Breaking a tooth is a common dental emergency that can be painful and negatively impact your smile and self-confidence. Fortunately, dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking solution for replacing lost or damaged teeth. In this article, you will discover how dental implants can help with a broken tooth and why they are considered one of the best options for dental restoration.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small, titanium screws that are placed in the jawbone to replace the roots of missing or severely damaged teeth. After placement, they bond with the bone through a process called osseointegration. This provides a stable base on which a crown (the visible part of the tooth) can be attached. Dental implants not only offer a natural-looking replacement for broken teeth but also function just like your own teeth, allowing you to eat, talk, and laugh without worry.
Benefits of dental implants for a broken tooth
- Durability and functionality: Dental implants are designed to last and provide the same functionality as natural teeth. They withstand daily chewing forces and, with proper care, can last a very long time.
- Prevention of bone loss: When a tooth is lost, the jawbone that supported the tooth begins to deteriorate. This can lead to further dental problems. Dental implants stimulate the bone just like natural tooth roots, helping to prevent bone loss.
- Aesthetic benefits: A broken tooth can affect your smile and self-confidence. A dental implant offers a natural-looking replacement that is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
- Protection of existing teeth: Unlike bridges, which often require adjacent teeth to be filed down, implants do not require adjustments to your other teeth.
How is a broken tooth replaced?
If you have a broken tooth, it will first be carefully extracted, followed by the placement of a dental implant. During a consultation, the implantologist first assesses your jawbone via a CBCT scan. If an implant is deemed suitable, it is surgically placed under local anesthesia into your jawbone.
The implant then needs several months to integrate with the bone, a process known as “osseointegration.” Sometimes, immediate loading may also be used. Once the implant is firmly anchored, a permanent crown is made that matches the color and shape of your other teeth. This crown is then attached to the implant, restoring a complete and functional tooth. Want to know more about what you can expect after the procedure? Read this article.
Aftercare and maintenance
After dental implants are placed, good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining your implants. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist for checkups and cleaning are essential for proper maintenance.
Dental implants: the ideal solution for broken teeth!
Unfortunately, broken teeth occur and bring many disadvantages. For anyone dealing with a broken tooth and looking for a durable solution, dental implants offer an excellent option. They not only restore the functionality of your teeth but also ensure your smile is complete again.
Are you looking for professional advice on dental implants or would you like to discuss the options of the procedure? Contact specialist Doctor Frank Vanhove here!
