Dental implants can offer patients with missing teeth a natural looking and functioning replacement option that will enable the best possible quality of life.
Louisville dentist Dr. Kim Westermann often recommends a dental implant or implant secured dentures for key benefits they offer patients:
- Secure and comfortable fit: dental implants are permanently anchored into the jaw bone with a tiny titanium screw which eliminates the need for daily maintenance and the possibility of slippage while eating and speaking
- Reduced bone loss: one of the side effects of tooth loss is a shrinkage of bone in the jaw where the root used to be. The titanium post of the dental implant functions like a tooth root and stimulates natural bone retention and growth.
- Lasting results: a dental implant can last a lifetime with proper dental care, looking and functioning like a natural tooth and allowing for normal dietary and social habits.
Patients with dental implants enjoy an over 95% success rate, significantly higher than what is reported by denture wearers. Although they carry a larger up front cost and commitment, most patients will save in the long run due to their durability and the lack of need for daily maintenance.
Dental Implants: What To Expect
The dental implant procedure is a multi step process that will begin with a consultation with Dr. Westermann to determine that they are the right solution for you.
Dr. Westermann will coordinate the surgical phase of treatment, including any necessary tooth extractions, with a local specialist who will implant the titanium post.
It typically takes 3 to 6 months for the implant to fully fuse with the jawbone. Patients return to Dr. Westermann’s office for the final restoration when she will attach your custom dental crown to the implanted post.
You can care for your implant as you would your natural tooth which includes daily brushing and flossing. During routine visits to our Louisville dentist office, Dr. Westermann and her staff will monitor your dental implant to ensure a lasting result.