People who have lost teeth have a variety of options today. They could get dentures, a form of artificial teeth that need to be removed at night. They could get bridges, where a long artificial piece is secured by using the root structures of the two surround teeth. Dental implants represent an additional option, where an artificial tooth is permanently attached to the jaw or skull.
The first modern dental implant was placed in a patient in 1965. Dental implants include a section that is placed in the patient’s bone, known as the implant, which will be out of sight. The prosthetic tooth is then attached to the implant and observers won’t be able to tell it apart from a natural tooth.
Why Get a Dental Implant
Dental implants are permanent, so they don’t need to be removed and won’t fall out during a conversation or meal. They act, feel, chew, and bite just like any other tooth. Dental implants require the exact same amount of maintenance as a natural tooth. They need to be brushed and flossed as normal, and they are durable and long-lasting.
Bridges require altering the healthy teeth around the missing one, and flossing around them requires an advanced technique. Those problems are avoided with dental implants, which function just like natural teeth.
The Downsides to Dental Implants
With all of these advantages, dental implants offer, why would anyone replace a missing tooth any other way?
Getting dental implants in place requires three to six months for the implant to set. The bone around the implant will heal and secure it. During that time a temporary artificial tooth can be placed on the implant, but the patient will need to avoid chewing harder foods during this process.
Once the implant is in, it’s secured, and if anything were to happen to the prosthetic tooth, a new one could be attached to the same implant.
Dental implants may not be covered by your dental insurance, so it’s worth checking with your dentist office or insurance provider to make sure.
Lastly, there is a small chance of failure when the implant is placed. This is a surgical procedure and all surgeries involve some amount of risk. However, this risk is extremely minor. It’s best to discuss your options with your dental professional.
Contact us!
If you want to know more about dental implants, you can reach our Friendly Dental of Worcester office at (508) 791-4000, Unique Dental of Worcester office at (508) 753-5488, Taunton Dental Center office at (508) 822-1281, or Uxbridge Family Dental office at (508) 278-2015.
