When a patient has been unfortunate enough to suffer the loss of one of their teeth, it is important to have this cosmetic problem addressed as soon as possible. Being without a tooth for an extended period of time can cause the surrounding teeth to shift positions, which can make correcting the cosmetic issues more complicated. Once you have learned about the following answers to a couple of common questions about replacing missing teeth, you will be in a better position to choose an option for your unique situation.
Are Dental Implants Worth The Investment?
There are many options available for replacing a missing tooth. However, dental implants offer patients a couple of important benefits over options such as bridges and dentures. One of the more important benefits is that these implants are directly attached to the jaw. This helps the implant to be securely held in place while also providing support to the jaw. In contrast, dentures and bridges are unable to provide this same support, which can cause the jawline to start to erode. Another benefit of opting for implants is that they are far more durable than either dentures or bridges, which can save you the hassle of having these devices replaced every few years.
Will You Have To Go Without A Tooth For Awhile?
When a patient is having a tooth replaced, they likely want to have this procedure completed as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, receiving a dental implant can be a lengthy process due to the need for the metal in the implant to bond with the bone in the jaw.
Luckily, this does not mean that you will have to go without a tooth for an extended period of time. Your dentist will be able to install a temporary tooth. This tooth will fit over the implant, and it can be almost indistinguishable from your natural teeth. When the permanent artificial tooth is ready, your dentist can quickly remove the temporary tooth and install the permanent artificial one.
Receiving a dental implant can be the best option for restoring your smile following the loss of one of your natural teeth. Yet, you might not be a well-informed patient about this option. When this is the case, you might benefit from having these couple of questions about receiving an implant addressed. Knowing the benefits of opting for this particular treatment as well as the fact that your dentist will provide a temporary tooth can help you to be an informed patient and consumer when you are choosing how to have this problem repaired.
Contact a center like Dental Images to learn more.