Losing a tooth can be a stressful experience, impacting not only your smile’s appearance but also your ability to chew, speak, and feel confident.
While options like bridges and dentures have been used for years, a more modern and effective solution is dental implants. At Dentistry at 1818 Market St., Dr. Jonathan Siegel and Dr. Lynda Bard specialize in providing this permanent, life-changing solution to patients in Center City, Philadelphia.
What Exactly Is a Dental Implant?
Think of a dental implant as a new, permanent tooth root. Unlike a bridge that is anchored to adjacent teeth or a denture that rests on your gums, a dental implant is a small, biocompatible post—typically made of titanium—that is surgically placed into your jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating an incredibly strong and stable foundation for a replacement tooth, or crown.
This three-part structure—the implant post, an abutment (a connector), and the custom-made crown—is the closest thing you can get to a natural tooth.
The Unmatched Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a host of advantages that go far beyond a restored smile:
- Prevents Bone Loss: When a tooth is missing, the jawbone in that area can begin to deteriorate. A dental implant acts just like a natural tooth root, providing the necessary stimulation to keep the bone healthy and strong.
- A Natural Look and Feel: Because they are custom-made to match your existing teeth, no one will be able to tell you have an implant. They feel and function so much like a natural tooth that you can eat all your favorite foods without worry.
- Long-Term Durability: With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime, making it a highly cost-effective and long-term investment in your oral health.
- Protects Surrounding Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, which require altering the structure of neighboring teeth to support the restoration, implants are a stand-alone solution. This protects your healthy teeth from unnecessary wear and tear.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most people who are missing a tooth are good candidates for dental implants. The ideal candidate has:
- Good general and oral health: Healthy gums and a commitment to good oral hygiene are essential for success.
- Sufficient jawbone density: A strong jawbone is needed to support the implant. However, even if you have experienced bone loss, a bone grafting procedure can be performed to prepare the site for a successful implant.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Siegel and Dr. Bard will conduct a thorough examination and review your medical history to determine if dental implants are the right solution for you. They will take the time to answer all your questions and develop a personalized treatment plan.
If you’re ready to restore your smile with a permanent, natural-looking solution, contact us today to learn more about dental implants. We are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
Don’t let a missing tooth hold you back any longer.
If you’re ready to restore your smile with a permanent, natural-looking solution, contact us today to chedule a consultation with Dr. Siegel and Dr. Bard.
