Dental Implants: The Permanent Solution For Missing Teeth
Losing a tooth doesn’t just affect how you look—it can change how you eat, speak, and even how you feel about yourself. At Gentle Dental, we offer dental implants in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME as a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth and restore your full smile. Whether you’ve lost one tooth or several, implants are the next best thing to having your real teeth back.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth that are used to replace natural teeth that have damage or are missing. Implants feel and function just like natural teeth and have become one of the most popular restorative dentistry solutions. Dental Implants have three main components: a titanium screw that will fuse to your living bone cells over time, an abutment that acts as a connecting piece, and a dental crown that looks and feels just like a real tooth. Dental implants are a long-lasting, cost-effective solution for damaged or missing teeth!
In short, dental implants aren’t just a cosmetic fix. They provide structure, support, and strength where it matters most—below the surface.
The Difference Between Dental Implants, Crowns, and Veneers
Implants, crowns, and veneers are three solutions for fixing a person’s smile, but they all have their advantages for different reasons. Dental implants and crowns are generally used when there is wear, damage, or cracks in a tooth, whereas veneers are used for strictly cosmetic purposes. If you’re not sure which solution is right for you, our dentists are always here to help you develop the best treatment plan!
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Let’s face it: missing teeth can lead to more than just an incomplete smile. Without a tooth root to stimulate the jawbone, the bone can begin to deteriorate over time. That can cause your facial shape to change and make future dental problems more likely.
Here’s why dental implants are one of the best solutions available:
- Look and feel natural
- Restore full chewing power
- Prevent bone loss in the jaw
- Support adjacent teeth and prevent shifting
- Last for decades with proper care
- No slipping, clicking, or adhesives like dentures
Once placed, you’ll be able to eat, talk, and smile with complete confidence.
Types of Dental Implant Solutions We Offer
Everyone’s situation is different. That’s why we offer a range of dental implant options tailored to your specific needs.
Single-Tooth Implants
Perfect for replacing one missing tooth without affecting neighboring teeth. It’s a standalone restoration that feels just like the real thing.Implant-Supported Bridges
If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge fills the gap without needing a separate implant for every tooth.Full-Arch Implants / Implant Dentures
For patients missing all upper or lower teeth, a full set of teeth can be anchored securely to just a few implants. These can be fixed or removable depending on your preferences.
We’ll walk you through your options and help you find the right fit for your smile and lifestyle.
What To Expect During the Dental Implant Process
In comparison to some other restorative dentistry procedures, dental implants are relatively quick and easy. Dental implants can be used to replace one or many teeth, depending on the extent of damage or decay in a person’s mouth. The process of getting implants can vary in time and amount of appointments depending on the number of teeth that are being replaced with implants. However, in many cases, it can be done in as little as one day! Just like with every procedure we perform at Gentle Dental, our dentists will speak with you about your options and give the recommendation that we believe is right for you! If a dental implant is decided on, our dentists will perform a complete oral evaluation before extracting the damaged tooth that needs to be replaced. Next, the three components of the dental implant will be attached to your mouth. Dental implant procedures generally have a speedy recovery time, so you don’t need to worry about being in pain for days on end. Our dental implants are designed to last upwards of 30 years!
Getting dental implants takes time, but the results are well worth it. Here’s a quick breakdown of what the process typically looks like:
- Consultation & Evaluation
We start with a full exam, 3D imaging, and a conversation about your goals. We’ll assess your jawbone health and determine whether implants are the right solution. - Implant Placement
The titanium post is placed in your jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Most patients report only mild discomfort afterward, similar to having a tooth extracted. - Healing & Integration
Over the next few months, the implant fuses with your bone. During this time, we may place a temporary restoration if needed. - Final Restoration
Once healing is complete, we place your permanent crown, bridge, or denture. It’s custom-designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and fit.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Have healthy gums and an adequate jawbone
- Don’t want to deal with removable dentures
- Are in overall good health and don’t smoke
If you’ve experienced bone loss, don’t worry—bone grafting can often make implants possible even when jawbone volume is low.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or more, and many last a lifetime. The key is keeping your gums healthy and staying on top of your regular dental checkups.
How To Care For Your Dental Implant
Dental implants are low maintenance, but not no maintenance. Just treat them like your natural teeth:
- Brush and floss daily
- Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Avoid chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens)
- See your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams
We’ll give you a personalized care plan to make sure your implant stays strong and functional for years to come.
Schedule Your Implant Consultation Today
Ready to stop hiding your smile or struggling with gaps? At Gentle Dental, we’re here to help you regain full confidence in your smile. If you have any questions about dental implants or any other dental procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us! We’re here to provide all of southern Maine with the very best in dentistry for adults and children alike! Call today to schedule a dental implant consultation in Topsham ME or Biddeford ME—let’s rebuild your bite and restore what you’ve been missing.
