Dental Implant Temporary Tooth
A relatively new solution for the replacement of missing teeth which is quickly gaining popularity is dental implants. The main advantages associated with dental implants are their unique ability to function and appear just like the natural teeth. In most cases, implants are created from titanium. A metal post is surgically placed in the jawbone. Once the mouth has healed, a dental crown is placed on top of the implant. This gives the implant its natural, tooth-like appearance. Dental crowns are custom-made for each patient to ensure they match the existing teeth.
Dental implants are an incredibly effective solution used to replace missing teeth. The implant process begins with the dentist surgically placing the implant in the jaw bone. Before the crown can be placed, the implant needs to heal. During the natural healing process, the implant fuses to the jaw bone. Patients are often concerned that they will have an apparent missing tooth while the implant heals. When the missing tooth is located in the front of the mouth, this can be especially concerning. There are fortunately solutions for patients to aid in concealing the missing tooth during this healing process.
The dental implant procedure typically includes two steps and two separate procedures. The initial step includes an oral surgeon strategically drilling a small hole into the jawbone where the dental implant is to be placed. The implant area is covered by the gum during the healing period where the bone fuses to the implant. The second step of the procedure involves the oral surgeon placing a device on the base of the implant where the crown or prosthetic tooth is attached. Once the procedure is complete, patients can enjoy their new implant. Another benefit associated with implants is that they are cared for just like the natural teeth and do not require special treatment. Some patients require an additional procedure such as a bone graft before they are ready to receive an implant.
In order for an implant to be successful, it must fuse to the jaw bone in a process which is called osseointegration. Because of this, the body must have adequate time to heal. For the implant to be able to withstand chewing forces and last, the implant must fuse to the jawbone and completely heal. While it varies for each patient, the healing process typically takes a few months.
It is common for patients to be interested in their temporary tooth options during this recovery time between the two procedures. Patients who are having an implant placed in the back of their mouth may not be as concerned with this as it is more conspicuous. When implants are placed towards the front of the mouth, however, patients often opt for a temporary tooth to conceal their missing tooth. Below is a summary of the most common temporary tooth options available to patients.
An especially popular solution is a dental flipper. Dental flippers can also be called an acrylic removable partial denture. This temporary tooth is similar to a retainer which contains a false tooth or temporary denture. Patients must remove their flipper each night for thorough cleaning. In addition, it must be removed when the patient is eating.
Retainers and another popular option patients can use for temporarily replacing their missing tooth. A retainer covers all of the teeth and hides the gap where the missing tooth is located.
Temporary crowns can also be used during the healing process for an implant. A temporary crown is placed on the base of the implant. Patients are provided with specific restrictions and instructions for care of the crown. It is common for dentists to give implant patients a choice between a temporary crown and a healing cap. Temporary crowns are often considered to be more attractive and more closely mimic the crown which will be placed on the implant.
For some patients, the dentist is able to place an immediate temporary or permanent crown during or shortly after the implant procedure. Patients should discuss this option with their dentist as there are specific qualifications which must be met for possible candidates.
A temporary bridge may also be used to cover the gap created by a missing tooth. Temporary bridges are usually acrylic and use the adjacent teeth to bridge the space with an artificial tooth in between.
When permanent dental bridges are used, there is a disturbance of the surrounding teeth. This should not be the case, however, with a temporary bridge as the adjacent teeth simply act as an anchor. Once the implant heals, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent crown is placed. Temporary bridges are quite sturdy and comfortable for patients to wear.
Temporary tooth replacement options should be discuss with the dentist during the initial implant consultation. During this time, the dentist can help determine which solution will best meet the patient’s needs.