Dental Implants
Fully Functioning, Beautiful Tooth Restoration
Dental implants are a long-term solution for one or more missing teeth. They replicate a natural tooth’s appearance and function and are the only tooth replacement option that prevents bone loss. Implant dentistry has helped thousands of patients achieve complete and healthier smiles.
A dental implant post is embedded into the jaw bone. This acts just like a natural tooth root, providing stability during chewing. There are no moving parts or removable pieces, and your implant will feel just like a healthy, natural tooth. The implant crown is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your other teeth. Many people will not be able to tell which tooth is the implant because of how natural it will look.
If you have missing, damaged, or failing teeth, contact Vero Dental in Lehi, UT, today for an appointment. We will walk you through your options for restoring your teeth so that you can feel proud about your smile.
What Are My Options for Replacement Teeth?
Many adults will need to replace at least one missing or failing tooth at some point in their life. There are many options to consider, depending on the number of teeth you would like replaced, their location, your oral health, and your budget. Alex Harris, DDS will walk you through your tooth restoration options, and together you will select the type of treatment you would like. These options include:
- Dental Implants. The implant post fuses to the jaw bone, providing the same stimulation as a natural tooth’s root. Your implant is secure and will not be removed during meals or cleaning. You can receive one or several implants.
- Full-Arch Restoration. Sometimes known as All-on-4, full-arch restoration uses multiple dental implant posts to secure a fixed prosthesis. Alex Harris, DDS designs the fixed denture to look and feel natural, and will secure it to the implant posts once they have fused to the jaw bone. This option also prevents jaw bone atrophy associated with tooth loss.
- Dentures. Removable dentures restore your smile’s appearance but must be taken out during eating and brushing. You must receive new dentures every few years due to wear and tear, and there is no stimulation below the gums to preserve the jaw bone.
- Traditional Bridge/Partial. These options cosmetically restore multiple missing teeth by relying on your existing teeth for support. They prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of place, but are not as sturdy as implants, so you should exercise care when chewing with them.
- Implant-Supported Bridge. Instead of depending on your existing teeth, a dental implant can support a bridge. This stimulates the jaw bone, prevents dental shifting, and restores full function to your smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- They are long-lasting.
- Tooth loss can cause the jaw bone to deteriorate, but dental implants keep the jaw strong and healthy.
- Implants require a sturdy foundation. If you’ve experienced jaw bone atrophy, you can receive a bone graft to create adequate support for the implant.
- Dental implants promote good oral health, helping to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- If you would like a tooth extracted, you may be able to receive the implant post the same day, reducing the number of surgical procedures necessary.
- You can enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about discomfort. Your implant is strong, and you can use it just like you would a natural tooth.
- No special care is required. Simply practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your implant twice daily along with your other teeth.
- Dental implants have high success rates.
- The final crown is custom made by Alex Harris, DDS to blend in with your other teeth for beautiful, natural-looking results.
- Patients who have suffered from periodontal disease can still qualify for implant-based restoration through bone grafting and other bone regenerative methods.
Dental Implant Surgery
The surgery to place a dental implant takes typically one hour per implant. Your doctor will make a small incision in the gum tissue and insert the titanium implant post. If you are having a tooth extracted and have enough adequate jaw bone, you may be able to receive a dental implant at the same visit.
As a restorative dentist, Alex Harris, DDS helps plan where the implant will be placed to obtain the most ideal functional and aesthetic results. This includes single implants, multiple implants, or full-arch restoration. He is responsible for designing and placing the final prosthesis.
Once the implant post has fully healed and fused to the jaw bone, Alex Harris, DDS will place your final crown, bridge, or denture. These restorations are custom-made to blend in with your other teeth and provide the same look, feel, and function as natural teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Implant Dentistry
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
A good candidate for dental implants will have the following qualities:
- No infections or other dental problems that could interfere with the surgery and recovery.
- Adequate bone density. Implants are surgically placed into the jaw bone, so it needs to be healthy and strong to provide a solid anchor.
- Great oral health and hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing are just as important for maintaining an implant as your natural teeth and gums.
- No tobacco use. Tobacco prevents healing in the mouth and increases the risk of implant failure.
Minimal bruxism. A teeth-grinding or clenching habit can put too much strain on an implant, leading to implant failure.
How Much Does a Tooth Implant Cost?
Your Destination for a Beautiful Smile
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FREE Dental Implant Consultation ($225 Value)
Call 801-901-8851 today to schedule.