Replacing missing teeth is crucial for oral health — and dental implants have revolutionized how it is done.
Dental implants offer a natural appearance and functional alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. But what are they and how do they work?
This article explores dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Leaving a space where a tooth once was can be dangerous for your oral health. After all, each tooth relies on the one next to it for support. When one tooth is missing, the adjacent and opposing teeth will slowly begin to move. The result? Overcrowded, tipped teeth and a greater risk of tooth decay, bone loss and misaligned bites. Without an opposing tooth, some teeth may begin to drop down or rise up.
Dental implants are the perfect solution. Not only do they fill the void, but they do so with a natural-appearing, highly functional tooth replacement. It includes an artificial root that holds a stunning custom crown in place and helps maintain bone levels.
Here’s a closer look.
The dental implant itself is a small titanium post that is surgically placed in the jaw bone where it is left to undergo a process known as osseointegration. This is when the post fuses with the bone, creating a strong anchor. Then, once it is ready, an abutment is placed on top which will securely hold the dental crown.
This is done in your dentist’s office using local anesthetic.
The entire process can take several months from start to finish. Thankfully, dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth. If they are well-cared for, they have been known to last for a lifetime — which means only having to go through the process once.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Are dental implants really better than other tooth replacement options? Below are a few benefits.
- Natural appearance. Dental implants are made to blend in perfectly with your real teeth. No one will be able to recognize that it is a dental crown.
- Function Independently. Implants do not negatively affect any of the teeth next to them. If a bridge is used to replace a tooth it requires significant reduction of the adjacent teeth which increases the strain on those teeth.
- Strength and durability. Implants are designed to last, especially with good oral hygiene habits. They are a long-term solution.
- Enhanced smile. Dental implants restore your smile, creating one you can feel good about.
- Boosted confidence. There is no denying that when you feel good about your smile, your confidence is likely to soar, too.
- Improved oral health. When you address missing teeth, you improve your oral health and prevent bone loss.
Dental implants can have a positive impact on your quality of life, whether missing one tooth or many.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
While most people are candidates for dental implants, not everyone is. Before you will be able to move forward with the procedure, you will first have a consultation with your dentist to determine if dental implants would be a successful option for you.
If you are a good candidate, then a date will be set to have the artificial root surgically implanted into your jawbone.
Good candidates for dental implants typically have:
- Good oral health
- Good overall health
- Good bone density
- Patience
Any oral health issues you have must be cleared up before moving forward with the procedure. If you are a smoker, this increases your risk of complications by 10 – 20%. We always recommend discontinuing smoking prior to implant placement and for 2 months after.
Transform Your Smile at Creekview Dental
Are you ready to transform your smile with beautiful, strong dental implants? While the cost of doing so is often over $5,000 per tooth, the team at Creekview Dental has a deal for you. We are currently offering a promotion to new and existing patients for a dental implant package for just $3,995.
If you have a missing tooth that needs a replacement, now is your chance. We’ve been placing successful dental implants for nearly two decades.
Contact us today for more information — and to schedule an appointment.
