Dental Implants
Missing teeth can make everyday activities like eating and speaking feel challenging, but dental implants offer a reliable, long-term solution. With a success rate of over 90%, they can restore your smile while preventing bone loss and supporting the structure of your jaw.
At Champagne Dental Care, we specialize in providing dental implants in Clearwater, FL. We combine advanced techniques with a patient-centered approach to deliver natural-looking and durable results.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that serve as artificial tooth roots. They’re surgically placed into your jawbone and provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or even full-arch dentures. Titanium is used because it’s biocompatible, meaning it integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration.
Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, making them a healthier and more stable option.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth.
- Have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.
- Are in good overall health, with no conditions that hinder healing.
- Are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene.
If your jawbone has experienced shrinkage due to tooth loss, bone grafting may be recommended to create a strong foundation for the implants. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to the jaw to restore lost bone volume and improve implant success.
What Is the Process of Getting Dental Implants?
- Initial Consultation
During your first visit, we’ll evaluate your oral health, review your medical history, and take X-rays to assess the condition of your jawbone.
- Implant Placement
The implant placement procedure is performed under local anesthesia for your comfort. A small incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone, and the titanium implant is carefully inserted. The area is then stitched closed, and the healing process begins.
- Healing Period
Healing, or osseointegration, typically takes 3-6 months. During this time, the implant fuses with the bone, creating a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
- Abutment and Temporary Crown
After healing, a second minor procedure is performed to attach an abutment—a small connector piece that holds the final crown in place. In some cases, we add a temporary crown to maintain the appearance of your smile while the gum tissue heals.
- Final Restoration
Once your gums have healed, impressions are taken to create your custom crown, bridge, or denture. Depending on your needs, the prosthetic tooth can be attached to a small gold cylinder, which is screwed into the abutment, or it can be directly cemented onto the abutment itself.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous advantages, such as:
- Natural Appearance: Implants look and feel like real teeth.
- Durability: With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
- Improved Comfort: They eliminate the discomfort associated with removable dentures.
- Bone Preservation: Implants prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.
- No Impact on Neighboring Teeth: They don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support.
- Enhanced Confidence: Eat, speak, and smile without worry.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are incredibly durable and, with proper care, can last a lifetime. By brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist regularly, you’ll help ensure your implants remain in top shape.
However, the crowns or prosthetics attached to the implants may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear.
Are You Interested in Dental Implants in Clearwater, FL?
Ready to restore your smile with dental implants? Contact Champagne Dental Care today to schedule your consultation and explore how we can help you achieve a natural, lasting solution for missing teeth.