Harlow Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
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Choosing Dental Implants: What to Expect and How They Work

June 24, 2024
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Even if you brush and floss your teeth daily and regularly visit your Charlotte dentist, you may lose one or more of your teeth at some point. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers numerous options for tooth replacement.

The preferred tooth replacement option is dental implants because of their functionality and appearance. So, when choosing dental implants, what can you expect? Keep reading to learn more.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a titanium post surgically positioned into your jaw to mimic your tooth’s root. Once it heals and integrates with your jawbone, we can add a dental crown or other restoration to restore your smile and self-confidence.

After this cosmetic dentistry procedure is complete, you’ll be able to bite down and chew with ease. We can even use Invisalign® clear aligners before or after a dental implant procedure.

The Advantages of Replacing Your Teeth

There are numerous benefits to replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, including the following:

  • Decreased bone loss — Because your dental implants act as your tooth’s root, they stimulate your jawbone, keeping it from losing valuable density.
  • Bite function — You can expect to bite down and chew all your favorite foods once your dental implants heal.
  • Longevity — With proper care, your dental implants could last a lifetime.
  • Improved oral health — When you replace the gaps in your smile, your other teeth won’t shift into the open spaces.

The Process: What to Expect

  1. Once we determine you’re a candidate for dental implants, we will use computerized images to precisely plan your implant placement.
  2. Then, we will use a local anesthetic to completely numb your mouth before placing your dental implant into your jaw.
  3. Over the next few months, a process known as osseointegration occurs where the implant integrates with your jawbone.
  4. Once healed, we will add the appropriate dental restoration, either a dental crown, bridge, partial or full denture.

That’s it!

Thinking about Dental Implants in Charlotte, NC?

We would love to hear from you if you would like to learn more about your tooth replacement options! At Harlow Dental, our goal is to combine optimal oral health and aesthetic beauty, and dental implants can provide both.

Contact our dental office at (704) 588-1515 to get started today.

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