What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants in LaFollette are advanced, long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants provide a nearly identical feel and function to your natural teeth.
An implant consists of three parts:
- The Post: A small titanium screw secured into your jawbone, acting as a sturdy foundation.
- The Abutment: A connector that holds the post and crown securely in place.
- The Crown: The custom-designed tooth replacement that seamlessly blends with your natural teeth.
Dental implants not only restore your smile’s aesthetics, but they also support your overall oral health and ensure durability that can last for decades.
Are Dental Implants in LaFollette Right for You?
Are dental implants the solution you’ve been searching for? Here are signs and situations in which dental implants might be an excellent fit for you:
- Missing Tooth/Teeth: Whether it’s one tooth or multiple, implants provide a durable and natural-looking replacement.
- Loose Dentures: If your dentures cause you discomfort or don’t feel secure, dental implants can offer stability.
- Difficulty Eating or Speaking: Missing teeth can make chewing and pronunciation hard. Implants restore full functionality to your mouth.
- Healthy Gums and Sufficient Jawbone: These are essential for the success of an implant, although bone grafting procedures can often address jawbone deterioration.
During a consultation at ACES Dental, Dr. Lopez will evaluate your oral health and discuss your options to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.
What to Expect During the Dental Implant Procedure
At ACES Dental in LaFollette, your comfort and care are our priorities. Here’s an overview of what the dental implant process typically involves:
Initial Consultation
Dr. Lopez will begin with an in-depth evaluation, which includes X-rays and an examination of your oral health, and he will create a plan just for you.
Placement of the Implant
The titanium post (implant) is carefully placed into your jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation for added comfort. Over the next few months, the bone naturally integrates with the implant—a process called osseointegration.
Abutment Placement
Once the healing is complete, a small connector, called the abutment, is attached to the implant, preparing for the final crown.
Placement of the Crown
Finally, we will secure the custom-made crown to the abutment. This crown will look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.
From start to finish, the process is precise, comfortable, and tailored to meet your unique needs.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the longevity of your dental implants. Here are simple guidelines to follow after your procedure:
- Practice Regular Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss carefully around the implant area.
- Avoid Hard Foods Initially: Stick to soft foods while your implant is healing.
- Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Routine visits to ACES Dental allow Dr. Lopez to monitor your implants and oral health.
- Protect Against Damaging Habits: Avoid smoking or grinding your teeth, as these can compromise the integrity of the implant.
With proper care and attention, your dental implants can remain healthy and functional for years to come.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants do more than fill the gap in your smile—they offer numerous advantages, including:
- Restored Functionality: Dental implants allow you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence. You’ll no longer have to avoid certain foods or worry about discomfort while speaking.
- Long-lasting Durability: Unlike other tooth-replacement methods, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
- Improved Oral Health: Implants maintain the health of your jawbone by preventing bone loss. They also do not rely on neighboring teeth for support, helping to preserve your natural teeth.
Dental Implants in LaFollette
Regain your confidence and enjoy a healthy, functional smile with dental implants at ACES Dental in LaFollette. Dr. Michael Lopez and our compassionate team are ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your experience is as stress-free as possible.
Schedule your consultation today to find out how dental implants can change your life.
Your perfect smile is just a step away!
