Dental Implants

Are you thinking about replacing your missing teeth but aren’t interested in the undependable removable dentures that won’t stay securely in place? 

Fortunately, you do have another option—dental implants.

If you want a reliable, long-term alternative to removable dentures, dental implants are the closest thing to a natural tooth available today. Implants function similarly to real teeth and also look, feel, and function in the same way. 

Our North Salt Lake dentist also appreciates the versatility of dental implants that he can use to replace a single tooth, multiple missing teeth, or a whole arch of missing teeth with implant dentures. 

Dental Implants: Unique Tooth Replacement

Only dental implants use a titanium post placed in your jaw and acts as a replacement tooth root. Replacing the lost tooth root is beneficial because it helps prevent jawbone loss that commonly accompanies tooth loss. 

Bone loss in your jaw is unhealthy because it can eliminate support for neighboring teeth and even lead to further tooth loss. Your jawbone also supports your facial features, and as it breaks down, your face takes on a sunken or aged look that detracts from your appearance. 

Steps for Getting a Dental Implant

Getting a dental implant is a multi-step process that takes place over several months.

Step 1: Dental Implant Evaluation

First, Dr. Bates will evaluate your smile to determine if you are a good dental implant candidate. This includes checking the bone levels in your jaw to make sure it is dense enough to support the implant and prosthetic tooth restoration. 

If you both decide that an implant is the right tooth replacement for you, the next step is to place the post in your jaw. 

Step 2: Placing Your Dental Implant

Dr. Batesplaces your implant in your jaw here at our comfortable North Salt Lake dental office. This is done under local anesthesia, and since there are no nerve endings in the bone, this is a much more comfortable procedure than most people think. 

The entire procedure takes about an hour, and if you feel anxious, we offer nitrous oxide or laughing gas to help you relax.

Step 3: Waiting for the Healing Process

With the implant securely placed in your jaw, the healing period begins. During this time, the biocompatible titanium post integrates with the jawbone around that surrounds it. 

This process is called osseointegration, and it takes several months to complete.  Be patient because, during this period, the implant posit is becoming part of your dental anatomy and can last a lifetime with proper care. 

Step 4: Dental Implant Restoration

Once the implant post heals in place, Dr. Bates attaches a piece to it called an abutment. The abutment connects your prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture to the implant to restore chewing function and complete your beautiful smile. 

Schedule a Dental Implant Appointment in North Salt Lake, UT

Dr. Bates is an experienced dental implant dentist in North Salt Lake, UT who would enjoy meeting with you to discuss your tooth replacement needs. Call our dental office to schedule an appointment and start the process of getting back your healthy, beautiful smile with dental implants.