Dental implants are the most natural missing tooth replacement option. They provide improved smile aesthetics, structural support, and long-term oral health benefits. Dr. Amy Marckese offers dental implants in Indianapolis, IN. She utilizes state-of-the-art dental technology and the most progressive in both materials and techniques to provide patients with quality dental implant restorations.
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth in the form of a custom dental crown, which is permanently secured in the jaw with a tiny titanium post. This titanium (a strong but light metal) post is surgically implanted into the jawbone beneath the gum line. The post acts like a tooth root, stimulating healthy bone growth to avoid jaw shrinkage which often occurs after tooth loss.
A dental implant functions like a natural tooth, enabling patients to enjoy normal speech and a healthy diet without restrictions. Dental implants do not come loose like dentures and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. With proper dental care and good oral hygiene, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
Parts of the dental implant
Implant post: The implant is a bio-compatible titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jaw bone. It is designed to fuse with the jaw bone creating a permanent and secure bond.
Abutment: This piece connects to the implant after it has fully healed, at the gum line and secures the dental crown or over denture.
Prosthetic tooth: The dental restoration can be a dental crown for a single missing tooth, a dental bridge for several consecutive missing teeth, or a denture when most or all of the teeth are missing.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Your teeth are made to work together to help you smile, eat, and talk. When you are missing even one tooth, these instinctive actions become difficult to do. Our dentist in Indianapolis, IN uses dental implants for both a cosmetic and restorative dental solution for missing teeth. Untreated, tooth loss can lead to complex dental concerns especially shifting of your teeth.
Patients who do not replace missing teeth are more prone to developing tooth decay, additional tooth loss, and even bone deterioration.
Your jawbone needs stimulation to stay healthy. Without the natural root structure to support the surrounding teeth and the jaw, the bone will begin to wear away and recede. As the jaw recedes it may make the face look withdrawn and prematurely aged. Dental implants will support the bone structure preventing deterioration or further damage.
Learn More About Dental Implants
- The Benefits of Dental Implants
- FAQ: Dental Implants
- Dental Implant Procedure
- Types of Dental Implants
- Cost of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
- Multiple Dental Implants
- Single Dental Implants
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation
If you have missing teeth and are interested in getting dental implants near you, contact our dentist in Indianapolis, IN. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Amy Marckese today! Dr. Marckese will discuss your dental health, cosmetic goals, and budget concerns to determine if dental implants are right for you at your dental care consultation.