Many people struggle to accept the changes that come with tooth loss. For example, you might feel self-conscious about the gaps in your grin or have a hard time chewing or speaking normally.
This can be especially true if you’ve lost a front tooth, which plays a pivotal role in your ability to bite into healthy foods and enunciate words. Your dentist can replace it with a dental implant, but many patients wonder if this solution is suitable to meet their unique needs. Continue reading to learn how this treatment can be ideal for restoring front teeth!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the only replacement teeth that involve surgically embedding a titanium rod directly into your jaw. You might require three to six months to recover from this procedure, because that’s about how long it takes for your jaw to generate enough new bone material to fuse with the biocompatible metal.
Then, your dentist caps your implant with a lifelike restoration that’s usually made from resilient ceramic that can be customized to look like your natural teeth. A single implant is usually capped with a realistic dental crown, but two rods in your jaw can support a dental bridge, and four or more can anchor permanent dentures.
Can Dental Implants Replace Front Teeth?
Some dentists prioritize rebuilding lost molars with dental implants because back teeth sustain so much added pressure from biting and chewing. This leads some patients to wonder whether these prosthetics are even an option for closing gaps in the front of their grin.
Thankfully, dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth anywhere in your mouth. If you’re concerned that a prosthetic located front and center will look awkward or out of place, you can safely set your fears aside. Today, the tooth-shaped portion is made from durable, tooth-colored materials made to match the size, shape, and shade of your natural enamel for seamless results.
Am I A Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Although many experts consider these replacements to be the ideal way to restore smiles after tooth loss, it doesn’t mean they’re the best treatment to meet everyone’s unique needs. Before proceeding, you must consult your dentist to ensure you have sufficient jawbone density to support them. They’ll also examine your mouth and treat any pre-existing issues, like cavities or gum disease, that might interfere with the outcome.
Fortunately, your dentist can place dental implants to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality regardless of where they’re located!
Meet the Author
Dr. Christopher Rodriguez takes pride in helping improve patients’ daily quality of life by rebuilding their smiles after tooth loss. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of California at San Francisco before completing a General Practice Residency at the University of Nevada. Today, he provides various services to replace missing teeth to help you look and feel like the most beautiful and capable version of yourself, including dental implants. You can request a consultation on the website or call (561) 448-0026.