Unfortunately, there’s a lot of patients that come in that have broken tooth or they’re missing a tooth for various reasons and a dental implant is such an amazing tool that we as dentists can use to fill that space but also provide so much form and function back to the patient. Specifically, a dental implant is a superior option to maybe like a dental bridge if the patient has heard of that because we’re able to treat that individual space without affecting the adjacent teeth on either side of that space and a dental implant is a fairly painless procedure. It’s very similar.
I always try to describe it to patients as no more than what you’d experience with a filling in terms of the level of discomfort that you’d feel and the implant is an awesome, more permanent option than a bridge. We don’t have to shave down or address the adjacent teeth on either side of that space like we would with a bridge. We can just treat that individual space and that implant typically in most situations can last the patient a lifetime and that’s really a positive solution for a lot of patients.
They really like that the thought of being able to treat an area where they’ve been missing a tooth, maybe not being able to chew on that side and we can give them an option that is more permanent and it’s really something that patients get excited about and when I’m able to describe to them what an implant is and the benefits of it, patients really get excited because it’s something that gives them the ability to chew easier, the ability to talk easier and it’s something that patients really find as a huge benefit in terms of dental solution in our practice.
You’ll Find Many Implant Solutions to Restore Your Mouth Function
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed in your jaw to support your replacement teeth. They give you bite strength similar to your natural teeth and keep your jaw healthy. During a consultation, Dr. Menard will determine if you have enough jaw strength for implants. He’ll examine your mouth and take 3-D digital X-rays. Some patients may need a bone graft or other procedure to restore bone lost in their jaw.
Once you are ready to move forward, he uses a 3-D scanner to plan your implant placements. Sedation options are available, if you are nervous about treatment.
Depending on the number of teeth you need to replace, he may recommend:
- Implant-Supported Crown or Bridge – Replace a single tooth with an implant crown or several teeth in a row with an implant bridge.
- Implant Dentures – This modern technique uses five to six implants to secure an entire arch of teeth. Your palate stays exposed, so you can taste food better.
- Implant-Supported Dentures – We’ll secure your dentures to four to six implants, so they remain in place and you can have a stronger bite.
- Mini Dental Implants – If you don’t have enough bone structure for full-sized implants, mini implants are can be a good solution to keep your teeth in place.
- Same-Day Smile – You can leave our office with a complete set of teeth in just one appointment.
- Full-Mouth Reconstruction – For more complex reconstruction needs, Dr. Menard can create a plan that includes several treatments to repair your smile.
You can expect a one-of-a-kind experience by visiting us for dental implants in Moscow. We also serve Pullman, Lewiston, and the surrounding area. Call us today at 208-203-7663 to schedule your consultation! You can also request an appointment online.