A Beautiful, Lasting Solution
If you want a tooth replacement that allows you to live without restrictions, dental implants could be the solution you’ve been looking for. We use natural-looking dental implants to restore any number of missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable full or partial dentures.
Explore our patient-friendly guide to learn more about dental implants and how they can restore the health and beauty to your smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a permanent, natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth from root to crown. They fuse into your jawbone for unmatched support and stability, providing you with the look and function of a natural tooth. With proper care, dental implants can last up to a lifetime and offer several benefits other tooth replacements can’t match, such as:
- Easy to maintain
- Secured to your jaw
- Prevents jawbone deterioration
- Improves ability to chew with ease
- Natural appearance and function
- Resistant to decay
The Dental Implant Process
The process of getting your beautiful, customized dental implants requires several appointments at our Louisville dental office. Your treatment will include a few simple steps:
- Initial Consultation ⎼ We’ll examine your teeth and jaw to determine how much bone, gum tissue, and spacing are available for successful implant placement. This is also a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
- Implant Placement ⎼ If dental implants are right for you, we can begin the process right away. We’ll surgically place the implant directly into your jaw, where it will heal and fuse itself into the bone. The healing process can take up to six months.
- Final Restoration ⎼ After the healing period, you’ll return to our Louisville office to finish the last step of your treatment. Our dental implant provider will securely attach your customized restoration to the implant fixture, providing unmatched stability and comfort.
Dental Implant Candidacy
Our valued patients in Louisville, Frankfort, and throughout Kentucky choose dental implants for a number of different reasons. Some of these include:
- Replace one or more missing teeth
- Enhance the appearance of your smile
- Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by shifting teeth
- Stimulate healthy bone growth
- Restore chewing, speech, and digestion
- Support a bridge or denture for added comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teeth can be replaced with dental implants?
You can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even a whole arch of missing teeth with dental implants. You don’t even need an implant for every missing tooth. For example, as few as four dental implants can be used to provide a full, permanent set of upper or lower teeth.
How long do dental implants last?
With the right care, our natural-looking dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. This means practicing good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Dr. Peters recommends using a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching your restoration. It’s also important to schedule bi-annual dental check-ups so we can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
How do I take care of my dental implants after the procedure?
During the first week after surgery, it’s crucial to follow all post-op instructions from Dr. Peters. These will include limiting your diet to soft foods, avoiding drinking alcohol or smoking, and rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after meals.
Once your implant has healed, you can care for it just like a natural tooth with daily brushing and flossing. Dr. Peters recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and nylon floss, while also avoiding brands of toothpaste that contain abrasive ingredients.
Are dental implants safe?
Dental implants have an overall success rate of 98%. As long as your surgery is performed by an experienced and qualified dentist like Dr. Peters, there’s no reason to worry. In fact, dental implants are the only tooth replacement that prevents your jawbone from shrinking, making them the safest option long-term.
Will insurance cover my dental implant procedure?
Most insurance providers designate dental implants as a cosmetic treatment and don’t cover them as a result. However, your insurance may pay for a portion of your total treatment cost, depending on the terms set by your provider. If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, we’ll be happy to help you maximize your benefits.
Learn How Dr. Peters Can Help
Whether you’re missing a single tooth or a full arch, dental implants are a long-lasting, effective solution to restore the beauty and function of your smile. To learn more, give us a call at (502) 442-7319 to reach our Louisville dental office or (502) 234-1569 for our Frankfort location.