If you have one or more missing teeth, you may be a candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are the most natural looking and permanent way to replace a missing tooth. With help from your Lehi, UT dentist at Gordon Family Dental, you can fill in your gaps and restore your confidence in your smile.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants replace a missing tooth’s root and the tooth itself. The procedure is completed during a two-phase process. First, the implant’s fixture, or the post which replaces the tooth’s root, is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Over time, the fixture integrates into the bone, creating a strong foundation for your new tooth. After the implant has had adequate time to bond with the bone, you will see your dentist for the final time. At this appointment, your dentist places an abutment connecting the fixture to your new dental crown, which replaces your tooth.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
#1 Permanent
Dental implants are designed to stay put for a lifetime. While dentures or dental bridges pose the threat of moving or falling out, dental implants are secured into the bone with no option to go anywhere.
#2 Non-removable
Other tooth replacement options require you to remove them to clean or brush. Dental implants fit, function and feel exactly like your natural teeth and never require you to remove them.
#3 Easy Maintenance
Since dental implants function just like natural teeth, they are able to be cleaned just like natural teeth. No special flossers or brushes are necessary. Simply clean them the same way you would clean your natural teeth, by brushing and flossing twice a day.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
When a tooth is missing, the bone below it is not stimulated. This causes the bone to atrophy, or degrade. Since the fixture, or post, of the implant must integrate into this bone, a good candidate should have minimal bone atrophy. Good general health is also necessary as the procedure requires the patient to go under general anesthesia.
If you are interested in dental implants in the Lehi, UT area, Dr. David Gordon, D.M.D. at Gordon Family Dental can help you begin your journey to a beautiful, gap-free smile. Please call (801) 766-6344 to speak with an associate about scheduling your appointment.