Missing teeth are often more than a dental problem. They can affect daily quality of life, lower your self confidence, and create a significant amount of embarrassment and anxiety in your life. Replacing your missing teeth is the only way to restore your smile and your appearance. Dr. Amy Marckese with DentalSpa offers dental implants Indianapolis, IN for patients who are missing one or more teeth.
Dental implants are just one of the several restorative dentistry options we offer to replace teeth and enhance your natural smile. They provide the best long term results to support your oral health, overall health, and aesthetics.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Dr. Marckese emphasizes the importance of maintaining and restoring the stability and health of all teeth. Even one missing or severely damaged tooth can lead to complex dental problems down the road. Addressing a missing tooth right away can ensure that you prevent additional dental health problems from developing.
If you are missing teeth, it may be hard to eat certain foods or pronounce certain words. Replacing teeth restores your ability to chew and speak properly with ease. When you can chew your food thoroughly, you can avoid digestive problems and discomfort. Gaps created by tooth loss cause the surrounding teeth to shift or move towards the spaces. This can create bite problems and TMJ issues. People who have missing teeth also are at higher risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and further tooth loss.
Replacing your teeth with a dental implant restored restoration is the best option and will help avoid these issues. They are a permanent, natural looking solution for missing or broken teeth. They bring back full function to patients allowing them to eat and speak normally without limitations.
Dental Implants in Indianapolis, IN
A dental implant fixture is a bio-compatible titanium post. It has threads and resembles a screw. It requires surgical implantation into the jaw bone by a trained oral surgeon or dentist. When fully integrated with the bone, the dental implant will provide stability and support for a replacement tooth. The implant fixture will also replace the root of the missing tooth.
Dental implants are versatile dental restorations that can replace any number of missing teeth. A single tooth implant can replace one missing tooth by supporting a dental crown. Multiple dental implants can replace all of your missing teeth by supporting a denture or dental bridge.
Dental implants provides patients with may advantages over other tooth replacement options including:
- Reduced bone loss: The implant post acts like a tooth root and helps maintain healthy bone tissue.
- Natural smile appearance and function: Your dentist custom matches the dental implant to remaining natural teeth to enhance your smile.
- Patients can eat and speak normally: It fits securely and permanently in the mouth, allowing patients to eat a varied healthy diet without concerns about slippage.
- No need for daily maintenance: One of the most convenient benefits, no need for adhesives and fear of an appliance falling out.
The Dental Implant Process
Dr. Amy Marckese is able to provide all types of dental implants in Indianapolis, IN at her dentist office. Dr. Marckese will coordinate the entire treatment plan and work closely with a local specialist for the initial oral surgery phase; the surgical placement of the post into the jaw. Our staff will assist you with any scheduling in the event that our dentist refers you to a specialist.
If you need a tooth extraction, your dentist will perform it first. Then, your dentist will surgically place the dental implant in your jawbone. The implant is a small titanium post that will fuse with the living bone as it heals. This forms a solid structure for the replacement tooth.
In some cases, Dr. Marckese may be able to immediately complete the dental implant with a dental crown, bridge, or denture. In other instances, we will place a temporary restoration while the dental implant heals and integrates with the jaw bone.
It typically takes 3 to 6 months for the implant to fully fuse with the jawbone. Finally, your dentist will attach the final restoration to the dental implant to complete the permanent restoration. You will be able to enjoy your beautiful smile in no time.
Frequent Questions
Learn more about dental implants by reading through answers to commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions, we suggest booking a consultation or calling our office during business hours.
How long will the dental implant treatment take?
Dental Implant treatment is usually a two-part procedure. The first part of the procedure involves the surgical placement of the implant. Dr. Marckese will follow up with you for the next phase of treatment.
When possible, the surgeon will place a temporary crown while the implant heals (about 3 – 6 months). Once the dental implant has integrated with the bone, you will return to DentalSpa for the final restoration of the implant.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants can technically be for patients of any age with sufficient healthy jaw bone. Dr. Marckese will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you are a candidate. It is important that you have enough bone to support the implant.
If you do not have enough bone structure, Dr. Marckese may coordinate with a specialist to complete bone grafting prior to the implant surgery. You should also be free of gum disease, as this can hinder the healing process.
Are there any alternatives to implants?
Yes, DentalSpa offers a variety of treatments for missing teeth. We offer dental bridges, dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures. Dr. Marckese will work with you to determine which choice is best for your dental health and personal smile goals.
How do I take care of my dental implants?
Dental implants require good oral hygiene practices similar to your natural teeth. Even though dental implants are not susceptible to cavities, the surrounding gum tissue and remaining teeth need to be kept healthy. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential. The better you care for you oral health, the longer your restoration will last.
Can I get dental implants if I smoke?
While smoking can affect the success of dental implants, it will not eliminate you as a candidate. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss the best approach for your specific situation. However, quitting smoking before your implant placement will improve the chances of success.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants in Indianapolis
If you are missing teeth and interested in the best dental implants Indianapolis has to offer, schedule a dental exam and consultation with our trusted dentist in Indianapolis, Dr. Amy Marckese. We will discuss your dental health, cosmetic goals for your smile, and budget concerns to determine if dental implants are right for you. We are currently accepting new patients! Give our dentistry a call today.