There are many ways to go about replacing missing teeth. However, you’ve probably already seen recommendations for dental implants. What makes them a cut above the rest? Dr. Paul C. Larsen discusses Bountiful, UT dental implants, and their many benefits.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are made up of three separate parts. First, a titanium post is the part that’s actually implanted into your jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment is attached to the post to connect it to the final restoration. The final restoration is commonly a dental crown. However, dental implants can also support a dental bridge or fixed denture as well.
Unmatched Stability
No other tooth-replacement option provides the stability that dental implants can. They’re the only option that replaces the tooth root as well as the crown of the tooth. The implant post fuses with the jawbone, giving the implant that stability. Fusing with the jawbone also helps to prompt jawbone growth regeneration, reversing the saggy face and other symptoms that come with jawbone deterioration from missing teeth.
Because of this stability, you get 100% of your bite function back. You don’t have to worry about changing your diet or the restoration slipping. With solutions like dentures, you have to find adhesives and things that work for you. None of these things are necessary with the stability of dental implants.
Natural Look and Feel
Since they replace the tooth root, dental implants feel the most natural in your mouth. It genuinely feels like you have a natural tooth. Particularly if you get a dental crown as the final restoration, it also looks natural. With the ability to color-match your smile and making sure it’s the size and shape to match the rest of your teeth, dental crowns fit seamlessly into your smile.
Less Maintenance
When you get dental implants, you can basically treat them like you would your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and make sure you’re visiting your dentist bi-annually for regular appointments. There are no special steps to cleaning or taking care of implants. Simply follow those steps, and they should be a reliable tooth replacement for years to come.
The Dental Implant Process
To start, we’ll have a consultation to make sure you’re a suitable candidate for implants. It does require a certain level of oral health and jawbone tissue. If you’re eligible, the surgical portion comes first. Titanium posts are implanted into the jawbone. These take about 3-6 months to heal to ensure they fuse with the jawbone properly.
When the healing is complete, pieces called abutments will be attached to the top of the post. These connect the posts to the final restoration. Typically, the final restoration will be a dental crown. However, for multiple missing teeth, dental implants can also support dental bridges and fixed dentures. We’ll help you find the right solution for your particular case.
Getting Dental Implants in Bountiful, Utah
Think dental implants are the right choice for your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.