Dental implants are one option to correct a chipped tooth. Though it's not the only option, sometimes it's the best treatment for chipped teeth whenever the tooth is severely cracked and other methods won't adequately save the tooth. So let's discuss more about dental implants, such as "How long does it take to fix a chipped tooth with dental implants?"
Before you receive a dental implant, our dentist will evaluate you. In some cases, the best treatment for chipped teeth is bonding or a cap, filling, or veneer. These treatments allow you to keep your natural tooth and tend to be more cost-efficient.
During the examination, our dentist will assess the tooth and see how much damage there is. Our practitioner will then provide you with options that'll work in your situation. You'll receive a rundown of each option, how long they last, and the price to help you decide on the ideal solution for you. In some cases, it may be dental implants.
If a tooth has an untreated crack, infection can enter and spread throughout the tooth. It can even reach the tooth's root, which will cause you pain and make it difficult for you to eat on that side of your mouth. The infection can spread to the surrounding teeth as well.
When we fix your damaged tooth with a dental implant, the first part of the procedure consists of removing the cracked tooth. This process is relatively straightforward. The dental practitioner will use a device called an elevator to loosen the tooth root from the gum. Next, the practitioner will use a pair of forceps to extract the tooth. Fortunately, this process doesn't cause much pain since you're given a local anesthetic and possibly a sedative, depending on your desires. After the procedure, the area will feel sore for a few days.
Typically, you'll need to let the socket heal for 12 to 14 weeks before you start the dental implant process to replace the missing tooth.
At your next visit with Taylorview Dental, our dentist will evaluate how well your socket healed. If it's fully healed, your practitioner will schedule a procedure date. On the other hand, you may need to wait a bit more time if it's not fully healed. During this visit, you'll receive x-rays taken of the jaw to help our practitioner establish an appropriate course of action.
Firstly, let’s discuss the answer to, “How long does it take to fix a chipped tooth with dental implants?” As a general rule, it can take a few months because it requires two or more procedures, depending on your situation. The process of placing the implant tends to take an hour, though.
On the first surgery day, you’ll receive either a sedative or anesthesia to prevent you from feeling any discomfort or pain. Then, your practitioner will use a scalpel to make an incision in the gum where he or she will situate the implant. Next, the dentist will use a dental tool to drill tiny holes to position the implant, which will act as your implant’s tooth root. The practitioner will then situate the implant. You’ll receive stitches where the implant is to help the gum heal properly. They’re dissolvable so, in about two weeks, they’ll no longer be in your mouth. At this point, the dentist may place a temporary artificial tooth in the gap so you can continue to eat and speak normally. You also won’t have to feel self-conscious.
You won’t have your procedure to receive the crown until you heal from the implant surgery. This requires your jawbone to grow around the implant to ensure the dentist can place the artificial tooth on a solid foundation.
Once the healing happens, our dentist will schedule another appointment to position the artificial tooth. The entire process for this takes between 30 minutes to an hour.
Dental implants are sometimes the best treatment for chipped teeth when other more conservative methods aren't enough. The process may take a few visits, but it's worth it to maintain your smile and ability to chew and eat normally when you have a damaged tooth.
Contact us today if you have a chipped tooth to discuss your options. We're available by calling 208-522-4491.
