In years past, options were limited for anyone who had lost a tooth and needed a prosthetic replacement. However, dental technology has come along way since then—with dental implants being an excellent solution to improve smiles. Find out whether this dental procedure is right for you by consulting the following guide.

A Guide to Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

Unlike dentures and bridges, implants replace missing teeth by mimicking the structure of a natural tooth. When installing implants, the dentist fits a piece of titanium in the jawbone that peeks out through your gums and acts as an artificial tooth root. They can then attach a crown, bridge, or denture to the “root” rather than being attached to your remaining teeth or directly to your gums.

What Are the Benefits?

The most significant benefit of dental implants is that they feel more natural. In fact, many people can't tell the difference between their implants and their natural teeth. This makes eating easier and puts less strain on your remaining teeth. Dental implants also don’t require special care beyond your regular oral hygiene routine.

When & Why You Should Get Them

If you have one or more missing teeth that you’d like to replace, implants could be the right solution. However, the dentist will have to do a thorough examination of your mouth to determine that you are in good overall health before starting the procedure.

Ideal candidates typically have plenty of jawbone mass to support the implant hardware and are generally healthy. Some risk factors include smoking and certain chronic illnesses such as leukemia and diabetes, which can hinder the healing process.

Find out whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants by contacting Steckelberg Dental in Lincoln, NE. The staff at this dental clinic is dedicated to providing outstanding restorative procedures while helping each patient feel as comfortable as possible. These dentists and hygienists will take the time to put you at ease before providing you with personalized treatment. Find out more about the practice online or make an appointment for your first consultation by calling (402) 489-7800.