If you have a loose or uncomfortable denture or if you’ve recently lost a permanent tooth, you’re not alone. Missing teeth can affect the way you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. But the good news is that help is available. At our dental office in Bethlehem, PA, you can receive high-quality dental implants that look, feel, and work just like natural teeth.
Bethlehem restorative dentist Dr. Damien Ren helps patients regain their confidence with this advanced tooth replacement option. Dental implants are a strong, stable, and long-lasting restorative dentistry service. Teeth implants can give you back the ability to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that serve as replacement tooth roots. They are placed into your jawbone during a simple in-office procedure. These strong metal roots bond with your natural bone over time, creating a sturdy foundation for artificial teeth called crowns.
Think of dental implants as anchors that hold your new teeth firmly in place. Unlike dentures that might slip or bridges that rely on neighboring teeth for support, implants stand on their own. They look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth!
When you lose a tooth, the bone that once supported it begins to shrink. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that actually stimulates bone growth, helping to maintain your facial structure and prevent that sunken appearance that often comes with missing teeth. As the gold standard in restorative dentistry, dental implants offer the most comprehensive solution for replacing missing teeth.
Bethlehem dentist Dr. Ren has advanced training and experience in the placement of all types of implants. He helps patients restore their smiles and their quality of life with this permanent, stable, and natural tooth replacement solution.
Types of Dental Implants
We offer different types of dental implants in Bethlehem, PA. The best type of implant restoration for you depends on your health, budget, and number of missing teeth. Dr. Ren will review your tooth replacement options after a thorough exam.
Implants for Single Missing Teeth
We have multiple options if you knocked out a tooth or only have one tooth missing:
Implant-Supported Crown
If you’re missing just one tooth, a single tooth implant can support a crown that replaces it. A surgeon places an implant post to replace the missing tooth root. Then, a custom-made crown is attached. The result is a replacement tooth that blends perfectly with your natural smile.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges can be an excellent solution when you’re missing several teeth in a row. We don’t need to grind down healthy teeth to support an implant bridge. Instead, implants serve as sturdy supports for your new teeth.
Implants for Multiple Missing Teeth
If you’re missing most or all of your teeth, full-mouth implant solutions can give you a stable and comfortable smile:
Implant-Supported Dentures
These dentures snap onto dental implants placed in your jawbone. They stay in place better than regular dentures. Implant dentures make it easier to talk and eat without worry.
All-on-4 Implants
This advanced treatment uses just four implants to support a full arch of teeth. Patients can often get their new teeth on the same day as the implant surgery. All-on-4 is a great option for people who want a fast and strong full-mouth replacement.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini implants are smaller than traditional implants and can be used when you don’t have enough jawbone for regular ones. The procedure is quicker and less invasive. Many patients find that mini implants are often more affordable.
The Benefits of Dental Implants in Bethlehem, PA
Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. They are strong, long-lasting, and look just like your natural teeth. At DICE Dental in Bethlehem, PA, Dr. Ren offers dental implants to help patients feel confident and comfortable with their smiles. The top benefits of dental implants include:
Look Natural
Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your real teeth. The crown (the part that shows when you smile) is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference between your implant and your natural teeth!
Help You Bite and Chew
Missing teeth can make it hard to enjoy your favorite foods. Dental implants are anchored into your jawbone, giving them strong support like a real tooth root. This means you can eat crunchy, chewy, or tough foods without worry.
Improve Speech
When you lose teeth, it can affect how you speak. Some people with dentures may find that they slip or move, making it hard to pronounce certain words. Dental implants stay in place, which helps you speak clearly and confidently.
Last for Years
Dental implants are made from strong materials like titanium and ceramic. With good care, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, implants can last many years. They’re a smart and long-term solution for tooth loss.
What to Expect During the Dental Implant Process
The journey to your new smile happens in several steps. While it may take months to a year to get implants, many patients find the results worth it:
Initial Consultation
Your implant journey begins with a visit to our office. Dr. Ren will first examine your teeth, gums, and jaw. He’ll then take digital X-rays or scans to see where you’re missing teeth and whether you have enough healthy jawbone for implants.
Dr. Ren will also talk with you about your goals and answer all your questions. After this exam, he will create a custom treatment plan just for you, explaining your options so you know what to expect.
Preparation
Before placing the implants, you may need some extra care to get your mouth ready. Dr. Ren may recommend a tooth extraction if you have a damaged or infected tooth.
If you don’t have enough jawbone to support the implant posts, Dr. Ren will recommend bone grafting. Not everyone needs these steps, but if you do, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and prepared.
Implant Placement
Once you’re ready for treatment, Dr. Ren will schedule your implant surgery. First, the oral surgeon will numb the treated area. Then he or she will place the implant posts into your jawbone. Most patients report less discomfort than expected, comparing it to a tooth extraction.
Healing Period
Over the next 3-6 months, your implants will bond with your bone in a process called osseointegration. This is what gives implants their incredible stability. During this time, Dr. Ren will provide a temporary restoration.
Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, small connectors called abutments are attached to your implants. These connect your implants to your new teeth. It will take more time for your gums to heal before it’s time for your final restoration.
Dr. Ren will also take dental impressions to create your final restoration. He works with a local dental lab to create your crown, bridge, or denture.
Final Restoration
You’ll return to DICE Dental once you’re fully healed. Dr. Ren will attach your restoration to the implant posts. He’ll make adjustments if needed so it looks great and feels comfortable.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
The good news is that caring for dental implants is very similar to caring for natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily, being gentle around the implant area
- Visit Dice Dental regularly for checkups
- Avoid chewing hard or crunchy items like ice or hard candy
With proper care, your dental implants can provide you with decades of comfortable, confident smiling.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read answers to common questions about dental implants in Bethlehem, PA:
Do you do teeth in one day?
In some cases, we can offer an “immediate load,” or teeth-in-a-day like you see on TV. But you must have enough bone and no active infection in order to be a candidate. We’re happy to review all possible options for treatment with you when you visit us for a complimentary consult.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most patients are surprised that the dental implant process is comfortable. The procedure is usually done with local anesthesia, which means the area is numbed so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery.
After the procedure, it’s normal to feel some soreness or swelling. However, most people say the discomfort is mild and only lasts a few days. You can usually manage it with over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Dr. Ren will also give you instructions to help you heal and feel better quickly.
Will my dental implants last forever?
Most of our patients are pleasantly surprised by the relatively pain-free process of getting a dental implant. It’s a much quicker and streamlined process than most patients ever imagined.
Are you a candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with missing teeth are good candidates for dental implants. The main requirements are:
- Healthy gums
- Adequate bone to support the implants (or willingness to undergo bone grafting)
- Good overall health
- Commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
Age is rarely a limiting factor.
Schedule an Implant Consultation
If you’re tired of hiding your smile or struggling with uncomfortable dentures, ask us about dental implants. Request an appointment with Bethlehem dentist Dr. Ren online. You can also call DICE Dental at 484-917-2734. We serve patients in Allentown, Easton, and the surrounding areas.