Missing teeth? We can help! Ask Dr. Safina LeClair how implant dentistry can replace your missing teeth and fully restore your smile and oral health.
What Is Implant Dentistry?
Implant dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that involves the placement of dental implants to replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, usually titanium, that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. They serve as a foundation for attaching prosthetic teeth, such as crowns, bridges or dentures. Implant dentistry aims to provide patients with a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth, improving their oral health, appearance and quality of life.
The Implant Treatment Process
There are several steps when it comes to receiving implants:
- Getting Started: The first step involves a consultation with our dentist, including a thorough examination of your oral health. X-rays and evaluations help our dentist plan the best treatment for you.
- Surgical Placement: During this surgical procedure, the dental implant post is carefully placed into the jawbone. It replaces your tooth root and will integrate with your jawbone to provide a stable foundation for your smile.
- Healing Time: A healing period of a few months is typically required for osseointegration to occur. During this time, the patient may wear a temporary restoration.
- Abutment Attachment: Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment — a connector piece — is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as the connection between the implant and the prosthetic tooth.
- Creating Impressions: Our dentist and team will take precise impressions of your abutment and nearby teeth. These impressions help create a custom-made replacement tooth that fits perfectly. This implant restoration may be a crown, bridge or a complete or partial denture.
- Adding the Replacement Tooth: Once your implant restoration is ready, it is securely attached to the abutment. It will fit, function and feel just like a natural tooth.
Our Implant Services
Our dental implant services include:
- Abutment & Placement
- BioHorizons®
- Implant-Supported Bridges
- Implant-Supported Crowns
- Implant-Supported Dentures
- Implants vs. Bridges
- Individual Dental Implants
- Straumann® Dental Implants
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits for your smile and oral health, including:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, making your smile look and feel natural.
- Strong Bite: Implants provide a solid foundation for chewing and biting, so you can enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
- Preserving Jawbone: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone can shrink over time. Implants stimulate the bone just like your natural teeth, helping to prevent this deterioration.
- Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, saving you from frequent replacements.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: Unlike removable dentures, implants stay securely in place, so you won’t have to deal with slipping or discomfort.
- Improved Confidence: Dental implants restore your smile, boosting your self-esteem and confidence in social situations.
- Clear Speech: Missing teeth can affect speech clarity. Implants help you speak naturally without worrying about pronunciation.
- Easy Maintenance: Implants can be cared for just like your natural teeth, without the need for special cleaning techniques.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your oral health and function, appearance and quality of life. Here at Audubon Dental, we recommend that you replace your missing teeth as soon as possible. Replacing missing teeth is important for a number of reasons, such as:
- Oral Health: Gaps in your smile can lead to oral health issues, like shifting teeth and gum problems. Dental implants help maintain a healthy mouth.
- Chewing Efficiency: Missing teeth can make it challenging to eat certain foods. Dental implants restore your ability to chew effectively.
- Confidence: Having a complete smile boosts your self-confidence and makes you feel more comfortable in social situations.
- Speech: Missing teeth can affect speech clarity. Replacing them with implants can improve your speech and communication.
- Bone Health: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing.
- Overall Wellbeing: A healthy and functional smile contributes to your overall wellbeing, both physically and emotionally.
Schedule Your Consultation
We welcome you to contact Audubon Dental at 509-325-4227 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. LeClair and learn more about implant dentistry in Spokane, Washington.