If you have a missing tooth or teeth, getting dental implants is the best way to restore your smile. Unlike dentures or a dental bridge, dental implants can make you forget that you’ve missed teeth in the first place. At West Gate Dental, we provide comprehensive, high-quality implant dentistry. We want everyone to feel confident and comfortable about their smile. But many wonder if dental implants actually work like natural teeth, and how they work and feel. If you’re interested in getting a dental implant(s), here’s what you need to know about dental implants, and how they can restore your smile!
Looks & Structure
For dental implants to work, they have to look and work like natural teeth. Because dental implants keep restorations firmly in place, your replacement teeth will look just like natural teeth when you eat, speak and smile. Structurally, they come in different forms that help the implant work like a natural tooth. This includes:
- Root form – A small post (usually made of titanium) replaces the missing tooth’s root. Screw-like threads around the post vary in depth depending on where and how much the root touches your jawbone. Root forms can vary in length and diameter; your dentist will select a size that is comparable to your missing tooth’s roots.
- The implant post – this thin, titanium rod is like the roots of a tooth. Each post is inserted into a pilot hole in the jawbone, just as teeth take root in the same location. Over time, the titanium fuses with the bone.
- Abutment – this connector attaches to the implant posts and sits just above the gum line, where it anchors the restoration. This is when a connector screw on top of a dental implant. The abutment sits just above the gum line to support a dental crown.
- Dental crown – A crown, or what’s known as a “cap”, replaces the visible portion of your tooth above the gumline.
Feel & Function
If you’ve worn conventional dentures, you’ll notice a huge difference when upgrading to dental implants. Unlike dentures, dental implants don’t just look like natural teeth, they’ll feel relatively close to the real thing – especially when eating foods or talking.
- Eating/Drinking- After implants are put in, you can enjoy the foods you love. Unlike a dental bridge or dentures, food will not get trapped beneath a dental implant.
- Speech- If you are missing a tooth or teeth, this can cause you to pronounce words with a slur or lisp. With dental implants, those issues can be resolved and you’ll be able to speak naturally.
Get Dental Implants Today!
If you’re interested (or in need) in getting dental implants, contact West Gate Dental today! We provide a diverse group of dental treatments for different needs. We’ll make sure that your dental implants work and feel like your natural teeth! Our Lincoln, NE office consists highly of Dr. Sowers and her staff who are here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful-looking smile. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us! We can’t wait to work with you!