Implants

Dental implants are artificial teeth that are permanently placed into your jawbone. They are typically made of titanium, a strong, durable metal. The implant acts as an anchor for the replacement tooth. The replacement tooth is permanently fixed to the implant and blends in with the rest of your natural teeth.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Dental implants are placed during a minor oral surgery procedure. When the procedure is completed, most patients are able to return to their daily routines right away.

The dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue. Then, they will drill a small hole, which is where the dental implant will be placed. The titanium post will be screwed into the jawbone, which will act as the replacement tooth’s root.

It typically takes three to six months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. After the implant site has healed, a second surgery is performed to attach an abutment to the dental implant and place the implant crown.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a permanent solution that allows you to restore your teeth without worrying that you may break or lose them in the future. Implants are also better than other restorations because they are more aesthetically pleasing and make it easier to eat the foods you used to love.

Implants provide patients with many benefits, including the following:

• Longevity and durability

Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently anchored into the jawbone. This means that you won’t have to worry about them falling out, moving out of place, or feeling uncomfortable.

• Prevent jawbone loss

Tooth loss can have a significant impact on the health of your jawbone. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that can help prevent jawbone loss.

• Preserve facial structure

When tooth loss affects the jawbone, facial features like cheeks and lips can start to sag. Missing teeth can also affect the way you bite and chew and cause additional wear and tear on your remaining teeth. Dental implants prevent this and preserve facial structure.

• Eat and speak with ease

Dental implants are versatile and can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even all of your teeth. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, which allows you to eat and speak with ease.

Are dental implants painful?

Dental implants are not painful. In fact, most of our patients report that the procedure is no more painful than having a cavity filled. Prior to your procedure, you will be administered local anesthesia to numb the area where the implant will be placed. If you are nervous or anxious about your procedure, you can discuss sedation options with our dentists.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stevenson or Dr. Cyr, book online or call All Smiles Family Dentistry at (319) 553-3085.