A missing tooth is not something that you want to take lightly, since it can do more than just cause an imperfection in your smile. That's why a dental implant can be a great solution to your problem with missing teeth. Here are some questions you may have about dental implants if you are serious about getting one.

Is It Worth Getting Just One Dental Implant?

You may assume that a single missing tooth is not worth the trouble of getting a dental implant. However, don't make your decision based on the quantity of dental implants that you need. Dental implants can be used to restore a single missing tooth and make your smile look natural once again, as well as help improve your overall oral health.

A common problem caused by a missing tooth is that the surrounding teeth tend to drift towards the center of the gap. If you had braces in the past, you're well aware of how difficult it will be to shift those teeth back into the proper position later on. The implant itself also provides stimulation to the jawbone to keep it healthy. This is why it is better to get a dental implant earlier rather than later.

Can The Fake Tooth Be Removed?

A dental crown will be placed on the titanium post once the dental implant procedure is finished. While this crown can be removed by a dentist, it is not something that can be removed on your own afterward. The implant is designed to be a permanent fixture of your mouth. If you feel that the implant is not set right and causing problems with your natural bite, you can always return to the dentist and have them make adjustments.

Does The Dental Implant Process Take A Long Time?

Be aware that it will take several months for the entire dental implant process to be complete, but you will not have a gap in your teeth until then. Your dentist will place a temporary crown on the implant while the surgical site heals and the titanium post integrates with your jawbone. This allows you to have the aesthetic portion of the procedure solved quite quickly, with the permanent solution coming a bit later once your jawbone accepts the implant.

Have more questions about getting a dental implant? Reach out to a dentist in your area for a consultation. They'll let you know if you are a good candidate for this unique dental procedure.