Even a single missing tooth can have a lasting effect on the appearance of your smile, dental function and oral health. If you have lost a tooth, you are probably very aware of the many ways your smile and ability to eat and speak have changed.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to replace your missing tooth and recapture a complete smile. Dr. William Munn frequently recommends dental implants as permanent tooth replacements. No other tooth replacement offers the stability and longevity of a dental implant. When placed correctly and properly maintained, a dental implant can last the rest of your life.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A single-tooth implant consists of a crown mounted to the top of a titanium post or screw. The post or screw is placed in your jawbone to serve as an anchor for the crown; the pressure of chewing on the implant post helps to keep the bone strong and intact. The crown is customized to blend in with your surrounding teeth (in terms of shape, size and color). Once placed and healed, your implant is virtually identical to the rest of your natural teeth.
Dental implants are highly versatile and can be used to replace multiple teeth or all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Dental implants can support a bridge to replace clusters of missing teeth. Implants can also support denture appliances to replace an entire arch of teeth.
How Is a Dental Implant Placed?
Dental implants require several appointments to plan and place. Prior to beginning implant treatment, you will meet with Dr. Munn to discuss your tooth replacement needs and map out a custom treatment plan.
The first phase of dental implant treatment is to place the implant’s post or screw in your jawbone. This creates a sturdy foundation for the artificial tooth or teeth attached to the post.
Next, the implant post or screw needs time to heal. During a period of several months, the post or screw integrates with the surrounding jawbone. The bone grows around the post or screw to firmly hold it in place.
The third phase of dental implant treatment is to fit and place the custom dental crown, bridge or dentures. A temporary tooth replacement may be used while your permanent restoration is being fabricated. Once in place, the crown, dental bridge or denture appliance can be tweaked if needed to support a normal bite and a comfortable fit.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants are fixed in your mouth and do not require the regular care and maintenance of removable dentures. You can care for your implant(s) just as you would a natural tooth. You can also enjoy all of your favorite foods, including crunchy or chewy foods.
As long as you brush and floss your implant on a daily basis and see Dr. Munn and our team regularly for dental check-ups and cleanings, your implant should last a very long time.
Learn More about Your Dental Implant Options
The decision to replace a missing tooth is serious and requires the expertise of a knowledgeable, trustworthy dental professional. With over 90 years of combined experience, Dr. Munn and our team can help you make the choice that is right for your needs.
To learn more about dental implants, please request a consultation with Dr. Munn today.
