Dental Implants
Dental Implants in Salt Lake City, UT
Come to Complete Smiles in Salt Lake City and West Jordan, Utah, when you need a long-term tooth replacement solution. We will examine your mouth and explain your tooth replacement options, including dental implants. Dental implants help people maintain good function and attractive looks whether they lose one tooth or multiple teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a metal screw that acts like a tooth’s root. A replacement tooth or a bridge of teeth is attached to the implant. The screw is surgically placed into your jaw, fusing to the bone, forming a strong and permanent base for your tooth replacement.
When Do You Need a Dental Implant?
You may need a dental implant if you are missing one or more teeth. Implants act like natural teeth, protecting your mouth and gums from the bone loss and shifting of teeth that often occur after a tooth falls out or is extracted. Implants also restore your tooth’s function so you can chew, bite, and speak normally.
What is Guided Implant Surgery?
We use advanced imaging technology to guide us in the dental implant process. The computer aids in manufacturing replacement teeth and implants that are precisely the right size. This technology also allows us to place the implants in the right spot in your mouth for the best results. Guided implant surgery ensures better accuracy and a faster procedure.
Types of Dental Implant Restorations
At Complete Smiles, we offer a few different types of services for dental implant restorations, depending on your needs.
- Single-Tooth Implants: One implant is surgically placed where one tooth is missing. A replacement tooth specially designed to match the rest of your teeth is attached to the implant.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: If more than one tooth in a row is missing, we can replace them with a bridge of replacement teeth. The bridge is attached to one or more implants for a permanent solution that does not shift or move around in your mouth.
- All-On-4 Dental Implants: If you are missing all of your teeth, we can create a complete bridge of teeth and support them with four implants. Unlike typical dentures, this complete tooth replacement option is not removable.
- Bone Grafting: Implants require a certain amount of bone in your jaw to work correctly. If you do not have enough bone, we may be able to surgically graft bone (from your own body or an external source) into your existing jawbone.
Benefits of Replacing Teeth with Dental Implants
Still wondering if dental implants are right for you? By getting dental implants, you are improving your ability to chew well, your gums will look healthier, and they help reduce bone loss after you lose a tooth. Additionally, the replacement teeth help keep the rest of your natural teeth from shifting, and you can brush and floss your teeth like normal. As a permanent solution, they will not need to be removed every night.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Implant screws are designed to last a lifetime. They are typically made of titanium, which reacts favorably with human tissues. The permanent tooth replacement attached to the implant usually lasts 10-15 years, but they can last longer with proper care. It is important to get regular dental checkups so your dentist can keep an eye on the condition of your dental implants.
Discuss Dental Implants with an Experienced Dentist
The dentists at Complete Smiles are always happy to talk to patients about tooth replacement options. When you schedule an appointment in one of our Salt Lake City or West Jordan, Utah dental offices, you will receive an examination and a personalized treatment plan for your unique mouth. We will answer your questions and help you feel more comfortable about the dental implant process. Contact us today to get started!