Close the gaps in your smile with dental implants, a permanent tooth replacement option. Dental implants replace missing teeth, restore your smile, and restore normal tooth functioning. There are several additional benefits to getting dental implants, as well. At The Family Dentist, Dr. Alexander Smith is your dentist in Westminster, CO, for dental implants.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a durable, long-lasting tooth replacement option. Dental implants replace both missing teeth and their roots. There are three components to a dental implant, including a metal implant, an abutment, and a crown. The metal implant is drilled directly into the jaw bone and acts as a tooth root, anchoring the entire dental implant in place. The crown is installed above the gum line and functions as the replacement tooth. The abutment connects the metal implant and crown together.

The placement of dental implants requires at least two appointments. The metal implant is placed first. The abutment may also be placed during the same appointment. The crown is not placed for several weeks following installation of the metal implant. During this time, the gums have a chance to heal and the metal implant fuses with the jawbone through a natural process known as osseointegration. Once the metal implant is fused with the jawbone, the crown can be placed.

Crowns are the only portion of the dental implant visible after installation. Crowns are custom made for each individual for a perfect fit. Additionally, crowns look just like natural teeth. No one will be able to tell you have a crown. Further, crowns function like regular teeth and can be used for normal functions, such as biting and chewing food. With proper care, your crown and dental implant will last for many years. Your Westminster, CO, dentist can help you decide if dental implants are the right tooth replacement option for you.

Benefits of Dental Implants

There are several benefits to choosing dental implants as your tooth replacement option. Benefits of dental implants include:

• Restoration of your smile
• Replacement of missing teeth
• Look and function like natural teeth
• Reduce strain on surrounding teeth
• Prevent teeth from shifting into gaps
• Last for years

Dental implants replace missing teeth and close the gaps in your smile. For dental implants in Westminster, CO, schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith by calling The Family Dentist at (303) 427-8690.