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The Next Step to a Better Smile
For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are widely agreed to be a superior replacement solution. Combining a natural appearance with extreme durability for long-lasting results, only implants can enhance your smile while protecting your oral health. Explore our guide to learn more about this treatment.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is made up of three parts — a titanium implant fixture that’s placed in your jaw, a small connecting piece called an abutment, and your choice of restoration to complete the implant. Because of this unique structure, this permanent procedure offers unrivaled stability and function.
What is the Dental Implant Process?
The implant process begins with a consultation where Dr. Grubb will examine your oral health. Next, you’ll return to our office so we can place your implant. You’ll have to allow a recovery period of three to six months, so your implant fixture can properly align with your jawbone. Once this is finished, we can top the implant with your choice of restoration, leaving you with a healthy and beautiful new smile.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
The key to dental implants is a process known as osseointegration, in which your implant fixture fuses with your jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. In order for osseointegration to succeed, you must have sufficient jawbone density and healthy gums. If you don’t, then supplemental treatments can usually prepare you for implant placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are implants considered the best restorations?
The reasons for this are due to the exclusive benefits that are only found in dental implants. For example, they’re the only solution that can prevent your jawbone from shrinking. Combined with their unparallelled ability to restore chewing and speaking function, it’s clear that implants are the healthiest restorative treatment.
What are the three parts of a dental implant?
An implant is comprised of a titanium fixture that’s placed in your jaw, a connecting piece called an abutment, and a natural-looking restoration which is typically a porcelain crown. These three components each serve a key purpose that gives implants the stunning appearance and durability they’re known for.
Why are dental implants so durable and stable?
The durability of dental implants is the result of osseointegration. Osseointegration refers to the process of how your jawbone integrates seamlessly with the titanium implant fixture. Titanium is one of very few materials that has the biocompatibility and durability to facilitate implant placement.
How do I clean my dental implants?
Unlike dentures, implants are extremely easy to clean. You’ll care for them just like your natural teeth by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
How long do dental implants last?
Another major advantage of implants is that they’re the longest-lasting restorative treatment. With proper care, they can last for decades, or even a lifetime!
If I can’t afford implants, what are my other options?
If implants are beyond your price range at the moment, then it’s still better to replace missing teeth with another solution rather than none at all. The two most popular alternatives to dental implants are dentures and a dental bridge, both of which are highly affordable in comparison. For your convenience, we also offer flexible financing options so you can get the care you need without feeling left in a pinch.
Visit Dr. Grubb for Dental Implants
If you’re interested in replacing missing teeth with dental implants, contact our practice in Havre de Grace and schedule a consultation with Dr. Grubb. He’ll listen to your smile goals and determine if dental implants are the best treatment solution for your smile.