If you have lost a tooth, dental implants are an ideal way for replacing it. This is a permanent solution that can make it easy to enjoy your favorite foods, speak clearly, and behave like you have a full set of natural teeth. Unlike temporary solutions like dentures, once the implant is installed there are no additional maintenance requirements so you can enjoy an active lifestyle free from worrying about your teeth.
This is a relatively new procedure in dentistry and has only been widely performed for the past couple decades. Previously, if someone lost a tooth the standard solution was to provide them with a partial set of dentures or to use a dental bridge to replace it. Both of these solutions are effective but come with their own set of challenges. For example, dentures do not feel like natural teeth and have to be taken out at night to clean and soak. They can also become loose when speaking or eating. A dental bridge will feel like a natural tooth but in order to have it installed the teeth surrounding your missing tooth need to be strong enough to support the procedure.
Dr. Steele provides dental implants to patients who want to have a permanent and carefree solution for their missing tooth or teeth. Implants can also be used to replace crooked teeth and to give someone a smile makeover. They are incredibly durable and should last a lifetime. Here is how the process works:
Step One: Dr. Steele will conduct an examination to determine if your gums and jawbone are healthy and strong enough to support a dental implant. If not, there are additional procedures that can be done to get them in better shape.
Step Two: A mold will be taken of your mouth and existing teeth so that the dental lab can create a new synthetic tooth. The tooth will be made to match your existing teeth in size, shape, and color. They will look completely natural once finished. Since they are made of ceramic, it is stain resistant but also resistant to bleaching. If you want to whiten your teeth you should do so before having the implant created.
Step Three: Dr. Steele will implant a metal rod underneath the gums and secure it to the jawbone. This serves as a synthetic root system that is as durable as a natural one. The metal rod will eventually fuse with the jawbone and allow the tooth to stand on its own without depending on the surrounding teeth for strength. This process can take several months but is the key to the long-term durability of the tooth.
Step Four: The new tooth (or teeth) will be attached to a second metal piece that fits between the metal rod and the tooth to secure it in place. Dr. Steele will position the tooth perfectly so that it is straight, beautiful, and natural looking. The result is a stunning smile.
Dental implants are an ideal way to restore both the appearance and functionality of your smile. To learn more, schedule an appointment with Steele Dentistry of Stapleton today.
