Missing front teeth can not only make it harder to eat and speak clearly, but it can also be extremely embarrassing. If you’ve been curious about your front tooth replacement options, the great news is that dental implants may be able to help. Here’s what you should know about this treatment, and how to tell if your smile qualifies!
Is it Possible to Replace a Front Tooth with a Dental Implant?
When many people think of dental implants, they think about replacing a missing back tooth that may or may not be obvious in your smile. Unfortunately, however, back teeth aren’t the only ones that occasionally need to be replaced. The great news is that dental implants can restore even front teeth. In fact, if you’re in good oral health and have a strong jawbone, you can replace a tooth anywhere in your mouth with this treatment!
What is the Process for Replacing a Front Tooth?
The first step to replacing a front tooth with dental implants is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. During this visit, you’ll receive an oral health exam, X-rays and possibly other imaging. They may also take measurements of your jaw, and impressions of your existing teeth if they need to be extracted. Should you require any preliminary treatments such as a bone graft or gum disease therapy, your dentist will need to address these first. Your dental team will then give you an estimated cost for your entire treatment.
If your mouth is in good health, or once you have restored it, your dentist can place your dental implant. Following surgery, it will need to fuse to the bone via osseointegration, which takes three to six months. After this process is completed, you will return to your dentist again to have your abutment placed. This is the part that connects the replacement tooth to the implant. While you heal from this minor procedure, the dental lab will create your crown, and after healing you’ll return to your dentist one last time to have the crown attached.
Taking Care of Your Dental Implants
To make your new dental implants last as long as possible, it’s very important to care for them properly. The good news is that this is very easy: just brush your teeth twice daily, floss once a day, and visit your dentist for your regular preventive exam and cleaning every six months. Furthermore, be sure to avoid bad oral habits such as consuming tobacco products, using your teeth as tools, and not protecting them if you grind your teeth or play sports. Although these restorations have an astounding 95 percent success rate, even front implants can fail if not properly maintained.
Remember, it is possible to replace front teeth with the help of durable, beautiful dental implants! If you’re ready to stop hiding your gorgeous smile, speak to your dentist today about your options!
About Dr. Schumacher
Dr. Rob Schumacher earned his undergraduate degree at Asbury College and his dental degree at the University of Kentucky and the University of Michigan. A nationally board-certified prosthodontist, Dr. Schumacher is also a member of the American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Association, American College of Prosthodontics, North Shore Dental Society, and the Tri County Study Club. To schedule a dental implant consultation at Schumacher Dental, visit our website or call us today at 781-334-3400.