Dental Implants

For residents of Lakewood, Ohio, who want to replace one or more missing teeth, dental implants are an outstanding option. Implant dentistry is an area of specialty for Niki Cochran, DDS, of CLE Smiles by Dr. Niki. During your one-on-one visit, Dr. Niki explains what to expect from this treatment. Begin by booking a visit online or by phone today.

Why is it so important to replace missing teeth?

Missing teeth can make it hard to feel confident about the appearance of your smile, but there are also serious health issues to consider. Because your natural teeth anchor directly into the underlying bone tissue, biting and chewing stimulate that bone. 

This stimulation is necessary for strong and healthy bones. Without it, your bone can begin to wear away in a process known as resorption. This weakens the connection between adjacent teeth and bone and can cause additional tooth loss. 

A gap in your smile can also limit your ability to enjoy certain foods. You can even find yourself changing your speech patterns to adapt to the missing teeth. 

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a permanent treatment for missing teeth. You can have individual implants to replace one tooth or a system like All-on-4®, which replaces an entire upper or lower span of teeth. 

Implants consist of a metal post that replaces the root portion of your tooth and an artificial crown that replaces the visible portion of your tooth. Some systems use a small connector called an abutment to attach root and crown. 

Systems like All-on-4 rely on four implanted metal posts to secure an entire arch of false teeth. They’re a great alternative to a full set of dentures and will never slip and slide as you speak or eat. 

What are the steps involved in getting dental implants?

The planning process is an essential part of the process. Advanced digital imaging gives Dr. Niki information about your teeth and bone tissue. Special software creates a personalized treatment plan, including determining the angle of the implant placement. 

On the day of your procedure, an injection of numbing medication keeps you comfortable from start to finish. Once you’re numb, Dr. Niki makes an incision in your gums to access the underlying bone. 

Using a small pilot hole, she places the metal post into your jawbone. She then closes your gums around the implanted posts, and a period of healing follows. 

After a few weeks, your bone tissue fuses to the implanted metal post. You then return to have the crown attached, which completes the restoration. 

To learn more about how dental implants can restore your smile, call CLE Smiles by Dr. Niki to book a consultation or schedule online in just a few clicks. 

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