Dental Implants
Advantages of Dental Implants in Columbia, SC
To replace a natural tooth, including the root, patients in Columbia, SC can get dental implants for a long-term, durable solution to a missing molar or incisor. The Smile Studio understands the benefits of investing in implants, and we encourage our clientele with tooth loss to take advantage of this permanent replacement. There are several advantages of a dental implant. They look and function the same as your natural teeth. Placing an implant for a single tooth doesn’t impact the health of the remaining teeth. The alternatives to implants aren’t always as good. For instance, a tooth-support fixed bridge is common treatment for single tooth loss, but it requires a dentist to grind down the neighboring teeth to support a cemented bridge. On the other hand, because implants replace the root, they also preserves the bone. Bridges can result in some bone deteriorating, but since dental implants integrate with the jawbone, it stays intact. For long-term benefits, implants keep their aesthetic and clean easier than bridges. If your gums recede around a bridge, the metal base is exposed. The cement holding a bridge can also wash out and allow bacteria in, leading to tooth decay.
The Implant Placement Process
The process for placing a dental implant has been around for many years, and our professional staff has the training and expertise needed to ensure a successful procedure. Dr. Thompson and the entire team at The Smile Studio wants you to feel comfortable with any treatment you receive at our practice. Part of the anxiety before a procedure can come from a lack of understanding about it.
Steps we take to place your dental implant:
- The first step we take is placing the implant in your jaw. The implant itself looks like a cylinder or screw.
- For the following two to six months, the implant and bone bond together and form a sturdy anchor for the artificial tooth. While you wait, you can wear a temporary tooth replacement.
- The second procedural step is often necessary. If needed, we uncover your implant and attach an extension, or abutment. This abutment is a small metal post that completes the foundation for your new tooth. We’ll give your gums a couple of weeks to heal after this step.
- For the last step, we create a replacement tooth, or crown, and attach it to the abutment. At this point, we’ve restored your smile. After a little time passes, you’ll regain confidence in your ability to chew, speak, and smile.
Regain Your Bite & Confidence After Tooth Loss
The Smile Studio assures you we prioritize preserving your oral health with an emphasis on your comfort. After a single tooth loss, a dental implant provides a solution to permanently restore your smile and preserve your jawbone and surrounding teeth. Give us a call today to set up an appointment with Dr. Thompson to discuss whether a dental implant is a suitable choice for you.