Even one missing tooth can affect your everyday life as well as your self-confidence. Chewing becomes more difficult, speech may be impaired, and your risk for oral health problems and certain health conditions increases.
One of the best ways to alleviate the problems that come with missing teeth is with dental implants. Implants consist of an artificial tooth root placed directly into the jawbone, which supports an artificial tooth that sits on top of the gum line. Created to match a patient’s unique specifications, dental implants are made of high-quality materials that can last a lifetime.
For over 30 years, Dr. Dave Hippensteel has helped thousands of patients, young and old, enjoy healthy, fully functional smiles by restoring dental implants. Staying abreast of the latest technology in implant dentistry allows Dr. Dave to create replacement teeth that are both long-lasting and natural-looking. If you’re missing one or several teeth, let Dr. Dave’s Healthy Smiles help you restore both health and confidence with dental implants.
The Benefits Of Dental Implants
Replacing teeth with dental implants offers a number of benefits. First, closing gaps left by missing teeth reduces the risk of decay, gum disease and other dental problems. And because research shows oral health is closely linked to your overall health, replacing missing teeth can also help you avoid serious health conditions. Dental implants also makes speaking and chewing easier, the latter of which allows you to enjoy your favorite foods.
Dental implants help recreate the look of a complete and natural-looking smile. With dental implants, you no longer have to be embarrassed by gaps or spaces in your mouth when you laugh, speak or smile. In addition, dental implants keep the jawbone stimulated, preventing it from deteriorating. Healthy jawbone is essential for supporting the facial structures and maintaining a normal and youthful facial appearance.
Types Of Dental Implants
Dental implants are made of a biocompatible titanium post or screw surgically inserted into the jawbone, an artificial tooth, and an abutment that connects the two. Depending on your case, Dr. Dave may recommend one of the following:
A single-tooth implant, which consists of a titanium post that supports a dental crown.
An implant-supported bridge to replace several teeth. This device replaces all missing teeth and some of the missing tooth roots.
Implant-supported dentures to replace all teeth in the lower or upper arch. The denture is secured in place using several implant posts surgically placed in the jawbone.
Dental Implant Procedure Details
The dental implant placement process typically takes two dental appointments to complete. During your first appointment, Dr. Dave will examine your mouth, take X-rays and measurements to determine the number and location of implants needed. He will also make impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create your replacement teeth in the dental laboratory.
The implant post will be placed by a qualified oral surgeon. In order to ensure a stable foundation for the replacement teeth, the post must be given adequate time to fuse with the surrounding jawbone. This process, called osseointegration takes three to six months to complete. In the meantime, a temporary crown may be placed on top. Once the implant post has completely integrated with the jawbone, you will return to our office so Dr. Dave can place your replacement teeth. He will check your bite and may make some last-minute adjustments to ensure a proper fit and bite.
Caring For Your Dental Implants
With proper care and maintenance, your dental implants have the potential to last many years. Brush and floss your replacement teeth as normal, and visit Dr. Dave for routine dental checkups so he can monitor your oral health.
To learn more about dental implants or the other dental restorative options we offer for replacing missing teeth, please schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Dave’s Healthy Smiles. For all other adult patients, please contact our Dickson office.
