Dental Implants at Joy Dentistry in Lewiston ME

Dental implants offer a natural-feeling way to rebuild your bite. At Joy Dentistry, we focus on precise planning and supportive care to ensure your treatment fits comfortably and lasts. With careful guidance and follow-up, our team uses trusted technology to help you achieve strong, reliable results.

---

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a strong, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. While many people only see the crown (the white tooth), the implant’s true strength lies beneath the gums.

An implant consists of three main parts:

• Post: Constructed from titanium, this serves as an artificial root for the tooth.
• Abutment: A connector that joins the post to the dental restoration.
• Crown: This is the tailored artificial tooth that rests on top.

The titanium post bonds with your jawbone, functioning like a natural root. This connection keeps the bone healthy and prevents the shrinkage that often occurs after tooth loss. Because they are fixed securely, implants do not move or slip, allowing you to chew, talk, and clean your mouth easily.

---

How Implants Help Protect Your Jaw and Oral Health?

When a tooth is missing, the jawbone loses support and weakens over time. Dental implants prevent this by stimulating the bone, keeping it firm and active. This helps maintain your facial structure and prevents the "sunken" look associated with long-term tooth loss.

Implants also:

• Keep nearby teeth from shifting into empty spaces.
• Support healthy chewing forces to strengthen the jaw.
• Reduce pressure on remaining natural teeth.

Since implants stand independently, they do not rely on neighboring teeth for support (unlike dental bridges), leaving your natural tooth structure untouched.

---

The Step-by-Step Dental Implant Process

1. Examination: Your dentist checks your bone, gums, and oral health using X-rays or 3D scans to ensure you are a good candidate.
2. Placement: The titanium post is placed into the jawbone. This area is numbed, so most patients report feeling pressure rather than pain.
3. Healing: The bone slowly grows around the implant. This bonding process creates the stability implants are known for and typically takes a few months.
4. Restoration: Once firmly in place, the abutment and a custom-made crown are attached. The crown is shaped and colored to match your natural teeth perfectly.

---

When Dental Implants Are the Right Choice for You

Dental implants are an excellent choice if you are missing one or more teeth and want a fixed, secure replacement. They are invaluable for patients who struggle with slipping dentures.

You may be a good candidate if:

• You want a long-lasting, secure solution.
• Your jawbone is healthy enough to support the implant (or can be improved with grafting).
• You prefer care that is similar to natural teeth.
• You want to eat everyday foods without worry.

Even if your bone is thin, you may still qualify. At Joy Dentistry, we offer a range of sizes and styles to meet your specific needs.

---

Modern Tools and Technology

Dental implant care has improved significantly thanks to new technology.

• 3D Imaging: Allows us to see the exact shape of your jawbone for accurate planning.
• Computer-Guided Surgery: Helps place the implant in the safest, strongest position.
• Modern Materials: Titanium posts bond smoothly with bone, while ceramic crowns resist wear and look natural.

These tools make treatment more predictable, comfortable, and often faster, reducing healing time and improving long-term success.

---

Caring for Your Dental Implants at Home

Implants are easy to care for but require daily attention. Unlike dentures, they stay in your mouth permanently, so brushing twice a day and flossing are essential.

Habits for long-term success:

• Brush gently around the implant crown and gumline.
• Floss daily to remove food and plaque.
• Avoid chewing hard items, such as ice or pens, to prevent chipping.
• Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated for gum health.

With consistent care and regular checkups, your implants can last for many years.

---

Schedule Your Implant Consultation Today!

Contact Joy Dentistry to learn if dental implants are right for you. Call (207) 782-0670 or visit our office.