Speak, Smile, and Chew Confidently With Dental Implants

Are you self-conscious about a missing tooth? If so, you aren’t alone. The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that nearly 120 million adults are missing at least one tooth. No matter which tooth is missing, its absence can cause problems. Missing teeth can cause low self-esteem (especially if a front tooth is missing) and difficulty chewing. Missing teeth can also make it harder to speak clearly. The problems can be compounded if you’re missing more than one tooth.

The good news is that you don't have to hide your smile forever. A dental implant can restore your tooth — and your confidence.

At Wedgewood Dental, Linda K. Westmoreland, DDS and our team know how dental implants can help you speak, smile, and chew confidently.

Are you considering dental implants? Here’s what you need to know.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth that replaces your missing tooth. Like a bridge or dentures, the implant restores the form and function of your mouth. You’ll be able to chew and speak clearly, and you won’t be bothered by a gap any longer.

Unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants are permanently implanted into your jaw. A titanium post fuses with your jaw bone (in a process called osseointegration) that creates a strong foundation for the prosthetic tooth.

The second piece, called the abutment, connects the post to the crown. The crown is the part of the implant that resembles the tooth. 

Be proud of your smile

Dental implants restore your confidence, and you’ll be happy to flash your smile. Dental implants are aesthetically pleasing. No one will be able to tell that you have an implant. Not only does an implant look beautiful, it’s also easy to keep it that way. Implants are easy to take care of and are stain-resistant. With a proper oral care routine, you can enjoy your implant for years and years to come.

Speak clearly 

Missing teeth can impact your ability to speak clearly. Dentures can also create speech problems, especially if they are ill-fitting and slide around in your mouth. One of the benefits of dental implants is that they won’t negatively impact your speech. In fact, they’ll help support proper speech by replacing your missing tooth.

Eat more comfortably 

Your teeth are designed to help you eat, and without them, the task can become quite difficult. For example, if you’re missing a molar, you might have a hard time grinding food. Dental implants function the same way as the tooth they are designed to replace. That means a prosthetic molar can help you chew, an implanted anterior tooth can help you bite, and an implanted incisor can help you tear.

Get the smile you want with dental implants

If you’re tired of hiding a gap in your teeth, or tired of struggling with an old bridge, it’s time to consider a dental implant. Not only will an implant restore the beauty and function of your mouth, but it will also help prevent jaw bone atrophy (bone loss).

We are conveniently located in Rolla and Salem, Missouri. Call the location of your choice to schedule an appointment. You can also request an appointment via our online booking system.