Overview
Losing a tooth can be a challenging experience, affecting not only your smile but also your confidence and overall oral health. At Cornerstone Family Dentistry, we understand the emotional and physical impact of missing teeth. Our dedicated team is here to offer you a permanent and natural-looking solution with dental implants at Cornerstone Family Dentistry. Any of our providers can offer a consultation to best evaluate your needs. Dr. Peterson and Dr. Jackie will provide your implant services with excellence. We pride ourselves on providing gentle, compassionate care that makes restoring your smile as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are innovative dental restorations designed to replace missing teeth. They consist of three main components:
Implant Post:
A titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth.
Abutment:
A connector attaches to the implant post and holds the replacement tooth or crown.
Crown:
A custom-made prosthetic tooth attached to the abutment provides a natural appearance and restores function.
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement due to their durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them an excellent choice for tooth replacement:
- Natural Look and Feel: Implants mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
- Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a long-term investment in your oral health.
- Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
- Improved Oral Health: Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, preserving your natural tooth structure.
- Convenience: Implants are permanently fixed in place, eliminating the need for adhesives or removing dentures for cleaning.
Why Replace Your Missing Teeth?
Replacing missing teeth is crucial for several reasons:
- Preventing Bone Loss: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone deteriorates due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants provide the necessary stimulation to maintain bone density.
- Restoring Function: Missing teeth can impact your ability to chew and speak properly. Dental implants restore these functions, improving your quality of life.
- Maintaining Alignment: Gaps from missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and potential bite issues. Implants keep your teeth in their proper positions.
- Enhancing Appearance: Missing teeth can affect the aesthetics of your smile and facial structure. Implants restore your smile and support facial contours, giving you a more youthful appearance.
What to Expect When Getting a Dental Implant
- Consultation: Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, to assess your oral health and determine whether you are suitable for implants.
- Treatment Planning: We will create a personalized treatment plan outlining the procedure steps, timeline, and any preparatory treatments needed, such as bone grafting.
- Implant Placement: The implant post is surgically inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation for your comfort. The site can heal for several months, and the bone integrates with the implant.
- Crown and Abutment Placement: The final crown and abutment is securely attached to the implant, completing the restoration and giving you a fully functional, natural-looking tooth.
Dentures Secured by Dental Implants
In addition to replacing individual missing teeth, we can also use dental implants to secure dentures. This option is ideal for patients who have lost multiple teeth or require a complete set of dentures. Dentures secured by dental implants offer several benefits over traditional removable dentures, including:
- Improved Stability: Dentures attached to implants are firmly anchored in place, preventing them from slipping or shifting while eating or talking.
- Comfort: Implant-supported dentures eliminate the discomfort and irritation caused by traditional dentures rubbing against the gums.
- Better Chewing Efficiency: With implant-supported dentures, you can enjoy a broader range of foods and chew them more efficiently, leading to improved digestion.
- Natural Appearance: Implants support the facial structure, preventing the sagging and sunken-in appearance often associated with traditional dentures.
How to Care for Your Implant
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your dental implant:
- Oral Hygiene: Regularly brush and floss your teeth to keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule routine check-ups and cleanings with your dentist to monitor the health of your implant and address any potential issues early.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid hard foods and objects that could damage the crown or put excessive pressure on the implant.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking and maintain a balanced diet to support overall oral health and the success of your implant.
Take the First Step Toward a New Smile with Cornerstone Family Dentistry
Choosing to replace your missing teeth with dental implants is a significant decision that can transform your life. At Cornerstone Family Dentistry, we support you through every step of the process with personalized care and expert treatment. Our team, including Dr. Mindy, Dr. Peterson, Dr. Jackie, and Dr. Monica, is committed to helping you achieve a beautiful, functional smile you can be proud of.
Dental Implants at Cornerstone Family Dentistry
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Contact Cornerstone Family Dentistry today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence with dental implants. Let us help you experience the life-changing benefits of a complete, healthy smile.
