Dental implant technology gives your dentist options when it comes to replacing teeth that are missing in your mouth. When you need to have a tooth pulled and you don't want to rely on a partial denture, implants are a permanent solution. Your dentist will use a titanium rod that acts like the root of your natural tooth. The rod embeds into your jaw, creating an attachment point for a new crown. The rod and crown attach together, giving you a new, permanent tooth in your mouth. Once an implant is complete, you don't have to treat your implant any differently than you do your natural teeth.

Preparing For a Dental Implant

Your dentist will want to know if you are a smoker or if you have diabetes that is not under control. People who smoke are a risk for dental implant failure, and it is not recommended that you get dental implants if you are a smoker. In addition, if you have blood sugar levels that are not in control, you don't have a strong ability to heal. If you quit smoking, you can get dental implants to repair your smile. When you are a diabetic, you will need to get your blood sugar levels under control first.

How Dental Implants Are Used

Whether you have one missing tooth or a series of missing teeth, dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth. In the case of more than one tooth in a row, your dentist may create a dental bridge that will secure into your mouth with titanium rods. Unlike one missing tooth, you may not need one rod per missing tooth if you have several missing in a row. You can also use dental implant technology to provide a strong attachment point in your mouth for dentures. While you can still take out the dentures, implants can eliminate your need for denture adhesives.

Restoring Your Smile

Some dentists start with the titanium rod and allow it to embed in your jaw for several months before putting on the crown, while others complete the procedure in one day. Talk with your dentist about your options and see what strategy works best for you.

When you are looking to permanently replace missing teeth, dental implants are the answer. You can have a natural smile without having to worry about treating your implants differently. With good oral hygiene, your implants can last forever.