Ankeny, IA dentist offers implants for missing teeth

Should You Get Dental Implants?

In our last blog, we talked about how dental bridges can fill the gaps in your smile. When you have missing teeth, there are concerns regarding the appearance of your grin, the stability of your other pearly whites, and bone loss. While bridges are a great option, they do not replace the root of the tooth, which is important to the overall structure of your smile. Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, offers implants, which replace this essential part and have a natural-looking appearance.

Read more: Should You Get Dental Implants?

Who Qualifies For Implants

To be a good candidate for this restoration, you must have a healthy jawbone and gum tissues, as well as be in good health. The process of receiving an implant will take several appointments over the span of a few months. First, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your smile to check your health and your missing teeth. If necessary, the damaged teeth in need of replacement will be removed. Then, an impression will be taken of your oral cavity to create your implants.

At a separate appointment, the post will be inserted into the jawbone. After this, you will need time to heal and for the bone and post to fuse. This is a naturally occurring process known as osseointegration. Once this happens, the abutment piece can be added. Finally, the crown will be added. This is the piece that will blend into your natural smile and assist you with chewing and speech.

What Are The Benefits Of Implants

As mentioned previously, this restoration replaces the entire structure of a missing tooth. This includes the root and crown. One benefit of this is that it will be secured permanently. Although a bridge does not have to be removed to clean or use, it is held in place by adjacent teeth, which can be unreliable at times. The implant is inserted into your jaw, below the gum line, and will stay in place permanently. This can also aid in keeping strong bones and will decrease the chances of bone loss. When you have a prosthetic such as a bridge or an implant, your gums may begin to recede, and you may lose more teeth.

Lastly, of course, this restoration will improve your ability to chew, and speak, and allow you to have a full smile again. You will be able to continue eating your favorite foods without worry. Your oral care can remain the same.  Having a complete grin will boost your confidence as well.

Talk To Your Dentist Today

If you have missing teeth, an implant may be able to replace them and protect your smile from bone loss. To schedule a consultation, call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, at (515) 965-0230.