If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants can provide a long-lasting way to restore your smile, chewing function, and confidence. At Thanksgiving Point Dental, Dr. Armstrong, Dr. Clark, and Dr. Stringham provide clear guidance and careful treatment planning so you can understand your options and know what to expect.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small post placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant has healed and integrated with the bone, it can support a crown, bridge, or denture designed to restore both function and appearance.
Dental implants are one of several restorative treatment options available to replace or rebuild teeth. Depending on your goals, your treatment plan may also include services related to cosmetic dentistry or other dental procedures.
How Does the Dental Implant Process Work?
Dental implant treatment typically happens in stages. The exact timeline depends on your oral health, bone structure, healing, and the type of restoration being placed.
The process may include:
- A consultation, exam, and diagnostic imaging
- Placement of the dental implant by your dentist or specialist
- A healing period that allows the implant to integrate with the jawbone
- Placement of the final crown, bridge, or denture
Throughout treatment, our team explains the risks, benefits, and next steps so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Many people who are missing one or more teeth may be candidates for dental implants. Your dentist will evaluate your gums, jawbone, overall oral health, medical history, and other factors before recommending treatment.
Having insufficient bone does not necessarily rule out dental implants, but some patients may need additional treatment before implant placement. Certain health conditions, medications, smoking, and healing concerns may also affect treatment planning.
For younger patients, implant treatment generally depends on whether jaw growth is complete. Your dentist can determine whether implants are appropriate after a full evaluation.
The dentists at Thanksgiving Point Dental create individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s needs, oral health, and long-term goals. Our Lehi dental office is designed to provide a comfortable setting throughout the treatment process.
Five Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants can offer several advantages for patients replacing missing teeth.
- Improved chewing function: A stable implant-supported restoration can make it easier to eat a wider variety of foods.
- Protection for neighboring teeth: Unlike a traditional bridge, a single dental implant may replace a missing tooth without requiring healthy neighboring teeth to be reshaped.
- Support for the jawbone: Because an implant is placed in the jawbone, it can help stimulate the bone in the area where a tooth has been lost.
- Natural-looking results: Implant restorations can be designed to complement the shape, color, and function of your surrounding teeth.
- Long-term stability: With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, implants can provide a durable solution for tooth replacement.
The right treatment depends on your specific needs, so an exam is the best way to determine whether an implant or another restorative option is appropriate.
Common Questions About Dental Implants
How long does dental implant treatment take?
Dental implant treatment often takes several months because the implant needs time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before the final restoration is placed. The overall timeline can vary depending on your bone health, healing progress, and whether additional procedures are needed.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Local anesthesia is used during implant placement to help keep you comfortable. Some soreness, swelling, or tenderness can occur afterward as the area heals. Your dental team will explain what to expect and provide instructions for managing discomfort.
How do I care for a dental implant?
Dental implants require consistent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth regularly, clean around the implant as directed, and keep up with routine dental exams and professional cleanings. Contact your dentist if you notice pain, swelling, bleeding, or looseness around the implant.
Can dental implants fail?
Dental implants are designed to provide stable, long-term tooth replacement, but complications can occur. Healing problems, infection, smoking, oral hygiene, and other health factors may affect implant success. Regular checkups allow your dental team to monitor the implant and surrounding tissues.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are intended to be a long-term tooth replacement option. Their longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, gum health, bite forces, overall health, and regular professional care. The restoration attached to the implant may eventually need repair or replacement, even if the implant itself remains stable.
Can dental implants replace more than one missing tooth?
Yes. Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or support restorations that replace multiple teeth. Depending on your needs, implants may support a crown, bridge, or denture.
Will I need a bone graft before getting an implant?
Not every patient needs bone grafting. Your dentist will evaluate the amount and quality of bone in the treatment area using an exam and diagnostic imaging. If additional bone support is needed, your treatment plan may include a graft before or during implant placement.
What is the difference between a dental implant and a bridge?
A dental implant replaces a missing tooth by supporting a restoration from the jawbone. A traditional dental bridge generally uses neighboring teeth for support. The best option depends on the condition of your surrounding teeth, bone health, bite, and treatment goals.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of implant treatment varies based on the number of teeth being replaced, the type of restoration, and whether additional procedures are needed. Your dental team can review expected costs and treatment options after evaluating your specific needs.
Patient experiences from those who have received care at Thanksgiving Point Dental are included in our patient reviews.
Preparing for Your Dental Implant Consultation
Before your appointment, gather your medical history and a current list of medications. During your visit, your dental team may use X-rays or other imaging to evaluate your teeth, gums, and jawbone and determine whether implant treatment is appropriate.
You’ll also have an opportunity to discuss your goals, ask questions, and understand any recommended referrals, additional procedures, or laboratory work.
Thanksgiving Point Dental is located in Lehi, Utah, with directions to the practice available for patients planning their appointment. You can also contact Thanksgiving Point Dental with questions or to request a visit.
Restore Your Smile With Dental Implants in Lehi
Missing teeth can affect the way you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. Dental implants offer a stable tooth replacement option that can restore function while supporting a natural-looking result.
At Thanksgiving Point Dental, Dr. Armstrong, Dr. Clark, and Dr. Stringham take the time to evaluate your oral health, explain your treatment options, and develop a plan based on your individual needs.
If you’re considering dental implants in Lehi, schedule an appointment with Thanksgiving Point Dental to discuss whether implant treatment is right for you.