While it is unfortunate, there are times when a blow to the face or severe tooth decay can cause so much damage to a tooth that it needs to be extracted. Eventually, the tooth will need to be replaced.
If the lost tooth is not replaced, the surrounding teeth will eventually start to twist and migrate to fill the void. This can lead to alignment issues and other complications. One of the most effective ways to prevent this problem is to have the extracted tooth replaced with a dental implant.
Your Algiers Dental Associates dentist will first need to examine the area and take a few X-rays. If the extraction process resulted in the loss of bone structure, we might recommend receiving a bone graft. This will effectively restore sufficient jaw structure to securely anchor a dental implant.
A dental implant in New Orleans, Louisiana, can be installed in a single outpatient appointment, requiring full sedation. This means you will need a friend or family member drive you home after your appointment.
During the procedure, an oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gums to gain direct access to your jawbone. Then, a narrow channel will be made in the bone and a titanium abutment will be screwed into place. Titanium is known to be biologically safe and will eventually fuse to your bones to create a very strong anchor for a future crown.
After your gums have healed and the titanium abutment has fused to your jawbone, Dr. John Hobgood can then take an impression of the area. This will be used as a guide for a dental lab technician to produce your final crown. With proper care and cleaning, your newly restored tooth should serve you for many years to come.
If you have lost a tooth or had one previously extracted, you should call Algiers Dental Associates at 504-361-3277 to see if you’re a good candidate for a dental implant.