Millions of Americans have one or more missing teeth, and millions more are stuck wearing ill-fitting dentures that slip when they try to speak or eat a delicious meal. At Golden Hill Family Dentistry, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful, fully functional smile, and dental implants are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement.
A dental implant is a biocompatible root replacement that stimulates your jawbone and makes it possible to smile with confidence and bite down with ease. In this guide to dental implants, we aim to demystify the implant process and help you make the best decision for your smile and your busy lifestyle.
What Exactly is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is comprised of three different parts:
- The post — This is a titanium “screw” that we surgically place into your jaw. It mimics your missing tooth’s roots, providing a stable foundation for your dental crown. In a process known as osseointegration, the implant will fuse with your jawbone and create a permanent bond.
- The abutment — This connector piece is added to the dental implant and will hold your dental crown in place.
- The crown — Once your mouth has healed, we’ll complete the implant process with a custom dental crown. It will blend seamlessly with your other teeth, so no one will know you have it!
Why Choose Implants Over Dentures or Bridges?
Although traditional dentures and dental bridges are both adequate and effective ways to replace one or more missing teeth, dental implants are superior for the following reasons:
- Bone preservation — Dental implants stimulate your jawbone and preserve its density, keeping your face from appearing sunken.
- Longevity — Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, while a dental bridge or denture only lasts about 10 years.
- Lifestyle — When you choose dental implants to restore your smile, you can eat steak, apples, and crunchy foods without hesitation. You’ll be thrilled with the results.
Are You a Candidate? (The Checklist)
You may be curious as to whether dental implants will work for your smile.
Here’s a quick checklist to consider:
- Healthy teeth and gums — You must have healthy teeth and gums before an implant procedure. If you have tooth decay or gum disease, we need to treat it beforehand.
- Adequate bone density — You must have enough bone density to support a dental implant; if you’re lacking bone density, a bone grafting procedure can often restore your jaw.
- General health — Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can affect your candidacy for a dental implant procedure. Also, if you smoke, it can slow your healing process.
The Step-by-Step Journey
The dental implant process takes several months from start to finish, so it’s important to understand the step-by-step process before committing to the procedure:
- The consultation — Your journey begins with a conversation and a complete oral assessment. We will explain the procedure, answer your questions, and use 3-D imaging and x-rays to get a full view of your teeth and gums.
- The implant placement — On the day of your procedure, we’ll completely numb your mouth so that you won’t feel anything during the implant placement. And if you feel anxious, we offer nitrous oxide to keep you calm. We’ll then place your dental implant into your jaw.
- The healing phase — Over the course of the next three to six months, your implant fuses with your jawbone. This osseointegration ensures a solid foundation for your restoration.
- The final restoration — You’ll come back to our office so we can place your dental crown. We’ll check your bite and send you on your way!
Frequently Asked Questions (The Quick Hits)
Some of the most common questions we hear from patients include:
- How long does the process take? From start to finish, the dental implant takes several months, but it’s different for every person.
- Will I be without a tooth during the healing phase? No, we’ll fit you with a temporary crown while your mouth heals, so you won’t have to worry about a gap in your smile.
- What is the success rate? The success rate for dental implants is between 95% and 98% if you carefully follow the aftercare instructions.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Although the dental implant process may seem lengthy and complicated, it’s important to realize that a dental implant is more than a dental procedure; it’s an investment in your long-term oral health and self-esteem. You can be confident when you smile, knowing you’ve chosen the most durable tooth replacement solution.
Before your appointment, make sure to gather a list of your medications, your insurance information, and any questions you have.
Want to Learn More About Dental Implants in Lakewood, CO?
If you want more information about what dental implants can do for your smile, we hope you’ll reach out to us! At Golden Hill Family Dentistry, our goal is to educate our patients about their treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their oral health.
Dental implants are a fantastic tooth replacement option, so when you’re ready to schedule a consultation or appointment, we’re just a phone call away!
You can contact our office at (303) 237-1553.