A Long-Lasting Solution for Missing Teeth
If you’re missing a tooth (or several), dental implants are one of the most natural-looking and long-lasting ways to restore your smile. They’re designed to feel and function just like your real teeth and best of all, they don’t affect the healthy teeth around them like other options, such as bridges or a clasp from a denture.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small, strong post, usually made of titanium, that is placed in your jawbone to act as a replacement for the root of your missing tooth. Once it heals, a custom-made crown is attached on top, giving you a tooth that looks and feels just like the real thing.
What to Expect from the Implant Process
Getting a dental implant takes place over a few months, but the results are well worth it. Here’s how it works:
Placing the Implant:
First, we gently make a small opening in the gum and place the implant post into the jawbone. If more than one implant is needed, they can often be placed during the same visit. The area is then closed with a few small stitches.
Healing & Integration (3–6 months):
After placement, your implant needs time to heal. During this phase, your jawbone naturally grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong, stable foundation.
While you heal, we offer temporary solutions to fill the gap such as: a temporary crown, partial denture, or other cosmetic options so you can speak, smile, and eat comfortably without feeling self-conscious.
Attaching the Abutment & Crown:
Once the implant has fully bonded with your bone, we’ll place a small connector piece called an abutment. This will hold your new tooth in place.
We’ll then take impressions and create a custom crown that matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. Some offices make the crown in-house, while others send it to a trusted dental lab.
Your Final Visit – A New Tooth That Feels Like Your Own:
When your crown is ready, we’ll attach it securely to your implant. After a short adjustment period, it will look, feel, and function just like one of your natural teeth.
Dental implants are a long-term investment in your health, comfort, and confidence. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we’ll guide you through every step of the process with care and clarity.
Have questions or want to know if implants are right for you? We’d be happy to talk with you and help you explore your options. Your new smile could be just around the corner!