Maybe you’ve lost a tooth to injury or decay. Maybe you’ve been dealing with a gap for years and just learned to live with it. Or maybe your dentures have never felt quite right. Whatever brought you here, you’re not alone. Millions of adults have at least one missing tooth. And many are discovering that dental implants offer something other options don’t: a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like the real thing.
Dr. Jordan Morris offers dental implants at Sahuarita Premier Dentistry. Here’s what you need to know about this restorative option.
What Exactly Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant has three parts.
- The post: A small titanium screw that is surgically placed into your jawbone. This acts like the root of your natural tooth.
- The abutment: A connector piece that attaches to the post and holds your new tooth.
- The crown: The visible, tooth-colored replacement that sits on top.
The magic happens because titanium fuses with bone over time. This process, called osseointegration, makes the implant become part of your jaw. That’s what gives implants their incredible stability.
How Do Implants Differ from Other Options?
If you’ve looked at tooth replacement before, you’ve probably heard about bridges and dentures. Dental bridges anchor to neighboring teeth. Those healthy teeth get shaved down to hold the bridge in place. The bridge itself fills one gap but doesn’t replace the root. Dentures sit on top of your gums. They can slip, click, or feel uncomfortable. They don’t stimulate your jawbone, which can gradually shrink over time.
Dental implants stand on their own. No neighboring teeth are harmed. They stimulate your jawbone just like natural roots do. That actually helps prevent bone loss.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Implants?
Most adults with one or more missing teeth are candidates. But Dr. Morris looks for a few key things:
- Enough jawbone to support the post
- Healthy gums without active disease
- Good general health for healing
- Commitment to good oral hygiene
Some patients need a bone graft before implant placement. Others may need treatment for gum disease first. Dr. Morris will evaluate your specific situation and talk through realistic options.
What Does the Process Look Like?
Getting an implant takes time, but it’s straightforward. First Dr. Morris places the titanium post into your jaw. You’ll be numb and comfortable. This is a surgical procedure, but most patients compare it to having a tooth extracted.
After placement, your body needs time to heal. This takes several months while the bone fuses with the post. During this time, you might wear a temporary tooth if it’s in a visible spot. Once healing is complete, Dr. Morris attaches the abutment and your custom-made crown. Now your new tooth is complete.
The whole process usually takes three to six months. That might sound long, but it’s time well spent. That permanent, stable tooth can last for decades with proper care.
Do Implants Feel Real?
Patients tell us all the time: “I can’t believe how natural this feels.” Implants don’t slip. They don’t click. You can eat whatever you want. Brushing and flossing feel normal again.
And because the bone stays healthy, your jaw retains its natural shape. You don’t get that sunken look that sometimes happens with missing teeth.
We’ve Helped Patients Just Like You
Dr. Morris has advanced training in restorative dentistry, including implants. He’s helped patients from Sahuarita, Green Valley, Tucson, and beyond rebuild their smiles.
And he understands that missing teeth affect more than your ability to chew. They affect how you feel about yourself. That’s why he takes time to understand what you want from treatment.
Ready to Find Out If Implants Are Right for You?
You don’t have to live with gaps in your smile. Dr. Morris would be happy to meet with you, answer your questions, and help you decide if implants are the right path forward.
Call Sahuarita Premier Dentistry today at 520-412-9162 to schedule a consultation. Let’s talk about what a complete smile could mean for you.