Dr. Joseph Thompson is a talented implant dentist in Greeley, CO. If you suffer from missing or failing teeth, our dental practice will review all your replacement options with you including dental implants. This innovative tooth replacement solution is the only solution that will replace your teeth without sacrificing your oral and overall health.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the number one solution for failing or missing teeth. Your dentist can use them to replace one, several or even an entire mouth of teeth. They will help your new teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Instead of the dental restoration relying on suction, adhesive or remaining, natural teeth to hold it in place, your dentist will secure it to dental implants. Not only will this restore your natural chewing ability and speech, they also provide stimulation to the jaw bone preventing bone loss.
Parts of a Dental Implant
Dental implants are a system of sophisticated dental components that make up an artificial tooth or several teeth. It consists of three main parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the dental restoration.
Implant Post
The implant post is a small, screw-shaped titanium rod. Your dentist will insert it into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth root. It is placed during a surgical procedure under local anesthesia. The healing process typically takes 3-6 months where the implant post fuses with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. This will create a stable base for the dental restoration.
We offer implant posts in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate the different locations along the top and bottom jaw. Shorter and wider implants are typically used towards the back of the mouth. Standard size implants are used when there is plenty of bone available. Mini dental implants are also available for patients who lack enough bone.
Abutment
The abutment is a connector piece that your dentist will attach to the implant post after the healing process is complete. It protrudes through the gums and serves as a platform for the dental restoration. The abutment can be made of titanium, zirconia, or porcelain. There are many different kinds of abutments available. Your dentist will chose the one for you based on the type of restoration that will be placed on top of it.
Dental Restoration
The dental restoration is the visible part of the implant that looks and functions like a natural tooth. It will be a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture, depending on the number of missing teeth. We will custom make the restoration to fit the abutment and blend in with the surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color. The goal is to create realistic teeth and a natural looking smile.
- Implant Dentistry: An Overview
- Additional Dental Implant FAQs
- The Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
- Dental Implants Cost
- Dental Implant Process
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of dental restorations can be supported by implants?
Dental implants can support single crowns, bridges, partial and full dentures. A single implant holds one crown, while multiple implants can anchor a bridge or stabilize full dentures. This makes implants a flexible solution for both small and large gaps.
Do dental implants look different from natural teeth?
No, dental implants are designed to match your natural teeth in shape, color, and size. Once healed and restored with a crown, the implant blends in with your smile. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference.
What is the recovery process like after implant surgery?
Initial healing takes a few days to a week, with mild swelling or soreness. Full healing and bone integration usually take 3 to 6 months. During this time, you’ll have checkups to monitor healing before the final crown or restoration is placed.
What happens if an implant doesn’t integrate with the jawbone?
If an implant doesn’t fuse with the bone, it may become loose and need removal. After healing, your dentist can evaluate the area and try again, possibly using a bone graft for better support. Failed integration is rare but treatable.
How do I know if I need a bone graft before implant placement?
Most implant patients need at least some minor bone grafting to create ideal conditions for long-term success. We determine this through detailed 3D imaging that shows your exact bone dimensions and density. If your tooth has been missing for over a year, bone loss has likely already occurred in that area.
The front upper teeth and molars typically need grafting more often than other areas due to their unique anatomy.
Can dental implants help prevent further bone loss in the jaw?
Yes, dental implants help preserve bone by stimulating the jaw during chewing, similar to natural teeth. Without tooth roots, the bone shrinks over time, but implants stop or slow this process. They help maintain facial structure and jaw strength long-term.
If you are looking for a durable, long-lasting solution for replacing teeth and restoring the function and aesthetics of a healthy smile, consider dental implants. Dr. Thompson offers several types of them to replace decaying teeth, failing teeth and missing teeth in Greeley, CO. Call our office at 970.205.9614 to book a consult today or request an appointment online.