Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a metal post (usually titanium) that acts like a natural tooth root would to support a crown. If you have missing teeth, you owe it to yourself to schedule a consultation with one of our dental implant dentists. Dental implants not only restore your smile, but improve speech, chewing, and self-esteem.

Benefits of Dental Implants

The dental implants process lasts several months. However, many of our patients feel that it’s worth waiting for a tooth implant that looks and feels natural. Unlike dentures, dental implants are fused to your jawbone so they never move.

Dental Implant Procedure

During dental implant surgery, our dentist inserts the implant into your jawbone. Over the next several months, this implant will fuse to your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Our dentists will monitor your progress to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Once osseointegration is complete, our dentist will call you back to our office to have the abutment and dental crown placed. A porcelain crown covers the implant and gives you the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

Dental Implants FAQ

1. What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root, typically made of titanium, that supports a crown much like a natural tooth root would. Dental implants are designed to fill in gaps where teeth are missing so a patient’s smile can be restored.
2. What are the benefits of dental implants?
There are several benefits that come with having dental implants. For one, they are more stable than dentures because they are anchored to your jawbone. This means there is no worry about them moving at inopportune times.

Dental implants also look and feel natural. Thanks to their long-lasting stability, you’ll be able to continue eating many of your favorite foods.

3. What is the dental implant procedure?
The entire dental implant process takes several months to complete. Our dentists will first confirm that you are indeed a candidate for dental implant surgery and if you are, will begin the procedure at a scheduled time.

During your first appointment, we will administer anesthesia before inserting the implant into your jawbone. Over the next few months, the tooth implant will fuse to your jawbone. This process is known as osseointegration.

Your healing will be monitored by our dentists and once the implantation is complete, you’ll return to have a porcelain crown placed over the implant.

4. Are there alternatives to dental implants?
If you are not a candidate for dental implant surgery or you are comfortable with removable teeth, we recommend that you try either full or partial dentures. Dentures also are designed to function like real teeth and can help you regain confidence in your smile.
5. How long do dental implants last?
If treated with care and proper oral hygiene habits are practiced, dental implants can last decades. Continue to floss and brush daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

Get Quality Dental Care

Our West Michigan family dentists provide quality dental care to patients of all ages. With five convenient West Michigan locations, we have the capability of handling all of your family's dental needs. Call MI Smiles Dental Grand Haven at (616) 842-1188, MI Smiles Dental Cascade at (616) 974-4990, MI Smiles Comstock Park at (616) 784-3515, MI Smiles Grand Rapids at (616) 942-2870, or MI Smiles Ionia at (616) 527-2220 today, or schedule your appointment online.