People with missing teeth have difficulty doing certain things that most people are fortunate to take for granted. Like eating and talking. Just one missing tooth—to say nothing of several—can make chewing some foods a challenge. As a consequence, malnourishment may become a very real concern. Also, teeth play a critical role in a person’s ability to speak clearly and enunciate words. If teeth are missing, then a person may be reluctant to talk. The result is lowered self-esteem and confidence, both of which can have adverse effects in both social and professional settings. Thus, the need to replace missing teeth is crucial for physical and emotional well-being. You have several options to choose from for tooth replacement, but one of the best is a dental implant. At Drake & Voto in Owasso, OK, our dentists have restored smiles and confidence for many patients with beautiful and comfortable dental implants.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a biocompatible titanium screw that is surgically set in your jawbone. This screw imitates a natural tooth root in both form and function. A dental implant firmly supports the porcelain crown that will replace the visible portion of your tooth. And below the gum line, an implant interacts with your bone tissue in much the same way as a natural tooth root. An implant stimulates healthy bone tissue regeneration. When you have a missing tooth or teeth, the surrounding bone tissue begins to atrophy without a root for stimulation. The implant does this job and thereby helps people maintain their normal facial structure.
The Dental Implant Procedure
When you come to Drake & Voto for a dental implant, we will first make sure you’re comfortable and relaxed in the dentist’s chair. It’s not unusual to be a bit nervous about getting a dental implant, so be sure to ask about sedation dentistry if you’d like something to help settle your nerves. Once you’re comfortable, we’ll administer a local anesthetic and Dr. Drake or Dr. Voto will insert the post. Healing will require between three to six months and you’ll wear a temporary restoration to protect the post and the surgery site. During this time, the implant and bone with bond, forming a solid foundation for your new tooth restoration. After some months, you’ll return to our Owasso dental office where one of our dentists will attach a custom-crafted porcelain crown in the case of a single missing tooth. If you are missing several teeth in a row, then we can attach a bridge to your implant. Likewise, dentures can be attached to dental implants strategically placed along an arch.
Contact Our Office Today
If you or a loved one is contending with the challenges of one or more missing teeth, then call the cosmetic dentist Owasso, OK, residents trust for more information about dental implants. We also serve the surrounding communities of Limestone, Valley Park, Verdigris, Collinsville and beyond.