Are Dental Implants Right for You?

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may already know how it affects your confidence, your ability to eat, and even how you speak. 

The good news is that you can replace missing teeth with full and partial dentures, bridges, or dental implants here at CLE Smiles by Dr. Niki in Lakeland, Ohio.

Dental implants are growing in popularity and are one of the most reliable and natural-looking options to restore your smile, but are they the right choice for you?

That’s exactly what Dr. Niki is here to explain. Read on as she explains what dental implants are and the top signs that dental implants may be the right option for you.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that act like replacement tooth roots. Once placed in your jawbone, they fuse with the bone to provide a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. This process is called osseointegration, and it’s what makes your dental implant so strong.

Implants are designed to look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.

Are dental implants right for you?

You might consider dental implants if:

You have one or more missing teeth

Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or even provide full-mouth restoration with implant-supported dentures.

In other words, Dr. Niki can use dental implants to replace a single tooth, a few teeth, or all of your teeth. You might even include dental implants as part of a comprehensive smile makeover.

You aren’t a smoker

Smoking can slow healing while simultaneously increasing the risk of implant failure. If you don’t smoke — or are willing to quit — you may have a higher chance of long-term success.

You have enough jawbone to support the implant

Implants need a solid foundation — jawbone — so that they stay in place. Without enough jawbone, your implant may fail. 

The good news is that if you’ve experienced bone loss, bone grafting may be an option before implant placement.

You’re committed to recovery and long-term care

Healing takes time, and implants need good daily oral hygiene and regular checkups to last a lifetime. Being committed to aftercare helps make sure that you receive the best possible results.

You want the benefits of dental implants and coverage of dentures 

Your natural teeth stimulate your jawbone to stay healthy, but when teeth are lost, that stimulation stops, which can lead to jawbone atrophy. 

Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that restores this stimulation and helps prevent bone loss.

Unlike dentures, which only replace the visible part of your teeth, implants do both: They protect your jawbone and can replace all of your teeth, just like dentures.

Alternatives to dental implants

Dental implants aren’t the only option. Depending on your needs, Dr. Niki may recommend dentures (either full or partial) or bridges.

In other words, we have what you need here at CLE Smiles by Dr. Niki to restore your teeth and your smile.

Get started with dental implants 

Consider your dental implants as an investment in both your smile and your confidence. If you’d like to learn whether you’re a candidate, schedule a consultation with CLE Smiles by Dr. Niki today. 

Dr. Niki and her team will guide you through your options and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile.

You can also reach us at 216-616-1385.