Missing teeth can significantly impact your confidence, oral health, and ability to enjoy daily activities like eating and speaking comfortably. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers a revolutionary solution: dental implants. At Webster Groves Dental, we specialize in providing high-quality dental implants to help you restore your smile and improve your quality of life.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of dental implants, the procedure, and what you can expect when choosing implants in Webster Groves.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible titanium or zirconia that are surgically placed into your jawbone. These implants serve as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or even full dentures. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants are permanent, offering unparalleled stability and functionality.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth due to their numerous benefits:
- Durability: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
- Natural Appearance: Implants mimic the look and feel of natural teeth.
- Improved Functionality: Eat, speak, and smile with confidence without worrying about slipping dentures.
- Preservation of Jawbone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
- Convenience: No need for adhesives or special maintenance—just brush and floss like normal.
The Dental Implant Process: Step-by-Step
At Webster Groves Dental, we ensure a seamless and comfortable dental implant experience. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Consultation
- Your journey begins with a thorough examination by Dr. Wenzel. During this visit, we will:
- Assess your oral health.
- Take digital x-rays and 3D images to evaluate your jawbone.
- Discuss your medical history to determine if you’re a candidate for implants.
2. Treatment Planning
If you’re a good candidate for dental implants, we’ll create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include additional procedures like bone grafting or tooth extractions if necessary.
3. Implant Placement
The next step is the surgical placement of the implant into your jawbone. This procedure is done under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort. The implant is placed into the jawbone, where it will fuse with the bone over the next few months—a process called osseointegration.
4. Healing Period
As the implant heals, it integrates with your jawbone to provide a solid foundation for the replacement tooth. During this time, you may wear a temporary restoration to maintain your smile.
5. Attachment of the Crown
Once the implant has fully fused with the bone, we’ll attach a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture to the implant. The restoration is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a flawless smile.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
While dental implants are an excellent option for most people, certain factors can affect your candidacy. Ideal candidates for implants should:
- Have healthy gums.
- Possess sufficient jawbone to support the implant.
- Be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene.
If you have conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease, additional treatments may be necessary before proceeding with implants.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
One of the greatest advantages of dental implants is their low-maintenance nature. To keep your implants in top condition, follow these tips:
- Brush and floss daily to maintain healthy gums.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can hinder healing.
With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime!
The Cost of Dental Implants in Webster Groves
While dental implants may have a higher initial cost compared to other tooth replacement options, their longevity and benefits make them a worthwhile investment. At Webster Groves Dental, we accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to make implants accessible to our patients.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Dental implants are more than just a tooth replacement solution—they’re a way to regain your confidence and improve your quality of life. If you’re considering dental implants in Webster Groves, Dr. Wenzel and the team at Webster Groves Dental are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile.