So, you’re missing a tooth. Maybe you are missing several teeth. Perhaps you have an upcoming extraction planned and are considering what your options might be for after your tooth is removed. Dentists exist to help. There are many choices available for replacing a tooth, or several teeth and it is likely that you will be able to discuss a few options with your dentist if you choose to go down the route of replacing them.
It is important to recognise that missing teeth can be caused by an injury to the mouth and so if you have experienced this type of trauma please do contact your dentist (or NHS 111) for advice on where to go to receive the right level of care. If you are in severe pain, or are experiencing heavy bleeding you must attend your local A and E department who can address your urgent needs.
If your needs are not urgent however, you are possibly looking into some options for replacing your missing teeth. If this is you, we would encourage you to book a consultation with your friendly dentist who would always be willing to discuss your options with you following a thorough check of your mouth and teeth. One of the options you may be given at this appointment is to replace your teeth with dental implants Leicester.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a method of replacing teeth which is designed to last. It is made up of three parts: the implanted screw, a metal connector post (abutment) and a crown or denture. The implanted screw acts like the natural tooth root. It is screwed or tapped into the gap left by the tooth to create an anchor for the rest of the restoration. The abutment plugs into the implant and can have a crown added to it when replacing individual teeth. If several adjoining teeth are missing, a denture or bridge may be used and anchored by a few implanted screws as an option instead of individual implants for every tooth.
Are there any advantages to the use of dental implants?
As dental implants use a screw to replace a tooth root, they provide a very stable base for the visible prosthetic. These screws are advantageous themselves as they can stimulate bone growth around them which enhances the stability, and can have a positive effect if the tooth loss was caused by injury. If you expect to undergo a tooth extraction, the implantation of these screws can be done at the same time as the extraction if your case allows. This is on a case-by-case basis and should be discussed with your qualified practitioner.
Because of the stability of the implanted screw, you are less likely to lose confidence in your speech and eating, as when the healing process is complete there should be no movement in your replacement teeth. Similarly, they can help maintain confidence in brushing, flossing and dental hygiene routines as they can be treated very much like natural teeth. Where good oral health routines are in place, and regular appointments are attended, dental implants are known to be durable, lasting up to a lifetime with proper care.
Dental implants are tailor made for the individual. This helps to improve comfort as the fit is designed for your particular mouth and teeth. The colour of the crown or fixed denture can also be adapted to match any natural teeth that remain, thus helping the implants to maintain an authentic look and reducing the possibility of them standing out in your smile.
So, what are you waiting for? If you’d like to know more about dental implants, you can find answers to any questions you may have online. Or, better still, to find out if you are eligible for this course of treatment, book a consultation with your dentist who would be pleased to discuss this with you.
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