If you have lost one or more teeth due to injury, your dentist may recommend dental implants to replace the missing teeth. Dental implants are just one of the many options to replace missing teeth, but many dentists recommend implants first. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants look, feel, and function just like regular teeth.

What Are Other Options for Tooth Replacement?

Dental implants aren’t the only option for tooth replacement. So before we talk about treatment, let’s discuss a few different solutions, and when each may be recommended.

Dentures

Dentists may recommend dentures when an accident or poor oral health has left you with few or no teeth, or your gums and underlying bone are strong enough for implants. Dentures look like natural teeth, but they’re removable, and need to be taken out for cleaning and sleeping.

Today’s dentures are not the same as what your grandparents wore. The technology and materials used for dentures has advanced, and they now look and feel more like natural teeth.

Bridge / Crown and Bridge

A  bridge is another good option to fill one or more missing teeth. In a crown and bridge procedure, one or more artificial teeth are fused to crowns placed on healthy teeth on either side of the gap. In some cases, the dentist may use dental implants instead of healthy teeth to anchor the bridge. Unlike dentures, a bridge is permanent, and is not removed. Bridges look and feel like natural teeth; the only difference is in how you care for them. You brush a bridge like your regular teeth, but must use a special floss threader to floss.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial teeth mounted on a titanium root inserted into your jawbone. Like a bridge, dental implants are permanent, and do not need to be removed for cleaning. However, you care for implants (flossing and brushing) exactly like your normal teeth.

Midland Bay Dental offers all these tooth replacement options – dentures, bridges and dental implants – so if you lose teeth, feel free to visit us to discuss what option might be best for you.

Dental Implant Procedure

Implant dentistry is a common dental procedure. Placing dental implants typically takes at least two treatments, sometimes a few weeks or even months apart.

First Visit

During the first visit, the dentist places a titanium “root” or dental implant into your jawbone beneath your gums, then stitches the gum tissue back in place.

Although dental implants can be placed in one visit, the dentist typically waits for the gum tissue to heal before starting the second stage. This can take several months, and during this time the titanium root also bonds with the bone in your jaw.

In between visits, an artificial tooth is made to fit into the gap between your teeth.

Second Visit

During your second visit, the dentist fits an “abutment,” or post over the titanium root, and attaches your new artificial tooth to the abutment.

The dentist will work with you to assess the overall comfort of your bite, and it may take a few quick return visits to ensure it is comfortable.

Is the Procedure for Dental Implants Painful?

Patients are typically awake for a dental implant procedure. Pain is managed with a local anesthetic, so you should not feel any stinging or sharp pain. However, you will likely feel pressure, and may feel some discomfort.

You can treat any swelling or pain after the procedure with over-the-counter pain medication.

To learn more about managing pain from a dental procedure, read our blog “Tips to Take Away the Pain of Tooth Extractions.”

Want to Know More about Dental Implants? Visit Midland Bay Dental!

At Midland Bay Dental, we take care of all your family dentistry needs. Whether you’re looking to visit for your regular dental exam and cleaning, or want to know more about dental implants, dentures or bridges, contact us today!