When You Have Lost a Tooth*

Having crooked or missing teeth can really affect an individual’s self-esteem. There are many causes for tooth loss and while people with missing teeth are perceived to be less sociable, more often than not, missing teeth are a result of sporting injuries.

It is understandable that many people who have missing teeth seek treatment they can so that they can get on with their lives. One of the most successful and satisfying ways that this can be done is by replacing the tooth root and connecting a replica tooth onto the abutment which can be done at any dental practice.

In Melbourne, dental implants are very popular. This procedure allows people to get their beautiful smile back. The treatment is permanent, and the results are astounding. The false teeth can be hardly recognised from the original teeth and dentists make sure that they take the time to match the crown to the shape and size of a patient’s natural teeth for the most natural look.

How does it work?
The implant itself is a small titanium screw that is digitally positioned for ultimate comfort, durability and alignment. It integrates perfectly with the rest of the teeth and into the gum tissue, fusing with the jawbone over time to create a lasting bond that is a part of the body.

It is surgically placed into the jaw and simply acts as a replacement tooth root. This means that jawbone recession does not occur as it can do with dentures or when a person has missing teeth. This natural occurrence is simply a way for the body to not expend energy unnecessarily.

Depending on a person’s condition of their mouth and jawbone, the crown abutment; the part of the implant that is visible, can be immediately put into the mouth or the mouth needs to be given some healing time before this can be done.

There is some healing time of a couple of months whilst this new addition to the mouth fuses with the jawbone and is accepted by the gum tissue. With appropriate care, infection is to be avoided which can result in the rejection of the screw, however this is very rare.

It will feel like a natural tooth that the patient can use comfortable. It is a permanent fixture in the mouth and is therefore not needed to be removed. Patients can bite and chew normally and the crown itself should not be recognisable from other teeth.

The advantages alone of having a natural and complete smile that is fully functional and lasting a lifetime should be enough to warrant joy in the patient. However, there are many other benefits regarding their oral health which further makes this treatment a wonderful option for anyone who has had the misfortune of losing a tooth by any means.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.