Did you recently suffer a traumatic injury to your mouth? Did you suffer tooth loss due to the injury? Are you looking for a treatment that could help you out? Typically, when someone incurs a severe traumatic injury to their mouth, had a tooth fail to erupt, or suffered tooth decay or loss, they’ll visit a dentist for their treatment. Then the treatment a dentist would recommend is a single tooth dental implant. If the dentist does not have the expertise to handle the situation, they may refer you to a dental specialist.
In most cases, the specialist would be an oral surgeon, periodontist, or prosthodontist. They will take a few x-rays and scans to ensure that you have adequate bone for implant placement. They’ll also check if you have any systemic condition which may interfere with the dental implant treatment. If nothing comes up, then the molds of your mouth will be taken to create a dental implant that fits you right.
What are some pros of getting a single tooth dental implant?
- A considerable advantage a single tooth implant has over dental bridges is that a fixed bridge requires alteration to the perfectly healthy teeth of the individual to support it. In some cases, the alteration leads to deterioration of the jaw bone. On the other hand, a single tooth implant is implanted directly in your mouth and acts as a tooth root, which in turn also preserves the jawbone.
- A single tooth implant is permanently fixed into your mouth, and it can be cared for in the same way you take care of your other teeth. You won’t need to use special tools to take care of your teeth, which is the case for some other dental treatments. The single tooth dental implant has a strong foundation, allowing you natural comfort at all times.
- Dental implants are undoubtedly considered one of the best treatments because of their longevity and success rate. Having a single tooth implant will increase your confidence; it will restore your mouth’s regular functions, which is also essential to your overall oral health.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a surgical component that is interfaced with the jaw to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth at a time. The implant has three parts:
- The Anchor- The metal component that is inserted into the jawbone.
- The Abutment- This is a screw-like metal device attached to the anchor; this holds the prosthesis in place.
- The Prosthetic- This is an artificial tooth that is mounted on the abutment.
Phase 1 of the surgical process
The first step in this entire process starts with the use of local anesthesia to numb the part of the mouth into which the implant is inserted. This is done so that your gum tissue is easier to work with during the procedure. Then the specialist correctly inserts the implant into your jawbone. Then, the gum tissue is put back into its position and sutured to cover the implant anchor. This is a multi-step surgery; it takes several visits to the dentist and requires time to heal.
Phase 2 of the surgical process
Anesthesia is applied to numb the area again, to expose the recently implanted anchor. The next step is to attach the abutment to anchor and to suture the gum tissue back in its position. The healing process takes about 2 to 4 weeks. After the healing process is complete, the cap is removed, and the abutment is uncovered.
Phase 3 of the surgical process
The dentist will have a crown prepared as per your specifications and then attach it to the abutment. Once this step is complete, the procedure is entire.
Taking care of the implant
You must remember that you must not allow the plaque to build up around the implant. The dentist will advise you to practice proper dental hygiene daily. Furthermore, you will have to keep up with your cleaning appointments with the dentist. And you’ll have to inform the dentist if any problems or complications occur. If you live around Virginia Beach, VA, you could visit the best dental practice in that area, Lakeshore Dental. We have a group of friendly dentists who can take care of you and your family’s dental needs. We also guarantee you high-quality service and treatment. Our experienced team promises to give you a smile that you deserve.
