Although any form of artificial teeth, whether implanted or removable, are not exactly the same as your natural teeth, implanted teeth do possess some benefits over other forms of tooth replacement. Tooth implants are artificially created teeth that include roots that are secured into a patient’s existing bone structure. Implanting teeth is most successful in people who have recently lost one or more teeth. After a natural tooth is lost, the bone surrounding the empty socket begins to deteriorate and, if allowed to advance, this deterioration may make it difficult to secure a tooth implant in the same spot as a lost tooth.

The process of implanting a tooth generally requires only local anesthesia and can be performed right in the dentist’s office. Prior to starting the implantation process, your dentist will evaluate your overall dental condition to see if implants will work for you. The first step of implanting a tooth is inserting the root, generally constructed of titanium, into the empty socket of the missing natural tooth. The surrounding bone grows around the root over a period of several weeks. After the root is secure, a post is attached to hold the replacement tooth. The new tooth is basically the same as the teeth used for standard dental crowns and is custom-made for each patient based upon the space available, the surrounding teeth and the overall arrangement of the patient’s mouth. 

Implanted teeth are more like natural teeth than dentures or bridges and do not require a large amount of additional care beyond that given to natural teeth. Eating, speaking and facial appearance are less affected by implanted teeth than when dentures are used, and securing teeth directly into the jaw does not require the destruction of surrounding teeth as occurs when fashioning a removable dental bridge. Implanted teeth are not prone to slipping, moving or falling out and are more comfortable and easier to care for than other types of replacement teeth. Implanted teeth can be brushed, flossed and cleaned by a dentist just like natural teeth. Finally, tooth implants help to restore lost confidence and enhance the beauty of your smile.

If you have lost one or more teeth due to disease or injury, implanted teeth may be the right solution for you. Check with your dentist today for more information about tooth implants to see if you are a good candidate for this service.