Traumatic injuries can affect our bones, muscles, skin, and teeth. Injuries to teeth most often happen as a result of sports injuries or similar accidents. Chips make up most injuries to the teeth. More severe dental injuries include dislodged or knocked out teeth. Treatment and prognosis of the dental injury depends on several factors, such as the severity and type of the injury, and the location of the injury in the oral cavity. It is imperative that anyone who experiences a dental injury seek the attention of a dentist or endodontist immediately. This is, in part, due to the fact that adjacent teeth can suffer silent, but serious injuries.
These injuries can only be detected by a trained professional doing a thorough dental exam. Endodontists are dentists with specialized training to treat traumatic dental injuries. Many times these professionals can save injured teeth. If they cannot save an injured tooth, they have training to provide a dental implant.
Saving the natural tooth is always the first treatment goal. However, it is not always possible, or in the best interest of the patient, to do so. Even the best implant or bridge cannot replace a natural tooth. If you have to have a natural tooth removed, you should consider a dental implant to replace the tooth. Missing a tooth or several teeth can impact more than just how you look. It can affect your overall health, your ability to chew, and your self-confidence.
What is a Dental Implant
Dental implants are a newer technology to replace missing teeth. It is a fake tooth with a root that is placed directly into the jaw bone. The fake tooth and its root are close to same size and shape of the tooth that has been lost. The dental implant is placed surgically into the jaw. It is usually made of titanium and other materials compatible with the human body. Overtime, jaw bone grows into the root, making it more stable than a simple bridge or other tooth replacement. Dental implants can be used for a single tooth, several teeth, or can be partial or full dentures.
How is the Implant Placed?
The answer to this question can vary, depending on the needs of the patient, the type of implant and the location and number of teeth being replaced. Some types of implants can be completed in one day. In general, the implant root is first placed into the jaw and the gum is surgically brought around it. In some cases, the second step is done the same day, and in other cases it is done a few months later. The second step involves attachment of the extension, also known as the abutment, to the actual implant. The crown, or the visual part of the fake tooth, is then placed on the foundation. The crown is unique to each patient and made to be the right size, shape, and color to match the natural teeth.
With the best dental implants Houston offers, OMSH helps you achieve the look, health, and confidence you deserve after you have sustained tooth loss associated with a traumatic injury. You should discuss dental implants cost with your oral and maxillofacial surgeons, as well as your insurance company. Sometimes the circumstances of your tooth loss may determine whether your health or dental insurance covers the cost of dental implants. We at OMSH are here to help! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
