| Is there another way I can have a tooth
replaced other than a bridge?
Yes. Dental implants can provide artificial
teeth that look natural and feel secure.
Dental implants can also be used to attach
full or partial dentures. Implants, however,
are not an option for everyone. Because
implants require surgery, patients must
be in good health, have healthy gums,
have adequate bone to support the implant
and be committed to meticulous oral hygiene
and regular dental visits. If you are
considering implants, a thorough evaluation
by your dentist will help determine if
you would be a good candidate.
What is involved in placing implants? First, surgery is performed to place the
anchor. Surgery can take up to several
hours, and up to six months may be required
for the bone to grow around the anchor
and firmly hold it in place. Some implants
require a second surgery in which a post
is attached to connect the anchor to
the replacement teeth. With other implants,
the anchor and post are already attached
and are placed at the same time.
After the gums have had several weeks
to heal, the next step is begun. The
artificial teeth are made and fitted
to the post portion of the anchor. Because
several fittings may be required, this
step can take one to two months to complete.
Implant surgery can be done either in
a dental office or in a hospital, depending
upon a number of factors. A local or
general anesthetic may be used. Usually
pain medications and, when necessary,
antibiotics are prescribed. Your dentist
will give you instructions on diet and
oral hygiene.
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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