Missing teeth are no laughing matter. And they don’t give us much to smile about, either. But it is important to know if you are missing teeth, or have no teeth, you are not alone. Tooth loss in adults is more common than many people realize. An estimated 2.2% of adults between 20 and 64 have no remaining teeth. Sure, that percentage might not seem that high. But when you compare that to the U.S. population of almost 336 million, that’s over 7 million people!

Thankfully, you don’t have to live with tooth loss. There are various tooth replacement options, including dentures, dental bridges, and best of all — dental implants. 

What are dental implants?

So, just what are dental implants? Some people call them fake teeth, but they are far more than that. Dental implants consist of three main components: the post, the abutment, and the crown. The titanium post is surgically implanted into your jawbone and serves as the root for your new tooth. 

Over time, this post integrates with your bone—a process called osseointegration—providing a stable foundation. The abutment is then attached to the post, acting as a connector between the implant and the crown. Finally, the dental crown, which resembles a natural tooth, is placed on top. The entire process typically takes five to eight months, depending on your jawbone and overall oral health.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have become known as the best solution for those needing restorative dentistry to replace missing teeth. The process does take a bit longer than dentures or a bridge, and the upfront investment is greater, but in the long run, your tooth implants will last longer and look, feel, and function most like your natural teeth.

So beyond that, just what are the benefits you can expect? Consider the following:

1. Long-lasting Solution for Missing Teeth

One of the main benefits of dental implants is their long lifespan. Unlike dentures and bridges, which may need replacement every few years, dental implants are designed to last for many years, often a lifetime, with proper care. 

This means fewer visits to the dentist and less worry about tooth replacements. Additionally, implants are made from strong materials like titanium and high-quality ceramic, ensuring they can withstand daily wear and tear. 

2. Natural Appearance

Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. The crowns are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth, creating a natural appearance. Unlike dentures, which can sometimes shift or look artificial, implants are securely anchored in your jaw, providing a consistent and natural look. 

This can uplift your confidence, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak without worrying about how your teeth look. With implants, you can enjoy the appearance of real teeth. And no one needs to know you have implants, unless you tell them, of course.

3. Better Bite and Function

We’ve alluded to it a couple of times—while dentures are a reasonable tooth replacement option, there are some drawbacks. They can slip and cause discomfort. And, there are many foods that you just can’t eat with dentures. However, dental implants work just like your real teeth. So, you can eat foods with minimal to no restrictions. This stability also helps maintain your jawbone structure, preventing bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth.

The Dental Implant Procedure

As we said, the process of getting dental implants takes about five to eight months. But this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a new smile for that long. Quite the contrary. Here is how the process typically works:

• Initial consultation: Meet with your dentist to discuss your needs and create a treatment plan
• Preparation: If needed, extraction of any damaged teeth and preparation of the jawbone
• Implant placement: Surgical placement of the titanium post into the jawbone
• Healing period: Allow the post to integrate with the jawbone (three to six months). During this period, temporary crowns will be placed. This means you can start enjoying a new smile.
• Abutment placement: Attach the abutment to the post
• Impression taking: Take impressions of your mouth to create custom crowns
• Crown placement: Attach the custom-made crown to the abutment
• Follow-up: Regular checkups to ensure the implant is functioning well

It’s as simple as that. At the end of the process, you’ll enjoy a new smile with new teeth that will last your lifetime. 

Dental Implants in Williamsville, New York

Are you tired of hiding your smile? Are you frustrated with your inability to eat the foods you used to enjoy? Do you find that even your closest friends can’t always understand what you are trying to say? If so, it’s time to consider dental implants. Dr. Kathleen Balthasar, DDS, and her team in Williamsville are ready to help you achieve a new smile. To get started, request an appointment for your initial dental implant consultation today.