What An Implant Is (And Is Not)

You may think that you know just what to make of a dental implant. However, if you start talking about what an implant is not, you may find that you’re feeling the slightest bit confused. You know, for instance, that it is a tooth replacement. However, do you know whether it is (or is not) a complete replacement, allowing you to restore your entire tooth? If you are realizing you may have a little more to learn in regard to this stable, long-lasting solution to missing teeth, then it is our Livonia, MI team’s pleasure to offer up the education you need!

An Implant Is A Post

A dental implant is a post. It is made up of titanium, a metal that is biocompatible. That means that it’s not going to bother your body’s tissues by causing any harm. Rather than being rejected, it will be accepted as an extension of your smile. This post is going to replace the part of your tooth that we refer to as your “roots,” which make up the portion that live within jawbone and gum tissue.

An Implant Is Not A Full Tooth Replacement

Now you realize that a dental implant is a post that replaces your missing roots. This means that on its own, it is not a complete tooth replacement. You may think to yourself, “But I always heard that implants were the only way to accomplish a complete replacement!” This is true. However, an implant is just one part of the equation. The post will support a restoration, which is the part of your tooth that exists above your gums!

An Implant Is Cost-Effective

A dental implant will require an investment, just like any prosthetic will require an investment. When you talk about the value of implants with us, we will explain that they are cost-effective. Why? Well, because they will probably last forever. The longer you wear them, the more cost-effective they become because you won’t have to spend any additional money to address this part of replacing your missing teeth.

An Implant Is Not A Short-Term Solution

As mentioned, dental implants can last forever. So, when you ask yourself if this is just like selecting a denture or bridge that is traditionally placed, the answer is no! Implants are a very long-term solution.

See Us For Implant Help When You Are Ready

When you think you are ready to move ahead with solutions for missing teeth, talk with us during a visit about dental implants. James Stewart, DDS, and our team serve patients from Livonia, MI, as well as Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Garden City, Westland, Redford, and the surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.