Dentist’s Advice for Covering Missing Teeth While Waiting for Implants

Dental implants offer a permanent solution to gaps in your smile, but getting them is a multi-step process. That means there are times when you’ll still have missing teeth. Carrington Square Dental is the best restorative dentist near you to get you both a temporary smile during the implant process and a permanent smile that you’ll love. Below are some of your options, and we can offer personalized suggestions during your appointment. 

Why Do You Wait for Permanent Implants?

Getting dental implants involves placing screws into your jawbone to anchor the replacement teeth. However, before that, we have to treat any existing oral health problems like tooth decay, gum disease, or bone loss. Then, after we place the implants, we have to wait for a process called osseointegration, when the screws slowly integrate into your jawbone. Only then can we install your permanent replacement tooth. 

However, we know you’re looking for a nearby dental implant dentist because you want to correct your smile now. If you need care to restore your health before implants, you may need to go even longer with a gap in your teeth. Whatever your situation, we find ways to get you immediate coverage for missing teeth while we continue to work on a long-term solution. 

How Long Do You Have to Wait?

Osseointegration can’t be rushed. Additionally, the more work we need to do to boost your oral health prior to the procedure, the longer the overall process will take. 

As a result, depending on the situation, getting dental implants could take up to six months. The timeline varies for each person, so we can give you a more customized idea when you come in for an appointment. 

Temporary Option 1: Dentures 

Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that are custom-made to fit your mouth. They can be made from a variety of materials, including acrylic, porcelain, and metal. Since they are typically held in place with adhesive or metal clasps, dentures are easy to remove for cleaning.

These are a popular choice for covering missing teeth, especially if you have a larger gap in your smile or are even missing all of your upper or lower teeth. However, we can create dentures for smaller gaps, making this a versatile option. 

Temporary Option 2: Flippers

A flipper is a removable partial denture that is used to cover a single missing tooth. It is made from a lightweight acrylic material and is held in place by clasps that attach to the surrounding teeth. Flippers are a popular temporary option if you’re just missing one tooth, since they are affordable and easy to use.

Temporary Option 3: Crowns

A temporary crown is one of the most common ways we cover gaps in your smile while waiting for your permanent implant. The crown is placed on the implant post much like your permanent replacement tooth will. It is typically made from acrylic or composite resin and is designed to look and function like a natural tooth.

Get Temporary and Permanent Implant Care at Carrington Square Dental

At Carrington Square Dental, we guide you through the entire process of restoring your smile by covering up missing teeth. Temporary solutions can help you feel more confident while you wait for permanent implants, and permanent implants can protect your oral health long-term. Contact us for a consultation with a dentist who does implants near you.