Dental implants are permanent prosthetics that replace one or more missing teeth. Made from titanium, implant posts fuse with the bone in your jaw to create a stable foundation for replacement natural teeth. Implants also have the added benefit of preventing further bone loss in the jaw.
Dental Implants in Meeker, CO
If you’ve lost a tooth due to a sports injury, accident, oral health condition, or any other reason, our dentists at Grant Family Dentistry may recommend dental implants to restore your smile and give you back full oral function. Many patients who have received implants say they wish they’d gotten them sooner!
THE PROCEDURE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS
During the first phase of the dental implant procedure, your dentist will insert the artificial root replacement. These are made from titanium because this metal is compatible with your body’s tissues and bones. Once the implant is placed into the jawbone, it takes about four months for the bone to grow around the implant’s surface. This process is known as osseointegration. During this time, a temporary tooth replacement may be placed over the implant.
For the second phase, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth and use them to create a lifelike model of your teeth. This model is used to create a replacement tooth that will match your other teeth so that it blends in with your smile. A custom abutment is also designed to attach your new tooth to the implant.
Once the abutment is in place, during the third and final phase of the implant procedure, your new tooth is permanently attached. Your new tooth will look natural and blend in with the rest of your smile!
The Benefits of Dental Implants
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Patients who choose implants can enjoy a complete smile for life! If you’d like to know more about the benefits of dental implants, visit Grant Family Dentistry at 335 6th St, Meeker, CO 81641, or call (970) 450-5829.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last for decades when cared for properly. The implant becomes part of your jawbone, making it one of the most durable tooth replacement options. With good home care and routine visits, most implants remain stable for a lifetime.
Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients say the procedure is much easier than they expected. You’ll be completely numb during placement, and many people return to normal activities the next day. Any soreness afterward is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
How long does it take to get an implant from start to finish?
Most implant cases take 3–6 months, depending on healing and whether additional steps like bone grafting are needed. Some patients qualify for faster timelines, and we’ll outline your exact treatment plan at your consultation.
What is a bone graft and why might I need one?
A bone graft adds support to areas where the jawbone has thinned or shrunk. Not everyone needs one, but it helps create the stability an implant needs to last long-term. We’ll evaluate this with digital imaging to see if it’s necessary.
Are implants safe?
Yes. Dental implants have a long history of success and are considered one of the safest and most predictable dental procedures. We use high-quality materials and precise planning to ensure a stable, healthy outcome.
How do dental implants compare to bridges or dentures?
Implants look and function like natural teeth and help preserve your jawbone over time. Unlike dentures, they don’t shift or require adhesives. And unlike bridges, they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support.
What is the recovery like after getting an implant?
Most patients experience mild swelling or tenderness for a couple of days. You can usually return to normal activities within 24 hours, and we provide simple home-care instructions to help the area heal smoothly.
How much do dental implants cost?
Implant costs vary based on how many teeth are being replaced and whether additional procedures are needed. We’ll give you a clear breakdown during your consultation and review any financing options to make treatment affordable.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults qualify for implants. We’ll take digital imaging to make sure your jawbone is strong enough and review your medical history. Even if you’ve been told you’re not a candidate before, modern techniques have expanded options for many patients.
Can smokers get dental implants?
Smoking doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it can slow healing and increase risk of complications. If you smoke, we’ll discuss how to support a successful outcome and whether temporary adjustments are needed.
Do implants look natural?
Yes. The crown attached to your implant is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Most people cannot tell which tooth is the implant.
How do I care for my dental implant?
Implants are cared for just like natural teeth: brushing, flossing, and routine hygiene visits. Good home care helps protect the gum tissue around the implant and ensures long-term success.
Can a failed implant be replaced?
In most cases, yes. If an implant didn’t integrate properly or has been damaged over time, we can often replace it after evaluating the area and giving it time to heal.
