Missing teeth can be a source of angst for anyone who experiences it prematurely. And sometimes, even despite our best efforts and intentions, our teeth just aren’t as strong as we wish them to be. But let’s face it—tooth loss can do far more than just impact your smile. It may cause anxiety and even depression. And who wants to flash those pearly whites for the camera or to help others feel at ease when your smile isn’t, well, whole?

This is where dental implants can come to your rescue. Dental implants are a long-lasting, permanent tooth replacement option. And when you get your dental implants from your dentist in St. Joseph, Michigan, we promise you will totally feel like smiling again.

What are dental implants?

We know you’re intrigued, so let’s get right to it. Just what are dental implants? Basically, they are medical devices that are implanted directly into your jaw. They are comprised of a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. As time goes on, the implant fuses with the bone, providing a sturdy base for a crown or bridge. This structure mimics the look and function of natural teeth.

Dental implants offer several advantages over other options, like dentures or bridges. They don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, which helps maintain the integrity of nearby teeth. Implants also stimulate bone growth in the jaw, helping to prevent bone loss. Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in place, offering stability and a more natural feel when eating or speaking. And the best news of all? Your dental implants can last your lifetime, boasting an impressive 90 to 95% success rate. 

Building Your Self-Confidence with Dental Implants 

So, just what do dental implants have to do with your self-confidence? This is an interesting question, and it all goes back to how you feel when you smile. You may have never really thought about this in the past, but your smile is what makes others feel welcome. It helps others to feel more comfortable in your presence. It can even make you more likeable to others.

And when you don’t smile, it can be off-putting, causing others to keep their distance. As this happens more and more, your confidence can start to erode. And it makes you question who you are and why others are no longer compelled to you. Yet interestingly enough, when you fall in love with your smile again and start flashing it at others, suddenly, people gravitate toward you again. Interesting, huh?

Let’s recap that a bit. Here are some of the ways that dental implants can help give your self-confidence a lift.

• Restoring a natural look and feel: Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They seamlessly blend with your other teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable in your smile. This restoration of a complete, natural appearance helps you feel more confident in social situations.
• Boosting self-esteem: With dental implants, you no longer have to worry about gaps in your smile or the discomfort of loose dentures. This newfound confidence can positively affect your self-image and the way others perceive you.
• Improving quality of life: This might seem like a stretch, but we promise it’s not. Implants allow you to eat, speak, and smile with ease. Feeling comfortable in these everyday activities can improve your overall happiness and well-being.

The Dental Implant Process 

Now let’s talk about just what goes into the dental implant process. Here’s what you can expect over the course of three to five months (possibly longer if you need a bone graft).

• Initial consultation and assessment: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, review X-rays, and discuss your goals to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants.
• Surgical placement of the implant: The dentist will surgically place a titanium post into your jawbone, which acts as a replacement root for the missing tooth.
• Healing period: Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with the jawbone, providing a stable foundation. During this time, a temporary crown may be placed.
• Placement of the permanent crown: Once healed, we attach a custom-made crown to the implant. This completes the restoration process and leaves you with a fully functional tooth.

Dental implants can replace missing teeth and help you turn that frown upside down.

Though getting a tooth implant or multiple implants from your Saint Joseph dentist might seem too good to be true, it’s not. The process is simple, and though it will take several months before you can truly reap all the benefits, most patients find it well worth the wait.

And we’ll make sure your dental implant procedure at your Saint Joseph dental clinic is as easy and stress-free as possible. We pull out all the stops when it comes to our restorative dentistry treatments. After all, it is our goal to help you love your smile and turn that frown upside down.

Request your dental implant consultation today at Berrien Dental.