Losing a tooth used to be the end of the road. Thankfully, modern dentistry has provided patients who experience tooth loss or trauma with endless options to explore.
One of the best solutions to replace a missing tooth is a dental implant. Not only do dental implants look like a real tooth, but they also replace the portion of the tooth which sits below the gumline, which helps prevent bone loss.
High Street Smiles is a leading provider of dental implants in Warrington.
If you are thinking about getting a dental implant in Cheshire, then we recommend booking a consultation with one of our dentists today.
In the meantime, here is a quick overview of dental implants, including whether or not they could be the best option in your particular case.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth which is inserted into the jawbone.
The implant itself is actually the titanium screw which is inserted into the jaw. It allows the replacement tooth (a crown) to sit above the gumline so that it looks as close to the real thing as possible. Inserting the implant into the jaw also helps prevent bone loss, which can occur when a tooth is lost.
Unlike a denture, a dental implant is designed to remain in place indefinitely. The crown which sits on top of the implant can last 10-15 years. It can be replaced easily by your dentist in just a few simple steps.
The process of getting a dental implant can take several months, meaning it is a more invasive procedure than other options. But, a dental implant can offer many benefits that other solutions cannot match.
Who might need a dental implant?
You might be considering a dental implant if you have lost a tooth and are in search of the best solution currently available to replace the look and function of the tooth.
When a tooth is lost, it can create a noticeable gap in your smile. However, it can also create difficulties eating and even speaking.
Therefore, an implant looks to solve all of these issues to offer a more permanent solution than other options available.
Also, you may need an implant if your dentist feels that another solution isn’t possible in your case. For example, if the damage to the tooth is too severe to fix with a filling. Or, if a crown on its own above the gumline wouldn’t work without additional support from an implant in the lower portion of the jaw.
Is a dental implant the right choice for me?
If you are missing one or more teeth, then you could be a good candidate for a dental implant.
That’s providing you also meet the following criteria:
- You have healthy jawbone
- You have healthy gums
- You don’t smoke (or are willing to quit)
- You don’t take drugs
- You don’t have diabetes, cancer or an autoimmune disorder
Overall, you’ll also be in search of a long term solution to replace the look and function of your missing tooth or teeth.
It’s also worth noting that if there isn’t enough supporting bone, you may be able to undergo a bone graft or sinus lift to remedy this. However, you’ll need to be willing to undergo a longer and overall more invasive treatment process.
To determine whether you are a good candidate for a dental implant, you’ll need to visit us for a consultation.
During a consultation, your dentist will take X-rays or 3D scans to assess your bone structure. Your dentist will also review your health history, habits and treatment goals to make a professional determination.
What are the alternatives to dental implants?
Dental implants are highly sophisticated technology which are custom made just for you. As a result, they do cost more than other options.
To be a good candidate for a dental implant, you also need good bone density and healthy gums. You should also be a non-smoker and be generally healthy.
In the event a dental implant isn’t affordable for you, or if your dentist feels you aren’t a good candidate for a dental implant, a dental bridge is another option to consider.
A dental bridge is when a prosthetic tooth or a small number of teeth are anchored to adjacent natural teeth.
The process of getting a bridge is quicker, cheaper and less invasive. It’s also a good option if you don’t have the required bone to support an implant.
However, a consideration of getting a dental bridge is that it doesn’t offer as good a solution as an implant. The biting and chewing function can also be less satisfactory compared with an implant.
Furthermore, the lifespan of an implant can be indefinite, whereas a bridge will need replacing after 5-15 years.
If you want to prevent bone loss following an extraction, you should also know that a dental bridge will not provide this. In contrast, an implant is inserted deeply into the jaw to provide more structure to the area where the tooth is missing.
Dealing with tooth loss in Warrington? Book a consultation with our dentists today
If you are looking for a solution to replace a missing tooth such as a dental implant or bridge, then our dentists are here to help.
High Street Smiles is based in Warrington, Cheshire. To receive tailored advice about the treatment which would be best for you, please book a consultation with one of our dentists.
Alternatively, if you have any questions about anything we’ve mentioned above, please give us a call on 01942 726983.
