The Benefits of Dental Implants
If you’re missing teeth, you’ve probably considered various options for replacing them. While dentures and partials are extremely common, dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth and restore function to your mouth. They’re a permanent, natural-looking option that works exactly like your natural teeth.
At Pearce Dental Group, we offer a wide range of tooth replacement options including single, multiple-tooth, and full arch dental implants.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Candidates for dental implants include any healthy adult who is missing one or more teeth, has a fully developed jawbone, and have healthy gum tissues. They should also be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and must have enough bone density to support the implant. Individuals who smoke or have certain medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for dental implants. We can evaluate your oral anatomy and perform a health screening to determine if you qualify.
How are Dental Implants Placed?
Dental implants are made up of three components: the implant, abutment, and crown (or other restoration if you have several missing teeth.) The implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jaw, next to other teeth. Over time, the bone will fuse to the implant, creating a permanent attachment between your jaw and the implant. Once the implant is secure, an abutment is attached to it. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the crown. Finally, the crown is attached to the abutment, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth above the gum tissues.
Dental Implant Benefits
Dental implants offer several benefits over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. Some of the benefits of dental implants include:
Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are designed to blend in seamlessly with your adjacent teeth, giving you a beautiful and natural-looking smile.
Improved speech: Missing teeth can affect your ability to speak clearly. Dental implants provide a stable and secure foundation for your replacement teeth, allowing you to speak clearly and confidently, as no bulky “plates” are getting in the way.
Improved comfort: Dental implants are comfortable and durable. Unlike removable dentures, they do not slip or move around in your mouth.
Improved chewing ability: Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods. With dental implants, you can enjoy all of your favorite foods without worrying about firm textures or cutting food up into tiny bites.
Improved oral health: Dental implants do not require any special maintenance or cleaning. Simply brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. They also benefit the teeth on either side of them, as they reduce the chances of bone loss and shifting teeth. With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime.
Caring for Dental Implants
Caring for your dental implants is easy. Simply brush and floss your smile as you normally would, and schedule regular dental checkups at our office. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of your dental implants. While implants aren’t susceptible to tooth decay, infected gum tissues can lead to bone loss and implant failure.
Dental Implants vs. Traditional Dentures
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants and traditional dentures are two of the most often chosen options. Dental implants are permanent, surgically placed into the bone, and function like natural teeth. They are also more durable and comfortable than traditional dentures, which may slip or shift in the mouth. However, dental implants do cost more upfront and require surgery to place them.
Traditional dentures, on the other hand, are removable and more affordable, but they may need to be adjusted or replaced over time. Ultimately, the choice between dental implants and traditional dentures depends on your preferences and our dentist’s recommendations.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re interested in dental implants or want to find out more, schedule a consultation with us today. During your visit, we will evaluate your oral health and determine if dental implants are a good option for your needs. Our dentists will also explain the process in detail and answer any questions you may have.
At Pearce Dental Group, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care. If you’re missing teeth, we can help you restore your smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
