position, it fills in the gap left by the missing tooth root. This keeps the teeth from drifting to the adjoining gap, and hence, prevents a change in the facial shape. Also, the chances of developing a malocclusion due to a missing tooth are significantly reduced.

What are the other benefits of getting dental implants?

• After getting an implant, you can bite and chew food like you usually do. There wouldn’t be any discomfort during this.
• The phonetics would return to normal, especially if you have lost a frontal tooth.
• The dental-grade porcelain used to make the implant crown is highly customizable. Its color, texture, and shape can be made to match those of the missing tooth perfectly.
• An implant is highly stable. During the healing process after implantation, the jawbone would grow around the implant and hold it firmly. Regular oral activities such as talking, biting, chewing, etc., can be done without worrying about the implant slipping off!
• An implant is highly durable and long-lasting.

You no longer have to stay worried and live with a missing tooth. Get yourself a dental implant and wave goodbye to your missing-tooth problems.

To have a consultation with our team of dentists, please call our office at (770) 995-0538 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.