Your front teeth are highly visible when you smile, so if you are missing one of them, it becomes easily apparent. This means that you need a strong tooth replacement option that looks natural. Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there, but do they provide the same results when replacing front teeth? The answer is: yes, they do! Continue reading to learn more about the dental implant process and who is a good candidate.
What Is the Process for Getting a Front Tooth Dental Implant?
If you haven’t already lost your front tooth, the first step would be to have your damaged tooth extracted. After this, the area takes several months to completely heal. This allows for the bone to fill in and solidify to the point that it is more likely to support and implant successfully.
Next, a screwlike dental implant is precisely placed in the jawbone. The implant will need some time to fuse with the jawbone is a process called “osseointegration.” If the bone doesn’t have enough time to densify, it is more likely that you will experience a dental implant failure. During the osseointegration process, your implant will be covered by a protective cap to keep it safe.
After three to six months, your dental implant will have fused to the bone and will be ready to support your new replacement tooth. Your dentist will place a metal connector piece called an abutment to the end of your implant so the replacement tooth can be secured.
Who’s a Good Candidate for a Front Tooth Dental Implant?
There are many reasons why you may need a dental implant in the front of your mouth, including the following situations.
- You are missing your front tooth
- Your front tooth is loose
- Your front tooth is severely cracked or broken
- Your front tooth is infected
Most healthy adults can get dental implants. Here are some of the characteristics of a good dental implant candidate.
- Excellent Overall Health: Placing a dental implant requires a surgical procedure, so you need to be in good enough health to undergo this surgery.
- Great Oral Health: Cavities and gum disease can increase your risk of dental implant failure. You need to have issues like these addressed ahead of time.
- Adequate Jawbone Density: It is essential that your jawbone is strong enough to support dental implants for your treatment to be successful.
If you have any preexisting oral health issues, you might still be able to get dental implants. Many patients need to complete preliminary treatments, like gum disease treatment or bone grafting, before getting their dental implants.
If you are missing a front tooth, a dental implant is likely the perfect solution. By scheduling a consultation with your dentist, you will have a complete smile again in just a matter of time.
About the Author
Dr. Niki Jayswal earned her dental doctorate from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, graduating with honors. Since then, she has been committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. She has completed advanced courses in various dental disciplines, including implant dentistry. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and the Dallas County Dental Society. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (972) 366-4452.