What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that serve as artificial tooth roots. Placed directly into the jawbone, they provide a stable base for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Why Choose Implants Over Other Tooth Replacement Options?
When considering how to replace a missing tooth, it’s important to weigh the benefits of each option. While bridges and dentures can be effective, implants offer unique advantages:
- Prevents Bone Loss: When a tooth is missing, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate over time. Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain its strength and structure.
- No Impact on Neighboring Teeth: Unlike bridges, which require support from adjacent teeth, implants function independently without compromising surrounding teeth.
- Natural Feel and Function: Implants are designed to look, feel, and perform like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
- Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective investment in your oral health.
Are Dental Implants Noticeable?
Not at all. The implant itself is hidden beneath the gumline, and the restoration placed on top—whether a crown, bridge, or denture—is custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. No one will know you have an implant unless you tell them.
What Is the Process Like?
Getting a dental implant is a multi-step process, but each step is essential to ensuring long-term success:
- Consultation and Planning – We assess your oral health, jawbone density, and overall suitability for implants.
- Implant Placement – A titanium post is placed in the jawbone, where it will integrate and fuse with the bone.
- Healing Period – The jawbone heals around the implant, creating a strong foundation. The process, called osseointegration, can take a few months.
- Restoration Placement – Once the implant is fully integrated, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached, completing your new smile.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience. Most patients report minimal discomfort, often comparing it to a routine extraction. Any post-procedure soreness is manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and subsides within a few days.
How Long Do Implants Last?
With proper care, implants can last forever. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits help ensure their longevity. Unlike natural teeth, implants don’t decay, but keeping your gums healthy is essential for maintaining long-term stability.