Tooth loss can happen because of facial trauma, untreated periodontal disease, or simple dental neglect. No matter the cause of your tooth loss, we advise you to seek a replacement option as soon as possible to restore your full dental function and aesthetics.

Dental implants often represent the best option for replacing missing teeth. Our practice is pleased to provide this gold standard for tooth replacement to patients throughout the Mason City, IA community.

Why are Dental Implants the Preferred Method of Tooth Replacement?

There are several reasons why our doctors consider dental implants to be the standard of care for tooth replacement.

  • Implants are the only tooth replacement option that can prevent jawbone degradation.
  • Implants are also the only tooth replacement option that does not require healthy, adjacent teeth to be shaved down or extracted.
  • Dental implants have the best long-term success rate of any tooth-replacement option.
  • With the right oral hygiene and care, dental implants can potentially last for the rest of your life.

Benefits of Dental Implants

For patients who have experienced tooth loss, dental implants provide several benefits:

Designed to Last a Lifetime

Dental implants boast a long-term success rate of more than 95 percent, and this is a far higher rate of success than what you find with bridges, dentures, and other tooth replacement options. By brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can usually keep your implants perfectly healthy for the rest of your life.

Preserves Bone and Facial Structures

Your jawbone requires regular stimulation from the tooth root. When you lose that root, the jawbone can begin to atrophy, potentially causing unwanted changes to the appearance of your face. Dental implants stimulate the jaw, promoting healthy bone growth and preventing unwelcome facial changes.

A Healthier Smile

With other methods of tooth replacement, it may be necessary to shave down healthy teeth or have healthy teeth removed to create space for a dental prosthesis. Dental implants do not require any of your healthy teeth to be altered.

Natural Appearance

Once you have implants in place, your dentist will custom tailor your replacement teeth, which are made to look just like your naturally growing teeth. Dental implants allow you to maintain your natural, confident smile.

How Will My Surgeon Determine Whether I am a Candidate for Dental Implants?

To assess your eligibility for a safe and successful dental implant procedure, your doctor will evaluate your teeth and gums, review medical imaging, and ask some questions about your medical history. During this initial consultation, you can also ask any questions about the procedure, financial policies, and the types of sedation available.

Overall, the best candidates are in good health and have adequate jawbone to anchor their dental implants in place.

How are Dental Implants Placed and Restored?

Following the development of your treatment plan, your surgeon will advise you on any supportive surgeries you need before having dental implants placed. These procedures might include bone grafting or the extraction of non-viable teeth. Once your mouth has been prepared, your doctor will proceed with placement of your dental implants.

Implant Placement

Prior to surgery, we will provide sedation to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience. Your oral surgeon will then carefully place a small titanium post into your jawbone and leave it to heal in place.

Abutment Attachment

Once the implants are anchored and stable, your dentist will add the abutment. This connective piece is used to attach the implant itself to the replacement tooth.

Replacement Teeth

Your replacement teeth will be custom-made to look just like your natural ones. They will be placed by your regular dentist, who will also provide you with guidelines for maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

You’re in Good Hands with North Iowa Oral Surgery

Dental implants provide a lasting form of restoration for patients who have lost teeth. Learn more about getting dental implants in Mason City, IA by contacting North Iowa Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center at (641) 424-1656.