Dental Implants in Topeka KS

The best solution to replace missing teeth

 

Dental implants are the only solution for missing teeth that replace the entire tooth, from root to crown. They are also the only permanent replacement for missing teeth, giving you a lifetime of comfortable eating and speaking while restoring your smile. Dental implants are more than a cosmetic fix because the tooth’s root is replaced, strengthening the jawbone and mimicking the bite force of natural teeth. Traditional dentures and bridges replace only the visible part of the tooth and do not prevent atrophy of the jawbone as implants do. This should all be kept in mind when considering the cost of dental implants and comparing quotes to other tooth replacement options.

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Anatomy of a Dental Implant

Dental implants have three parts: the screw or implant, abutment, and restoration. These three parts work together to serve the function of a natural tooth’s root and crown. When a tooth is lost, you risk deterioration of the jawbone where the tooth root is missing. This can lead to shifting of the adjacent teeth and distortion of your facial structure. Dental implants are the only way to replace the entire structure of your tooth and preserve jawbone health.

Diagram of a dental implant

Implant or Screw

The implant is a titanium screw or post inserted into the jawbone to replace the tooth root. The titanium screw is biocompatible and fuses with the surrounding bone, creating a solid foundation for the rest of the replacement tooth and maintaining bone density in the jaw.

Abutment

Abutment is a fancy word for the metal clip or connector that attaches the top of the screw to the restoration.

Restoration

Depending on how many teeth are replaced and the type of dental implants, a restoration may be a crown, permanent bridge, or fixed denture. Once the restoration is attached using the abutment, it is usually cemented into place with dental cement.

Reasons to Consider Dental Implants

Implant dentistry focuses on restoring not just your appearance, but the proper function and bite force lost when teeth are missing. While dentures and bridges are alternatives that work for many patients, they have drawbacks, including their tendency to slip, click, and shift. Dental implants are an alternative that restore your natural tooth function in ways no other restoration can provide.
Among the advantages of dental implants are:

  • Natural appearance – Implants look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. Only your dentist will know they are not your original teeth.
  • Comfort – Dentures and bridges can be uncomfortable, shifting in the mouth, clicking, and slipping at inopportune times. Some patients develop painful pressure points on their gums where their bite force is concentrated because there is no tooth root.
  • Preventing Jawbone Loss – Implants do the work of tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone to prevent deterioration. Because the jawbone remains strong, adjacent teeth do not shift due to bone loss. The implants also help maintain the natural contours of your jawbone, so you avoid the sunken look many people develop after tooth loss.
  • Better Oral Health – Dental implants promote oral health by stimulating and maintaining the jawbone and allowing the gums and surrounding tissues to function normally. Restorations made of porcelain or other biocompatible materials do not develop cavities or contribute to gum disease.
  • Improved Eating – Missing teeth, dentures, and bridges can all interfere with your eating choices. Dental implants give you back the ability to eat even the crunchiest, hardest, stickiest foods without worry.
  • Easy Care – Dental implants are cared for just like your natural teeth. Brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups are all that is needed to care for and maintain your dental implants—no need to use special cleaners or remove dentures or bridges at night.
  • Convenience – Traveling or staying with friends is easier when you do not need to worry about forgetting or misplacing dentures or bridges. There is no embarrassment or need to pack a container for your dentures, and you do not have to worry about anyone seeing you without your teeth.

“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”

For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.

Maintaining & Caring for Your Dental Implants

Although dental implants do not get cavities, your gums remain vulnerable to inflammation and infection without proper oral hygiene. Our tips for good implant care include:

  • Brushing at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush
  • Avoid abrasive toothpaste
  • Focus on brushing around and under the restoration
  • Floss every day with unwaxed floss
  • Rinse your mouth daily with a non-alcoholic mouthwash
  • Have a professional dental cleaning and checkup twice a year

At Capital Oral Surgery, our oral surgeons have years of experience and hundreds of hours of advanced training backed by our dedication to providing you with exceptional results and a beautiful, healthy smile. If you are interested in dental implants, a consultation with one of our oral surgeons is the first step. Contact our office at Topeka Office Phone Number (785) 588-4244 or schedule an appointment online.