Advances in modern dental technology have completely changed the way our St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist approaches certain aspects of dentistry. Techniques and materials not only open new areas of treatment in general and restorative dentistry, but greatly enhance your comfort and recovery time. Dental implants are one example of a relatively new treatment made possible because of these advancements in technology.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that acts as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Although they may seem like a recent innovation, dental implants have actually had FDA and ADA (American Dental Association) approval for over 25 years! The bio-compatible properties of titanium allow the implant to integrate naturally with bone and tissue in your jaw, creating a sound structure for the replacement tooth.
Why should I consider dental implants?
- During the 25 years that dentists in the U.S. have been using dental implants they have proven to be extremely reliable and durable.
- Implants are free-standing; they do not depend on neighboring natural teeth for support.
- Even though implant restorations look and act exactly like your natural teeth, they will not decay.
- Dental implant patients report that they are virtually pain-free after placement.
- Without the root structure of a natural tooth present, the jawbone can shrink. This shrinkage can cause your face to have a sunken appearance, making you look older than you are.
- Unlike a bridge or crown, there are no “loose” parts to worry about. Dental implants are stable and comfortable with no adjustment required after placement. Experience proves that dental implants normally last for decades, possibly a lifetime.
Who places the dental implants?
We are specialists in the placement of dental implants, with significantly more experience in implant placement than a general dentist. A dentist with limited experience in this area may choose to do only the restoration (crown) portion of the implant. The St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist has additional education and experience in this area, and can handle all steps of dental implant placement, from implantation to the finished restoration.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factor is the amount of bone available for placement of the implant.
Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to have dental implants placed.
If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of dental implants, please contact our dentist office to set up a convenient consultation to discuss your situation. At that time we can help you decide if dental implants are a viable solution for you.