What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made from biocompatible materials such as titanium. We surgically place this post in the jawbone as a sturdy foundation for a replacement tooth. The implant integrates with the jawbone over time, providing a stable base for a crown, bridge, or denture that mimics the look and function of natural teeth.

Implants are highly durable and can last for decades with proper care. They offer benefits beyond aesthetics, helping prevent bone loss and maintain the structural integrity of your jaw and surrounding teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants in Mishawaka

Dental implants offer numerous advantages over tooth replacement options like traditional dentures and bridges. Some of the key benefits include:

• Natural Appearance: Dental implants blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, creating a beautiful and natural smile.
• Improved Function: With dental implants, you can chew and speak confidently, as they function like natural teeth.
• Bone Preservation: Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on top of the gums, implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone deterioration that can occur when teeth are missing.
• Longevity: Dental implants can last many years, providing a long-term solution for missing teeth.
• Enhanced Comfort: Because they securely anchor in the jawbone, dental implants eliminate the discomfort and inconvenience often associated with removable dentures.

The Dental Implant Process

The process of getting dental implants in Mishawaka at Twin Branch Dental is personalized for each patient but typically involves several steps to ensure optimal outcomes:

1. Consultation and Evaluation: During your initial consultation, Dr. Hewlett or Dr. Zaremba will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if you’re a candidate for dental implants. We may use X-rays or 3D imaging to assess your bone structure and plan your treatment.
2. Implant Placement: If you are a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is the surgical placement of the implant post into your jawbone. This procedure utilizes local anesthesia, and we also offer sedation options to ensure your comfort.
3. Healing and Integration: After placing the implant, you will go through a healing period of several months for the post to integrate fully with the jawbone in an osseointegration process. During this time, the bone fuses with the implant, creating a strong foundation for the replacement tooth.
4. Restoration: Once the implant fully integrates, we create and attach a custom crown, bridge, or denture. This restoration matches your natural teeth’ color, shape, and size, ensuring a perfect fit and natural appearance.

Dental Implant-Supported Dentures

For patients missing several teeth or requiring full-mouth restoration, implant-supported dentures in Mishawaka are an excellent alternative to traditional dentures. This approach uses strategically placed implants to provide a secure and stable foundation for a denture that “clicks” into place. Unlike conventional dentures, implant-supported dentures don’t slip or move, offering greater comfort and confidence while eating and speaking.

One added benefit of this type of denture is eliminating the palate portion of upper dentures, improving comfort and taste perception. With implant-supported dentures, you can enjoy a more natural experience that closely mimics the feel of natural teeth.

Here are some additional benefits of our implant supported dentures:

• Treatments are completed in-house, with no outside referrals in most cases.
• 2-week timeline, from initial consultation appointment to treatment day.
• You never have to go without teeth! Leave the day of treatment with your new smile!
• Implant-supported to keep your dentures securely in place, snap-in design.
• Oral, conscious sedation is available.
• One flat cost for all treatments.

Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

Sometimes, patients may require a bone graft before implant placement. If a tooth has been missing for a long time or has significant bone loss, there may not be enough healthy bone to support an implant. A bone graft procedure involves adding material to the affected area to rebuild and strengthen the jawbone.

At Twin Branch Dental, we often perform bone grafting when we extract a damaged tooth. After healing, we can place dental implants, ensuring a strong and stable foundation for long-lasting results.

Why Choose Twin Branch Dental for Dental Implants in Mishawaka?

At Twin Branch Dental, we provide personalized, high-quality care for each patient. Our state-of-the-art technology, combined with the expertise of Dr. Mike Hewlett and Dr. Andrew Zaremba, allows us to deliver precise, comfortable dental implant procedures that restore both function and aesthetics.

We understand that every patient’s needs are unique, so we take the time to create customized treatment plans tailored to your specific goals. Whether you need a single tooth replaced or are considering full-mouth restoration, we will help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Get High-Quality Dental Implants in Mishawaka

If you’re ready to restore your smile with dental implants, Twin Branch Dental in Mishawaka is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mike Hewlett or Dr. Andrew Zaremba and learn more about how dental implants can transform oral health and quality of life.