Several options can help rebuild a smile with missing teeth, but none are as durable as dental implants. Dr. Joseph Thompson strongly recommends this advanced treatment option for damaged or missing teeth. Thompson Advanced Dentistry offers full dental implant services under one roof so you don’t need to travel to multiple offices or specialists.
Dawson dentist Dr. Joseph Thompson uses the latest dental implant techniques and has incorporated digital technology to ensure the best possible outcomes. We offer dental implant services as part of our dental services to new and existing patients in Loveland, CO.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a tiny, screw-like post placed in the jaw bone during a minor surgical procedure. They provide durable support for replacement teeth. A single missing tooth can be replaced with an implant-supported dental crown. Implants can even replace multiple teeth or an entire mouth of missing teeth by anchoring a dental bridge or denture.
More attractive options are now available for missing teeth besides the standard dental bridge or denture. We use the latest dental technology for state-of-the-art treatment.
Dental implants have become the number one solution for replacing missing teeth. Not only do they look, feel, and function like natural teeth, but they are actually better for your oral health. Implants are the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth at the root. Replacing the tooth root helps prevent bone loss.
The Top Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth. This strong and natural-looking solution can improve your oral health and confidence. Benefits of dental implants in Loveland, CO include:
- Support the Jawbone: After you lose a tooth, the bone in that area can begin to shrink over time. Dental implant posts act as new tooth roots. Implants stimulate the bone to maintain your facial shape and rebuild your bite.
- Help You Bite and Chew: Dental implants restore strong biting and chewing ability. Because we place implants securely in the jawbone, you can enjoy your favorite foods without worry. Implants feel stable and won’t slip like traditional dentures.
- Don’t Damage Teeth: Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants do not rely on nearby teeth for support. This means healthy teeth do not need to be altered or filed down. Keeping surrounding teeth intact helps protect your natural smile and long-term dental health.
- Last For Years: Dental implant posts are designed to be permanent and long-lasting. With proper care, the implant itself can last a lifetime. While you may need to replace your restoration over time, you won’t need to replace the implant posts.
Dr. Thompson will help determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants with a thorough dental exam. He’ll ensure you’re as healthy as possible for the best treatment outcomes. Dr. Thompson will also work with you to find the best implant-supported restoration.
Why Choose Dr. Thompson for Implants?
Dr. Thompson is a Dawson-trained dentist. The Dawson Academy is one of the world’s leading programs for treating complex dental cases. He also trained at the Misch International Implant Institute, where he mastered surgical implant placement and 3D CAD/CAM guided implant surgery.
But his practice is built on more than credentials. Dr. Thompson acquired this practice from Dr. Roderic Kirk, who had been serving Greeley families since 1957. That foundation of trust, combined with Dr. Thompson’s advanced skills, means you get the best of both worlds: experience you can count on and techniques that are at the forefront of modern dentistry.
The Implant Process in Loveland, CO
Dr. Thompson will first conduct a consultation at his dental office. He’ll make sure you have enough healthy bone structure in the jaw to support the implant. You will also need to be in good overall health.
Dr. Thompson may recommend pre-treatments like bone grafting to build up healthy jaw bone. If you have cavities, tooth decay, or gum disease, he’ll address these problems first. Once you’re healthy, Dr. Thompson will begin your treatment.
Imaging
Dr. Thompson uses advanced 3D CAD/CAM guided implant surgery to place dental implants with precision. This technology allows Dr. Thompson to plan the implant placement in detail before surgery. Using 3D imaging, he can see the exact position of the jawbone, nerves, and surrounding structures. These images improve accuracy and comfort during the procedure.
Surgery
The dental implant process is multi-step, beginning with the surgical placement of the implant posts into the jaw bone. Dr. Thompson offers IV sedation for this portion to ensure your comfort during the surgery. The number of implants placed will determine the length of your surgery.
Dr. Thompson will place the implant posts in the jaw bone beneath the gums. You won’t feel any pain because he numbs your mouth first and offers IV and oral conscious sedation. He’ll also place a cap over each implant for protection or a temporary restoration.
Healing and Abutment Placement
The healing time can take from 2 to 6 months. During this time, the implant posts will fuse with the surrounding jawbone during a process known as osseointegration. Once you’re healed, Dr. Thompson will place the abutments.
An abutment is a connector piece that connects the implant post to your restoration. You’ll need more time for your gums to heal around the abutment.
Final Restoration
The last step is to secure the dental restoration. Dr. Thompson will place your new custom dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. Your restoration will look and feel just like natural teeth.
We recommend that you continue to make routine dentist appointments at our Loveland, CO area dental office. Our team will help keep your restoration functional and healthy.
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Dental Implant Aftercare: How to Make Your Implants Last
Your dental implants are an investment in your smile and your health. With proper care, they can last a lifetime. Here’s what you need to know to keep you and your implants healthy.
Daily Care
Caring for implants is simple. To clean your dental implants, brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss once a day, paying special attention to the area around your implant.
If you have an implant-supported crown or bridge, use an interdental brush or water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas. Unlike dentures, implants don’t need to be removed for cleaning or overnight soaking.
Diet
During the healing phase, you’ll want to stick with soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could disrupt the implant site.
Once your implant has fully integrated and your final restoration is placed, you can eat whatever you want. Crunchy fruits, fresh vegetables, and chewy meats are all back on the menu. That’s one of the biggest advantages of implants over traditional dentures.
What to Avoid
A few habits can shorten the life of your implants. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails. If you grind or clench your teeth, talk to Dr. Thompson about a custom night guard. Grinding can put excessive pressure on your implants and restorations.
Also, if you smoke or use tobacco, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your implant health. Smoking increases the risk of implant failure and gum disease.
Routine Dental Visits
You need regular checkups to maintain your implants. During these visits, Dr. Thompson will examine your implant, check the surrounding gum tissue, and take X-rays to ensure the bone is healthy. We recommend visits every six months, just like with natural teeth. If you have a history of gum disease, we may recommend more frequent visits.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Implants have a success rate of over 95%, but problems can occur. Contact our office if you notice any of these signs:
- Pain or discomfort around the implant
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- A loose or wobbly implant
- A loose crown, bridge, or denture
- Persistent bad breath
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Catching problems early makes them easier to treat. If you notice anything unusual, don’t wait. Call us.
How much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants require a significant investment but offer many more benefits than alternative treatments, especially long-term benefits. The average cost of a single-tooth implant in Loveland, CO, is around $4,500, but it can be higher depending on various factors. The number and location of your missing teeth, along with your oral health, will affect the total cost.
While dentures and dental bridges cost less, they also require more care and maintenance. You’ll eventually need to replace, realign, or rebase dentures or bridges over time. Over time, this cost may exceed the cost of implants.
The initial cost of dental implants may be higher, but they’re a permanent solution and will help prevent bone loss. With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime.
Schedule an Implant Consultation Today
Do you need to replace lost teeth? Call Dr. Thompson to learn more about dental implants and which option is best for you. Contact our office at 970-205-9614. You can also request an appointment online.
Dr. Thompson welcomes patients from around the Greeley, CO area, including Johnstown, CO, and Loveland, CO.