Treatment for missing teeth
If you are missing one or more teeth it’s a good idea to explore your options for replacing the tooth sooner rather than later. Having just one missing tooth can cause the remaining teeth to shift out of alignment and the jaw to shrink over time. At our dental clinic in Richmond we recommend that patients consider dental implants to restore lost teeth. Read on to learn why dental implants are a great restorative dentistry option.
First of all, let’s explore what dental implants actually are. Dental implants consist of an artificial root, usually made of titanium, which is implanted into the jawbone where the root of the tooth used to be. This titanium post is used an an anchor for a prosthetic tooth, which is custom created to resemble the look, feel and function of a natural tooth. Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.
Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear and tear. In addition to replacing a single missing tooth, dental implants can support a fixed bridge or denture for a patient who is missing multiple teeth.
The process of getting dental implants takes place over the course of several months. On the first visit the titanium post is usually placed in the jawbone. The area will need some time to heal, during which time the titanium implant will become stabilized. The prosthetic tooth will be be created in a dental lab while the patient is healing and will be affixed to the implant at a later visit.
Our friendly family dentist in Richmond is experienced at a variety cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures including dental implants. If you are missing teeth and live in the Richmond area, please contact us to schedule a consultation.
