Missing a tooth feels like more than just a gap in your smile. It can also impact your confidence, affect your ability to speak and chew, and potentially weaken your jawbone. Fortunately, dental implants offer an effective solution that restores your smile and oral health. Unlike traditional tooth replacement options, like dentures and bridges, implants are embedded into the jaw for stability, strength, and a natural feel. With the support and unmatched care at Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, you can start your journey to a healthy, radiant smile with dental implant surgery.

Our experienced team believes that missing teeth shouldn’t hold you back from smiling with confidence. Dental implants provide a strong, natural-looking solution that restores function and appearance, helping you eat, speak, and live comfortably. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you feel informed and supported from consultation to final restoration. With expert care and a personalized approach, we make it easier than ever to regain a complete, healthy smile through implant dentistry.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

If you are missing teeth, you’re not alone. An estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. Dental implants are an effective and more comfortable solution for tooth replacement, but they may not be for everyone. This treatment uses small metal posts to replace the tooth root in the jawbone and restorations, like crowns, bridges, and artificial teeth, to fill in the gap in your smile.

To determine if this treatment is right for you, we conduct a detailed examination to determine if you have the qualities of a good dental implant candidate, which includes the following:

Healthy Gums

Gums are a foundation for your natural teeth, keeping them stable and safe from bacteria and food particles. Therefore, healthy gums are crucial for dental implant healing and ensuring they last a lifetime. If you have gum disease, we can help you determine the treatment you need before getting dental implants and other possible solutions to restore your smile.

Sufficient Jawbone Density

Dental implant placement requires embedding the implant into the jawbone, so having enough tissue to support the metal posts is essential for treatment success. If you have bone loss in your jaw, you may get bone grafting to increase volume in the necessary areas and make you a better candidate for dental implant therapy. This additional step can promote bone growth and improve implant stability.

Non-Smoker

Smoking and vaping can hinder the healing process by reducing blood flow to the gums, increasing the risk of dental implant surgery failure and infection.

Good Oral Hygiene

To ensure your dental implants last as long as possible, you should practice good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and getting regular dental cleanings. Our trusted team provides clear instructions and guidance on caring for your dental implants so you can enjoy a strong, confident smile for a lifetime.

What to Expect During the Dental Implant Procedure

We understand getting a dental implant procedure can be daunting, so we work with you from the beginning to ease your worries and keep you informed. Every patient is different, so we take a personalized approach and tailor your treatment to your unique needs and smile goals. However, you can expect the following general steps during your dental implant surgery:

Consultation: Before the implant surgery, we discuss your concerns, take X-rays and photos, and discuss your treatment options, which may include implants if you’re eligible.
Anesthesia: If you qualify for dental implants, we begin the dental implant procedure by administering anesthesia to ensure a pain-free, smooth experience.
Incision: Once you feel comfortable, we make a small incision in your gums where the implant site will be to access the jawbone.
Jaw preparation: We create an opening using specialized tools to prepare your jaw for the dental implant placement.
Implant insertion: When the opening is wide enough for the implant, we gently place it into the jaw and close the incision with stitches.
Healing: Before placing your final restoration, the dental implants must heal and fully fuse to the jawbone, which takes a few months and supports bone growth.
Final restoration: When your dental implants have healed, we attach a small connector piece, called an abutment, and your final custom-made restoration that looks and feels like natural teeth.

With our comprehensive services, our caring professionals support you before, during, and after your surgical procedures, putting your health, comfort, and safety first every step of the way. No matter how many missing teeth you need to replace, we can give you results that allow your personality and confidence to shine.

5 Benefits of Getting Dental Implants at Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

At Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand what your smile means and what a balanced, strong smile can do for your self-esteem. If you have missing teeth, our top-notch dental implant services may be the key to restoring your smile’s appearance and functionality. Our gentle care combined with cutting-edge technology provides patients with the following benefits:

Enhanced appearance: Dental implants can replace one, multiple, or all your artificial teeth in a natural-looking way so you can smile confidently, make more social connections, and fully express yourself.
Improved functionality: Missing teeth can make it challenging to eat and speak. Dental implants can help make these daily activities easier.
Long-lasting results: With proper hygiene and regular dental visits, your dental implants can last a lifetime.
Jawbone preservation: Tooth roots stimulate the jawbone, keeping it healthy and strong. Without this stimulation, the jawbone can weaken and deteriorate over time. Because dental implants are inserted into the jawbone, they replace missing teeth while stimulating the jaw, preserving its health.
Stability for dentures: If you have dentures, you know they can be wobbly and unstable. Dental implants provide secure anchors for artificial teeth, keeping them in place and feeling comfortable.

Ready to Transform Your Smile? Reach Out to Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Today

At Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re here to help you regain the smile and confidence you deserve. Dental implants provide a permanent solution for missing teeth, restoring appearance and functionality. Our team takes the time to understand your unique needs and offers personalized care throughout the entire process, from your initial consultation to the final result. With expert guidance, a compassionate approach, and advanced technology, we ensure your dental implant journey is as comfortable and seamless as possible.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile, we’re here to support you. Reach out to our team today to learn more about how dental implants can change your life. Call us at (910) 251-8174 or schedule an appointment through our contact form. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants

What are dental implants, and how do they compare to removable dentures?

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacement solutions that mimic the structure and function of natural teeth. Unlike removable dentures, which can slip or cause discomfort, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing stability and a natural feel. They also help preserve jawbone health by preventing bone loss, a common issue with missing teeth.

What happens during dental implant surgery?

Dental implant surgery involves several steps. First, an incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone. Then, a small hole is created, and the implant post is placed securely within the bone. After healing, which can take a few months, a custom-made artificial tooth is attached. This process restores both function and aesthetics, making implants a reliable long-term tooth replacement option.

Is tooth extraction necessary before getting dental implants?

In some cases, yes. If a damaged or severely decayed tooth is still in place, a tooth extraction may be needed before implant surgery. After extraction, the jawbone may require time to heal, or a bone graft may be necessary to ensure enough support for the implant. Your dentist will evaluate your specific needs during your consultation.

Are dental implants suitable for everyone?

While dental implants are an excellent option for many, not everyone is a candidate. Ideal candidates have healthy gums, sufficient jawbone density, and good oral hygiene habits. Heavy smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, or severe bone loss may affect implant success. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will determine whether implant surgery is right for you.

How long do dental implants last compared to other tooth replacement options?

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. Unlike removable dentures, which may need adjustments or replacements every few years, implants fuse with the jawbone, providing lasting stability. Regular dental visits, brushing, flossing, and avoiding habits like smoking help ensure their longevity.