What Makes Dental Implants Different?
Think of a dental implant as an artificial tooth root. Dr. Roberto places a small titanium post into your jawbone, and over time, your bone actually fuses with the implant. This process, known as osseointegration, creates an incredibly strong foundation for your replacement tooth.
Once the implant heals, we attach a custom crown that matches your natural teeth. The result? A tooth that looks real, feels real, and works just like the tooth you lost.
Other tooth replacement options don’t offer this same level of stability. Dentures can slip around, and bridges require altering healthy teeth next to the gap. Implant dentistry preserves your existing teeth while giving you a solution that can last many years with proper care.
Benefits That Go Beyond Your Smile
Dental implants do more than fill the space where a tooth used to be. They protect your overall oral health in ways that might surprise you.
Here’s what implants can do for you:
- Prevent bone loss – Your jawbone needs stimulation from tooth roots to stay healthy. Implants provide the stimulation that stops the bone deterioration that occurs after tooth loss.
- Maintain your face shape – When you lose bone in your jaw, your face can appear sunken or aged. Implants help preserve your natural facial structure.
- Protect neighboring teeth – Unlike bridges, implants don’t require grinding down healthy teeth. Each implant stands on its own.
- Improve eating and speaking – With implants, you can bite into an apple or speak clearly without worrying about your teeth shifting.
The team at Gentle Family Dentists takes time to explain how these benefits apply to your specific situation. Every patient has unique needs, and we create treatment plans tailored to your individual life.
The Implant Process: What to Expect
Getting dental implants takes several months, but the process is straightforward. We break it down into manageable steps so you always know what comes next.
First, we examine your mouth and take detailed images of your jaw. This helps us determine if you have enough bone to support an implant. If you need a bone graft first, we’ll discuss that option with you.
During the implant placement appointment, Dr. Roberto surgically positions the titanium post into your jawbone. Most patients find this procedure less uncomfortable than they expected. We use local anesthesia, and many people return to work the next day.
The healing phase typically lasts between three to six months. During this time, your bone grows around the implant to create a solid anchor. You may wear a temporary tooth to conceal a visible gap while you heal.
Once everything has fused, we attach an abutment (a connector piece) and then place your custom crown. The crown is designed to match your other teeth in color, shape, and size. Nobody will be able to tell which tooth the implant is in.
Caring for Your Implant Dentistry Investment
Dental implants don’t get cavities, but they still need regular care. You’ll brush and floss your implants just as you would your natural teeth. The gum tissue around the implant stays healthy when you maintain good oral hygiene habits.
Regular checkups help us monitor your implants and catch any issues early. Restorative dentistry includes ongoing maintenance for all your dental work, and implants are no exception. We want your investment to last as long as possible.
Most implants remain functional for decades when patients take proper care of them. Some studies show success rates above 95% after ten years. That’s an incredible track record for a dental restoration.
Making Implant Dentistry Affordable
The cost of implant dentistry is a concern for many patients, and we understand that. Dental implants require an upfront investment, but they often save money over time because they don’t need replacements that other options do.
We offer several ways to make treatment more accessible. Our specials and promotions change throughout the year, so it’s worth asking what’s currently available. We also have an in-house membership club that helps patients without insurance access the care they need.
Many dental insurance plans cover at least part of implant treatment. We’ll work with your insurance company to maximize your benefits. Our team handles the paperwork, so you can focus on your treatment instead of dealing with administrative headaches.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Missing teeth don’t have to be permanent. Implant dentistry restores the function and confidence you deserve. Dr. Roberto has helped countless North Liberty, West Liberty, and Muscatine. patients transform their smiles with dental implants that look and feel completely natural.
The first step is simple: schedule a consultation. We’ll examine your mouth, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan. You’ll leave our office with a clear understanding of what to expect and how we can help you smile again.
Contact us today to learn more about dental implants at Gentle Family Dentists. Your new smile is waiting—let’s make it happen together.