Are you missing a tooth? More than one? If so, then you know that missing teeth can impact more than just your appearance—they can make it difficult to chew, speak, and maintain good oral health.
Thankfully, there is a solution. Dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking replacement that will restore your smile, regardless of why you lost your tooth.
This article explores how dental implants can restore your smile and improve your oral health.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that acts as an artificial root. It is surgically inserted into the jawbone and undergoes a process known as osseointegration, which is when the post fuses with the bone. The result? A sturdy anchor is created to hold the artificial tooth in place.
Alternatives, such as dental bridges, rely on the surrounding teeth for support, while dental implants do not. This allows for a great amount of stability and longevity.
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are many reasons why dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement. Let’s take a look.
Restored Functionality. Dental implants restore the ability to chew so that you can eat and nourish your body without difficulty. It works much like a natural tooth.
Natural Appearance. Because they are custom-created, your dental implant will not only function like a real tooth, but it will look like one, too. It will match the color and shape of your teeth so that it blends in beautifully.
Maintain Bone Health. Your jawbone deteriorates after tooth loss. However, with a dental implant, bone loss can be prevented, which in turn preserves your facial structure, as well.
Better Oral Hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing are essential when you have a dental implant. Because you care for it just like your natural teeth, maintaining oral hygiene is easy.
Longevity. Dental implants can last a lifetime with the proper care. This makes them a cost-effective and dependable solution now and in the future.
The Dental Implant Process: An Overview
The process for dental implants involves several steps that can vary for some patients.
After your consultation to determine whether or not you are a candidate for treatment, you will have the implant placed in the jawbone. This is left to heal to allow for the osseointegration to take place.
Once the dentist feels that the anchor is sturdy enough, an abutment is placed that will hold the custom-created crown. The overall process may take several months, but most patients are extremely pleased with the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults who have good oral health and adequate bone density are usually candidates for dental implants. Any underlying issues, such as gum disease or bone loss, will have to be addressed before proceeding with the procedure.
Are dental implants painful?
The process of getting the implants is not painful, as it is done under local anesthesia. There may be temporary discomfort when it wears off, but it is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
At Boulder Dental, we believe everyone deserves a healthy, happy smile that gives them confidence. If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be the perfect solution. Our experienced team is here to help you transform your oral health. Contact us today at to get started.