When do I need a Dental Implant?

A question that often arises while treating or talking to cosmetic dentistry patients is, "When is a good time to start thinking about a dental implant?" Damaged or missing teeth can make you self-conscious when talking to others, smiling, or eating. Nowadays, however, dental implants can serve as replacement teeth that work great and look as natural as the real thing.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is an "artificial tooth root" surgically placed in your mouth to replace missing teeth with durable alternatives that look like natural ones. The first step involves installing the implant itself. After the gum has healed, a dental crown is attached to the end of the implant to replace the original tooth.

If you are missing teeth for whatever reason, your jawbone recedes. Unless tooth roots stimulate the bone, it continues to shrivel away. Bone loss is a painless and silent process, so you may think it's not happening to you. Nevertheless, dental implants are the best option for those with missing teeth to maintain their dental and overall health.

Common causes that require a dental implant

• Securing a denture or dental bridge results in a more comfortable experience

• Helping a patient restore a confident, healthy smile

• Resolving bite problems or joint pain caused by teeth shifting

• Avoiding adjacent teeth from moving into an area with missing teeth

Most dentists, including us, agree that healthy teeth are not just a luxury but a necessity. Teeth are among the first things we notice when looking at another person's face. A healthy smile will make you feel more confident about your appearance and personality - and when people are optimistic about themselves, everything changes. You feel more secure, have better interpersonal relationships, and can thrive in ways you may not have imagined.

Meza Dental Care is one of the only dental clinics in Costa Rica with an on-site dental laboratory, meaning crowns, bridges, and implants are fabricated with the best equipment. By paying attention to details, we can ensure that everything we create follows the highest standards and quality controls. Call us toll-free from the U.S. and Canada at 1-(877)-337-6392 to find out how we can help you attain the smile you have always dreamed of at a cost you can afford.