What Is a Dental Implant, and How Can It Work as a Retainer?
Dental implants are small titanium rods that surgeons place underneath the gum line and into the bone, where they act as the tooth’s roots. These rods form the base and strength of the new prosthetic tooth. The rod fuses naturally with the bone over roughly three to six months, creating a secure implant that serves as a solid base for crowns once healing completes. Implants can also act as retainers for dentures and partials if you struggle with them falling or slipping out of place.
Beyond single-tooth replacement, implants support several restorative options. Below are three key services Webster Family Dental provides:
Dental Implant Retainers: Implant-supported retainers anchor dentures or partials firmly in place, eliminating the frustration of slipping prosthetics. This option gives patients renewed confidence while eating, speaking, and smiling every day.
Periodontal Maintenance: Healthy gums form the foundation for successful implant placement and long-term retention. Our periodontal maintenance program helps patients protect the tissue and bone surrounding their implants so results last for years to come.
Emergency Dentistry: Unexpected dental issues don’t wait for a convenient moment, and neither do we. Our emergency dentistry services address urgent concerns — including complications with existing implants — quickly and compassionately.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Dental Implants in Webster Groves?
A thorough examination, a series of X-rays, and a CT scan will take place prior to implant surgery. Some of the best candidates for implants include:
- Those who are missing teeth but do not want a fixed bridge placed
- Patients who wear dentures or partials and want a way to keep the prosthetic in place permanently
- Patients who do not suffer from bone loss, as this condition can cause implant failure
During your consultation, Dr. Liz Closurdo will review your full dental and medical history to determine whether implants suit your specific needs. She takes the time to answer every question so you can move forward with total confidence.
What Should You Expect When Having Dental Implants Placed?
Dental implant placement involves surgery that requires local to general anesthesia, so plan to bring someone who can drive you home and help care for you until the medication wears off. Our highly trained dentists begin by making an incision into the gumline to expose the bone below. Once we expose the bone, we embed the implant into the gum tissue. The implant must fuse with your jawbone — the longest part of the procedure — which can take up to three months to complete. Once the implant fuses with your bone and creates a structurally sound base, an abutment or crown goes on top. This abutment looks and functions just like your natural teeth. You will need to make routine visits to the office so we can confirm proper healing. Once fully healed, we place a crown on top of the implant, or we fit you for dentures or a partial.
We also understand that cost can feel like a barrier. Our in-house membership plan offers an alternative for patients without traditional insurance, making quality implant care more accessible. Ask our team for details when you reach out.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you want to restore your smile with dental implants in Webster Groves, Webster Family Dental stands ready to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Liz Closurdo and take the first step toward a stronger, more confident smile. We also offer fixed bridges, extractions, and more.
