Consider These Benefits of Dental Implants

Unfortunately, missing a tooth can be a common occurrence in life. Many of us lose at least one tooth before our senior years, while those who don’t practice good hygiene and health tips may lose many more. 

In the past, if you were missing one tooth, you received a dental bridge. If you were missing multiple teeth, you might get fitted for dentures. But today, there’s an alternative option that’s superior: dental implants. Here, at Sokoly Dental, led by Dr. Thomas D. Sokoly, we explain more about why dental implants are often the best option for you.

Why you may need a dental implant

You may need a dental implant for several reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Tooth decay
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Injury or trauma to your oral health

If your tooth loss is due to multiple factors, getting a dental implant may require additional steps before you’re ready for the procedure.

Prepping for a dental implant

Before your dental implant procedure, other dental issues may need to be addressed first to prepare your mouth. For example, if you don’t have enough bone density, you may need a bone grafting procedure to restore your jawbone so your dental implant can take hold when placed.

Your implant procedure begins with placing a small titanium screw into your jawbone. This serves as the implant or anchor, which takes several months to fuse with your jawbone.

At your next appointment, we place an abutment on top of your implant, which is a connecting piece that joins your restoration to your implant. We then place your customized crown on top of the abutment.

Advantages of dental implants

Dental implants have several advantages over their alternatives. Although dental implants aren’t usually covered by insurance, there are many good reasons why they’re worth the extra cost. These advantages include:

• Improved appearance
• No disruption to eating, chewing, or talking
• Improved speech
• Improved comfort 
• Facial structure stays intact

Because they’re designed to be a permanent solution, they should feel very comfortable in your mouth.

Your life with dental implants

The permanent crown that we place on top of your abutment matches your natural teeth in color and shape.

Most people say that the process of getting a dental implant is much less painful than something comparable such as a tooth extraction. You’re also given anesthesia to make the process more comfortable as well.

To find out if you might be a good candidate for dental implants, contact Dr. Thomas D. Sokoly at Sokoly Dental or make an appointment online.