Dental implants are one of the most popular treatments for tooth loss. At Paradigm Dental, the implant is surgically placed within the jawbone where the tooth root used to be, and an artificial crown is attached to the abutment. This prosthetic looks and feels like natural teeth and can be cleaned and cared for just as your natural teeth. When properly taken care of, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Patients love dental implants because they offer a natural look that blends in with the rest of their smiles. Additionally, there is no need to worry about dentures slipping or falling out while eating or talking. As long as you continue to care for your implants with regular checkups and cleanings, they should continue looking and functioning great for years to come.
The Procedure for Dental Implant
The implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone and acts as an artificial root. It will eventually be hidden beneath the gum line, creating a solid foundation for the replacement tooth to be attached to. Next, an abutment is screwed onto the top of the implant. This small connector piece secures the dental crown to the implant and holds it in place. After the implant has healed and the jaw has fused with the implant, we’ll place a beautiful custom crown over the abutment to complete your smile makeover. We craft all our restorations in our lab to ensure the best possible result that will blend seamlessly with your smile. Dental implants provide comfort and security for your bite and the appearance of a natural-looking smile that can last a lifetime.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
- Unlike dentures or bridges, implants cannot be removed at will. Instead, they are permanently affixed to the jawbone and are cared for like natural teeth. The implant has a natural look and feel, which won’t make you self-conscious about smiling in public.
- Having an implant placed is the first step toward actually being able to eat whatever you want again. Traditional bridges and dentures often need to be put in the right place when people talk or chew. With dental implants, you never have to worry about this and can return to enjoying your favorite foods without worrying about slipping your teeth. And when properly cared for, your dental implant can last for the rest of your life.
- When missing a tooth, bone loss can be a significant concern. The jawbone begins to recede when the tooth can no longer stimulate it. This can lead to substantial problems, including further tooth loss and changes to the shape of the face. However, dental implants can stop bone loss in the jaw because they are implanted directly into the bone, mimicking the function of the lost tooth root.
If you want dental implants, contact Paradigm Dental at 3970 SW Mercantile Dr. Lake Oswego, Oregon 97035, or call (503) 626-7323 to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. We can provide the dental care you need to restore your smile.