Going through tooth loss as an adult can be traumatic. In addition to impacting your appearance, tooth loss also affects your ability to chew your food and speak clearly. At Titus Dentistry in Middletown, IN, we can help you get back your smile with the help of dental implants. This versatile tooth replacement option is the gold standard for missing teeth and offers patients many benefits. Below, we will take a closer look at the dental implants procedure and how it works to replace missing teeth.

How dental implants replace missing teeth

One of the best ways to understand how dental implants work is to first understand the parts of your natural tooth. Each tooth is made up of the root, which resides below the gumline to anchor the tooth in the jaw, and the crown, which is the part you see above the gumline. Many common tooth replacement options such as dentures and bridges sit on top of the gums, replacing only the crown of the tooth. Dental implants, however, are small, screw-like apparatuses that are surgically placed into the bone to replace the missing tooth root. The result is a fully functional restoration that is as close to your natural teeth as possible.

The dental implants procedure

While there are several different types of dental implants, the traditional method of placing implants typically involves multiple visits to the dental office over several months.

During the first visit, the implant is placed into the jawbone during a simple, outpatient surgical procedure. Dental implants are made of strong, high-quality materials to ensure their longevity. The implant is then covered up and left alone to heal. During this healing period which can last several months, the implant and the bone fuse together to form the stable foundation for your replacement tooth.

Once the implant area has healed, you will return to the office for the second step. The dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the implant and place a small connector called an abutment. This abutment is used to hold the replacement tooth in place. The final step is to attach your custom fabricated replacement tooth on top of the implant.

For individuals replacing an entire arch of teeth with dentures, we place several implants strategically in the mouth to support the full set of teeth.

Benefits of dental implants

Having dental implants placed involves a commitment of time and money, but in the end, there are numerous benefits to choosing this type of tooth replacement.

• Versatility – Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or support an entire arch of dentures.
• Stability and Functionality – Dental implants offer patients the most long-term, stable option for tooth replacement. No more worrying about dentures losing suction and slipping out of place. Dental implants will remain firmly in place as you bite, chew, speak, and smile.
• Improved oral health – Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing resorption, and tissue loss.
• Takes years off your appearance – Over time, missing teeth can cause your cheeks to look sunken, aging your appearance. Dental implants restore the appearance of your smile to make you look younger.

Schedule your consultation at Titus Dentistry today

Would you like to find out if you are a candidate for the dental implant procedure? If you live in the Middletown, IN area, call Titus Dentistry at (765) 358-5868 to book an appointment.

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