Dental Implants at True Dental: Your Path to a Confident Smile
At True Dental, we offer a state-of-the-art solution for replacing missing teeth: dental implants. As a premier option for tooth replacement, implants provide a durable, natural-looking alternative that can greatly enhance your quality of life and boost your self-confidence.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
While nothing can quite reach the level of a natural tooth (which is why root canal therapy and other measures to save the tooth are often recommended before extraction), dental implants are modern dentistry's gold standard in tooth replacement for several reasons. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants provide a permanent solution that, with the proper care, can last a lifetime. Here are some of the most important benefits of choosing implants:
Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are designed to feel, look, and function just like natural teeth. This allows you to eat, speak, and smile like you did before losing your tooth.
Prevent Bone Loss: Over time, when a tooth is missing, the jawbone in the empty space can deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Implants are the only tooth replacement option that also replaces the tooth root, stimulating and preserving natural bone growth.
Improved Oral Health: Dental implants do not require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. This means that more of your own teeth are left intact, which is better for your long-term oral health. While implant-supported dentures and bridges can be a more affordable option, individual implants allow easier access between teeth, enhancing oral hygiene.
Durability: Implants are very durable. The titanium posts and porcelain crowns are capable of lasting many years. With good care, they can even last a lifetime.
Convenience: Unlike removable dentures, which can be cumbersome and embarrassing due to slipping, dental implants are permanent and do not need to be removed for cleaning or sleeping. You can enjoy all the foods you love and clean your implants just like normal teeth.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
A good candidate for dental implants typically has healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the implant, as these factors are crucial for the success and stability of the implant. Additionally, candidates should commit to maintaining good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits to ensure the longevity of their implants.
It's important to note that if any orthodontic treatments are needed, they should ideally be completed before the implant process. This ensures that the teeth are in the correct position, providing a stable environment that facilitates the integration of the implant with the surrounding bone.
The Dental Implant Placement Process
The journey to restoring your smile with dental implants will take place over several key steps, expertly handled by your trusted dentist in Murray Hill, Dr. Stacy Spizuoco:
Consultation and Planning: During your initial visit at True Dental, Dr. Spizuoco will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, including X-rays and possibly 3D images, to determine if dental implants are the best option for you. This step also involves planning the placement of the implants to ensure optimal results.
Implant Placement: The dental implant, a small titanium post, is placed into the socket of the missing tooth. As the jawbone heals around it, it grows tighter against the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw. This healing process can take from 6 to 12 weeks.
Abutment and Crown Placement: Once the implant has bonded to the jawbone, a small connector post — called an abutment — is attached to the post to securely hold the new tooth. After that, Dr. Spizuoco will make impressions of your teeth to create the crown, which is the replacement tooth. The crown is then attached to the abutment.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Caring for implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Here are some tips to ensure the longevity of your implants:
Brush and Floss Regularly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean around implants, crowns, and natural teeth twice a day. Floss daily using unwaxed tape or implant-specific floss to remove plaque.
Regular Dental Visits: Visit True Dental regularly for cleanings and exams to ensure the health of your implant and the rest of your teeth and gums.
Avoid Hard Foods: While dental implants are incredibly durable, avoiding hard and sticky foods can prevent damage to the ceramic crowns.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can slow the healing process and negatively affect the long-term success of your dental implants. It is also a serious risk factor for a host of other dental problems and overall health problems.
Restore Your Complete Smile
Choosing to replace a missing tooth or teeth with dental implants can dramatically improve your life, from enhancing your facial aesthetics to restoring your mouth’s functionality. At True Dental, your trusted dentist in Murray Hill, Dr. Stacy Spizuoco is committed to providing expert care and guidance throughout your implant journey. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a confident, lasting smile.
