
What Are Dental Implants?
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are the highest quality tooth replacement option because of the following benefits:
- Natural function. A dental implant functions like a natural tooth, offering the same bite force and chewing strength as a healthy tooth.
- Natural appearance. Because it attaches to the jaw the same way a natural tooth does, a dental implant with a porcelain crown looks very natural and blends in with the rest of your existing teeth.
- Preserves bone structure of the jaw. When a tooth is missing the support structures for that tooth will deteriorate and eventually dissolve, leaving a deficient spot in your jaw. But replacing a tooth with a dental implant preserves the bone structure in your jaw and keeps it healthy.
- Can last a lifetime. A dental implant is made of titanium, a biocompatible material that easily fuses with the bone in your jaw. Once the fusion (called osseointegration) has taken place, the bond can last for the rest of your life.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
If you have a tooth that was recently lost or extracted, or a tooth that is too damaged to be saved, you are most likely a good candidate for a dental implant. An issue may arise if your tooth has been missing for a long time, such as many months or years. When a tooth has been missing for a significant period of time the jaw bone will likely be too deficient to support a dental implant. However, there is a solution. A bone graft procedure can replace deficient bone by placing a bone graft under the gum tissue that will encourage regeneration so that an implant can be placed later.
Why Choose Lakeville Dental?
Have you avoided getting a tooth replaced because you’re not comfortable in the dentist’s chair? At Lakeville Dental, we understand that dental anxiety is very real for many patients, which is why we are dedicated to practicing comfort dentistry. Our office has a variety of comforts as well as sedation options to help you feel calm and relaxed. We have massage chairs, soft blankets, leg wedges, pillows and televisions over every chair to make you feel more comfortable. You can also choose to have nitrous oxide or conscious oral sedation for a deeper level of relaxation. Together we will discuss all of the options to find the best way for you to get the dental care you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
The primary difference between a dental implant and a bridge is the way they are supported. A bridge attaches to the healthy teeth with crowns on either side of a missing tooth. The existing teeth support the bridge, which can eventually cause damage to the support teeth, not to mention the loss of enamel required to fit the crowns. A dental implant has no effect on your other teeth, making it a healthier and more sustainable option.