Of all the ways modern dentistry has to replace missing teeth, dental implants are by far the best. There is no tooth-replacement option that will give you a longer-lasting result. Implants also help preserve tooth-supporting bone that naturally deteriorates when a tooth is lost. Loss of bone is one of the major hidden consequences of losing teeth.
A dental implant most often takes the form of a small, screw-shaped titanium post that replaces the root-part of a missing tooth. The surgical procedure used to place an implant is actually quite minor and routine, requiring only local anesthesia in most cases. After a healing period, the implant is topped with a lifelike crown custom-made to match your existing natural teeth. Implants have a documented success rate of over 95%, which is significantly higher than any other tooth-replacement option.
During a minor surgical procedure, your dental implant is inserted directly into the jawbone in the space vacated by the missing tooth. It will then be left to heal for a period of months before the final crown is attached. During this healing period, the implant actually fuses to the bone surrounding it.
Replace One Tooth When you have one tooth missing, a single implant is inserted into the bone to replace the root part of that tooth; a crown then goes on top to simulate an actual tooth. This treatment choice has the highest success rate, making it the best long-term investment for replacing a single missing tooth. Even if the initial cost is slightly higher than other options, it is the most cost-effective solution over time. An implant will never decay or need root canal treatment, and feels just like the tooth that was there.
Replace Multiple Teeth When you have more than one tooth missing, implants provide an ideal replacement mechanism. You don't even need one implant for every missing tooth. Instead, implant teeth can act as supports for fixed bridgework. For example, if you are missing three teeth in a row, we can place two implants, one on either side of the gap, and a crown in between that has no implant underneath. That way, you won't need to use any of your remaining natural teeth as bridge supports, which could weaken them and make them more susceptible to decay.
Replace All Teeth Permanently Implants can support an entire arch of upper or lower replacement teeth that are fixed into the mouth and are never removed. Sometimes the new teeth can be supported by as few as 4 implants. It's comparable to the structure of a table, which only needs 4 legs to hold it up. In cases where jawbone density and volume have deteriorated, 5 or 6 implants might be needed to support a row of 10 to 12 teeth. Dental implant replacement teeth protect your jawbone, won't slip, and should last a lifetime.
Support Removable Dentures Implants can even make removable dentures more comfortable, effective and healthier to wear. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and put pressure on the underlying bone. This accelerates bone loss so that the jaw shrinks and the dentures slip, particularly on the bottom. But today dentists can attach a removable denture onto implants, transferring that pressure into the bone structure rather than the bone surface. This prevents the dentures from slipping while you eat and speak, and preserves the bone directly beneath them.
There are only two ways an implant can lose attachment to the bone and fail once it has successfully fused: poor oral hygiene or excessive biting forces. Poor oral hygiene and/or a lack of regular cleanings can lead to a destructive bacterial infection called peri-implantitis. Flossing and brushing your teeth on a daily basis, along with regular professional cleanings, can prevent this. Excessive biting forces can come from either a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, or an insufficient number of implants to handle the forces generated by your bite. You should receive the correct number of implants so this does not happen. And if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, a nightguard will be recommended to protect your implants. After all, implants are a long-term investment in your smile, your health and your well-being, so it's best to protect your investment.
Dental Implants Your Best Option For Replacing Teeth Dental implants have many advantages over older methods of tooth replacement like bridges and dentures from the way they function and feel to the way they look and last. Vigorous research has documented and confirmed that in the right situations, dental implant success rates are over 95%. It is no exaggeration to say that they have revolutionized dentistry. They may even change your life... Read Article
The Hidden Consequences of Losing Teeth For those missing even one tooth, an unsightly gap is actually the least significant problem. What's of far greater concern is the bone loss that inevitably follows tooth loss. Dental implants can preserve bone, improve function and enhance psychological well-being. Learn how implants serve both as anchors to support replacement teeth and preserve bone... Read Article
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 66 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestMary Reiber
2 years ago
My family and I have been going to Dr. Leverenz for as long as I have had teeth. I appreciate how caring they are with all their patients, not only the long standing ones like my family! I no longer dread going to the dentist, because I know I will be treated with respect and care by both Dr. Leverenx and his son, Dr. Leverenz! Thank you for being the best dentists!
