At Generations Dental Care, we understand how missing teeth can affect your quality of life, from simple tasks like eating and speaking to the confidence you feel when you smile. Dental implants have become one of the most advanced and effective solutions for replacing missing teeth, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits. Whether you are missing one tooth or multiple, dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking option to restore your smile. Dr. Cummiskey and our experienced team are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you receive the best care and long-lasting results.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are false teeth made up of two parts. The first part is a small post, made of titanium, which is surgically implanted into the jawbone. This surgery is done by an oral surgeon. The post takes the place of the roots of a tooth, and as the area heals, bone fills in around it and it grafts with the jawbone, creating support for the new tooth. The healing process can take several weeks.
When the healing is complete, Dr. Cummiskey will then fit the second part of the dental implant, the permanent tooth. During the healing process, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth, but the permanent tooth is a customized porcelain tooth that, when Dr. Cummiskey places it, will look as natural as the teeth around it and be just as functional.
When you are missing more than one tooth, you don’t have to get an implant for every tooth. Dr. Cummiskey can discuss your options with you, but it depends on the stability that you want, as well as your budget. You could support a full arch of teeth with as few as two implants.
Choosing To Get Dental Implants
Sometimes if a missing tooth is not in an obvious place, patients are not always in a rush to replace it. Replacing a missing tooth, or especially multiple teeth, is not only about looks, it’s about the health of your mouth.
When your body senses that teeth are missing, it starts funneling the calcium and other minerals away from that part of your jawbone to other areas of the body. If this continues, the jawbone deteriorates and it can lead to what is called facial collapse, a condition which makes it difficult or even impossible to even wear dentures at all and can lead to other serious health issues.
When implants are placed, the body recognizes the need to continue to nourish the jawbone in that spot, preventing facial collapse.
Knowing If Implants Are Right For You
There are factors to consider in deciding whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. Being in good general health and having enough bone in your jaw to support implants are significant factors. Committing to care for your implants so they will last a long time is another. You will need to be vigilant in your daily oral routines and in your visits to Dr. Cummiskey for your cleanings and checkups, which should be up to four times a year.
Take The Next Step Towards A Complete, Healthy Smile
Choosing dental implants is an investment in both your oral health and your confidence. At Generations Dental Care, we are dedicated to helping you make the best choice for your unique situation. Dr. Cummiskey will provide a thorough consultation to assess your needs and guide you through the process of restoring your smile with dental implants.
If you would like more information about dental implants in Enfield, CT, you can discuss it with Dr. Cummiskey during a consultation. To schedule an appointment, book online or call our office today!