Living with missing or damaged teeth can significantly impact your quality of life. Simple activities like eating, speaking, and smiling can become challenging. Dental implants offer a remarkable solution to restore your teeth and regain optimal oral functionality. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are designed to mimic the structure and function of natural teeth.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gums. This titanium post acts as an artificial tooth root, providing a stable anchor for the replacement tooth or dental restoration. The implant is typically topped with a custom-made dental crown, resembling a natural tooth in shape, color, and function.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Improved Appearance and Confidence
One of the significant benefits of dental implants is their ability to improve your appearance and boost your confidence. The custom-made dental crowns or restorations attached to the implants are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking smile.
Restored Ability to Chew and Speak Properly
Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can make chewing and speaking challenging. Dental implants function like natural teeth, providing a stable foundation for biting and chewing. By replacing missing teeth with implants, you can enjoy the ability to eat a wide range of foods comfortably. Additionally, dental implants improve speech clarity, eliminating any slurring or difficulty in pronouncing certain words.
Preservation of Jawbone Structure and Facial Contours
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone may deteriorate over time. Dental implants help prevent this bone loss by stimulating the jawbone like natural tooth roots. This stimulation promotes healthy bone growth and preserves the integrity of the jawbone structure and facial contours.
Long-Term Durability and Functionality
Dental implants are known for their exceptional durability and long-term functionality. Made from biocompatible materials like titanium, the implants integrate with the jawbone and become a permanent part of your oral structure. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last for many years, providing a reliable and stable solution for tooth replacement.
Dental Problems Treated with Implants
Dental implants are a highly effective solution for various dental problems, offering a durable and natural-looking replacement for missing or severely damaged teeth. Common dental problems that can be addressed by dental implants include:
- Missing Teeth
- Severely Damaged or Decayed Teeth
- Denture Instability or Discomfort
- Jawbone Deterioration
Types of Dental Implants
When considering dental implants, it is important to understand that different types of implants are available to address specific needs and circumstances.
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Typically made of titanium, these implants provide a strong foundation for dental restorations. Endosteal implants can support individual crowns, dental bridges, or even full arches of teeth.
Implant-supported dentures are an excellent option for patients who require full arch tooth replacement. This type of dental implant involves strategically placing multiple implants to support a full set of dentures. The number of implants required depends on the individual case and the stability needed. Implant-supported dentures provide enhanced stability, improved chewing function, and increased comfort compared to traditional removable dentures.
Cost of Dental Implants
If you are considering dental implants, it’s important to understand the cost can vary depending on factors such as the number of implants needed, additional procedures required, and insurance coverage. For precise information about the cost of dental implants and insurance coverage, we recommend contacting your dental provider.
Dental Implants in Salem, NH
Considering the cost of dental implants is an important factor in making an informed decision. If you are curious if dental implants are suitable for you or to get a precise cost estimate, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Honest Dental Care in Salem, NH. During the consultation, Dr. McMillan will conduct a thorough assessment of your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and provide personalized recommendations. We will also help you explore financing options to make dental implants more affordable and manageable.