Lonnetta Frye
2 years ago
I have had the pleasure of going to Dr. Leverenz for over six years now and I thank my co-worker for recommending him to me for it! I can truly say Dr. Leverenz (both father and son) plus his staff are totally amazing and very professional! I never thought that going to the dentist would ever be an awesome experience! Every time I go for any type of procedure the environment is like being with family!
Mary Murray
2 years ago
The finest of care, period! Super friendly and knowledgeable staff, always willing to help and attentively listen to concerns. This is a beautiful, caring center; kindness personified!
Linda Witt
2 years ago
Love the entire Team! They do great work in a professional and caring environment.
dale tatum
2 years ago
I had a crown done by Dr John, son. The injection to numb my tooth was as painless as could be. And overall the whole procedure was quick and really very comfortable.
Kymberly Andren
2 years ago
Dr. Leverenz and his staff are rockstars!! They deserve more than 5-stars!! My 6-year-old hasn't had positive experiences with prior dentists and we were extremely worried going into his appointment for a filling. Dr. Leverenz and his hygienist, Stacey blew my mind away! Step by step they described what they were going to do, showing us the tools and describing what they were used for. They were upbeat and encouraging the entire time! The filling was complete in no time with NO tears, our 1st dental work without tears and screaming and we left feeling on cloud 9! We're beyond grateful to Dr. Leverenz and his staff for the most positive dental experience our family has ever had!
Richard Cherry
2 years ago
Friendly Great Service Thank You All
Jan Bisson
2 years ago
Dental visits are always stressful for me, but this time not so much, was treated so well, care was taken to ease my nerves, the procedure was over before I knew it! I'm a happy gal!
Richard Boyak
2 years ago
I find John and son John always friendly and clear about options. I feel confident that I get only what is needed for over 20 years now.
Kasie Zeiter
2 years ago
Wonderful service. All of the employees are so kind and caring. Highly recommend!!
Paul Strachan
2 years ago
Incredible dentists and staff. They've been taking good care of my dental needs for decades. I look forward to my visits to Dr. Leverenz. I never feel like I'm just another patient. He has always employed the kindest people on his staff and it has been the very best family dental practice for all the years I've been going there.
Kris M
2 years ago
Love the staff and Dr's ! They are very knowledgeable and friendly. Most of all they do amazing work as my teeth have never looked and felt this healthy . Thank you for all you do !
Michelle Solomon
2 years ago
Always a great experience! Best dental office I've ever been to. I felt very safe too because of the infection control policies they follow. Wonderful doctor and staff. Kim is a terrific Hygenist. Very gentle and thorough. I highly recommend them.
mark rozycki
2 years ago
Friendly and professional people.
TERRANCE HILL
2 years ago
My experience was great from scheduling to cleaning and consultation explaining the process and next steps in my treatments clearly.
Linda Witt
3 years ago
Love the entire Team! They do great work in a professional and caring environment.
Paul Strachan
3 years ago
Incredible dentists and staff. They've been taking good care of my dental needs for decades. I look forward to my visits to Dr. Leverenz. I never feel like I'm just another patient. He has always employed the kindest people on his staff and it has been the very best family dental practice for all the years I've been going there.
Kymberly Andren
3 years ago
Dr. Leverenz and his staff are rockstars!! They deserve more than 5-stars!! My 6-year-old hasn't had positive experiences with prior dentists and we were extremely worried going into his appointment for a filling. Dr. Leverenz and his hygienist, Stacey blew my mind away! Step by step they described what they were going to do, showing us the tools and describing what they were used for. They were upbeat and encouraging the entire time! The filling was complete in no time with NO tears, our 1st dental work without tears and screaming and we left feeling on cloud 9! We're beyond grateful to Dr. Leverenz and his staff for the most positive dental experience our family has ever had!
Kasie Zeiter
3 years ago
Wonderful service. All of the employees are so kind and caring. Highly recommend!!
Michelle Solomon
3 years ago
Always a great experience! Best dental office I've ever been to. I felt very safe too because of the infection control policies they follow. Wonderful doctor and staff. Kim is a terrific Hygenist. Very gentle and thorough. I highly recommend them.
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