Missing teeth can affect more than your smile—they influence your confidence, chewing ability, and long-term oral health. Many people in Connecticut are now choosing dental implants, a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for replacing teeth. If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to understand how they work and why they’re considered the gold standard of modern dentistry.
At Collins Road Family Dental, patients often ask what makes implants so strong, how the procedure works, and whether they are a safe long-term choice. This complete guide explains the entire process so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a medical-grade titanium screw that is placed in your jawbone to mimic the root of your tooth. Implants can support crowns, bridges, or a denture. Unlike traditional dentures, implants actually fuse with your bone over time, creating a secure and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
Dental implants look, feel, and function similar to natural teeth—making them one of the most successful dental treatments available today.
How Do Dental Implants Work? Step-by-Step Process
1. Initial Examination and Planning
- The process begins with a full dental evaluation. Your dentist checks your oral health, jawbone density, and gum health using X-rays.
- This step ensures that your jaw can properly support the implant.
- If you choose dental implants, Collins Road Family Dental will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your treatment goals.
- Implant Placement
- The implant is carefully placed into the jawbone.
- This implant acts like a natural tooth root.
- Titanium is biocompatible, your body will surround the implant with bone.
- Most patients experience very little discomfort during or after the procedure.
- Osseointegration – The Healing Phase
- Osseointegration is a natural process where your jawbone grows around the implant, locking it firmly in place.
- This phase typically takes 3–6 months, depending on healing speed.
- This is the step that truly sets implants apart from other tooth-replacement options—once fused, implants become as strong as natural teeth.
- Impression
- After your implant has healed, an impression is taken and sent to the lab to fabricate a custom abutment and crown. The abutment is the post that sticks out of your gums and holds the new crown.
- Placing the Custom Abutment & Crown
- The patient returns for the placement of the custom abutment and custom crown. The crown is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth.
- Once complete, your new tooth functions similar to a real one—allowing you to eat, smile, and speak confidently.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Getting dental implants comes with several long-term advantages:
Natural Appearance: Implants can blend seamlessly with your smile.
Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, implants can last 20+ years.
Improved Chewing and Speaking: No slipping, discomfort, or dietary restrictions.
Prevents Bone Loss: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the shrinkage that occurs after tooth loss.
No Damage to Other Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants do not require shaving down neighboring teeth.
Boosts Confidence: Your smile looks complete and natural again.
Types of Dental Implants
Depending on your smile goals, your dentist may recommend:
- Single-Tooth Implant: Ideal for one missing tooth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: Used when multiple adjacent teeth are missing.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Offers more stability and comfort than traditional dentures.
Discuss these options with your provider when exploring dental implants at Collins Road Family Dental in Bristol, CT.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults are good candidates, but your dentist will evaluate:
- Jawbone density
- Gum health
- Overall oral hygiene
- Medical history
- Lifestyle habits such as smoking
Even if you were told you don’t have enough bone, modern dentistry offers solutions such as bone grafting and sinus lifts.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
One of the biggest reasons patients choose implants is their durability. With good oral care—including daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups—implants can last more many years.
Why Choose Collins Road Family Dental for Dental Implants in Bristol, CT?
Choosing the right dental practice is essential.
At Collins Road Family Dental, patients benefit from:
- Personalized treatment planning
- Advanced digital imaging
- High-quality materials
- Experienced dental professionals
- Comfortable, stress-free environment
Their goal is to restore your smile with precision, comfort, and long-lasting results.
Caring for Dental Implants
Maintaining your implants is simple:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- Avoid smoking
- Visit your dentist for routine cleanings
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Avoid chewing very hard objects
Following these guidelines helps your implants remain strong and healthy for years.
Common Myths About Dental Implants
Myth 1: The procedure is painful
Most patients report minimal discomfort.
Myth 2: Implants look fake
Modern crowns can mimic natural teeth.
Myth 3: Implants are only for older adults
Anyone 18+ with healthy gums can be a candidate.
Myth 4: They take too long to heal
Healing time varies, but it is worth the permanent results.
FAQs –
- How long does the dental implant procedure take?
Implant placement typically takes less than an hour per implant, but full healing can take a few months, depending on your jawbone health.
- Are dental implants safe?
Yes. They are one of the most proven and successful dental treatments available, with a success rate above 95%.
- How much do dental implants cost in Bristol, CT?
Costs vary depending on the number of implants, bone grafting needs, and treatment plan needs.
- Do dental implants feel like real teeth?
Absolutely. Once healed, they look and function similar to natural teeth.
- Can smokers get dental implants?
Smoking can slow healing, but you may still qualify. Your dentist will advise the best approach.