St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist Explains Dental Implants and their Uses

Written by Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud on May 15, 2012

What is a Dental Implant?
To many people, dental implants may seem like a new option for replacing missing teeth. But in reality, they have actually had FDA and ADA (American Dental Association) approval for over 25 years! A dental implant is a small titanium screw that acts as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. This titanium implant is bio-compatible, which simply means that once it is placed by your Highland Park St. Paul Dental Implants Dentist, it will integrate with the bone and create a sound structure for the replacement tooth.

Why 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?
At St. Paul Dental Implants Office, we are specialists in the placement of dental implants, with significantly more experience in implant placement than a general dentist. Your satisfaction and the strength and durability of the implant are extremely important, and you need to feel confident that you’re being cared for by a dental professional who can deliver on all counts.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
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.

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. Contact our office at (651) 925-2644 to set up a free consultation to discuss your situation, and we can evaluate if dental implants are a viable solution for you.