Dental Implants: The Next Best Thing to Natural Teeth

Missing teeth aren’t just a cosmetic issue. They can affect how you speak, eat, and feel in social situations. 

Fortunately, Lynn M. Andreacola, DMD, of Andreacola Family Dentistry in Marlton, New Jersey, offers dental implants as a long-lasting, natural-looking solution that not only fills the gap but also helps protect your oral health and restore full function to your smile. 

Here’s why more people are turning to dental implants and why they’re considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. 

What are dental implants? 

Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically implanted into your jawbone during an in-office procedure. Once healed, they provide a sturdy base for a customized crown that functions like a natural tooth. 

A dental implant is made of the following three parts: 

The implant

Typically made of bio-friendly titanium, the small, screw-like implant eventually fuses with your jawbone, acting as a stable, artificial tooth root. 

The abutment 

The abutment, placed on top of the implant, holds the crown securely in place. 

The crown 

Carefully crafted to match your natural tooth shape, size, and color, the crown is the visible portion of the implant. 

Why dental implants feel like natural teeth 

Dental implants not only look like real teeth, they also feel and function like them. 

That’s because they’re rooted in your jaw, creating a stable and secure foundation with a natural gum line. The crowns are also crafted to mimic the texture and slight sheen of natural teeth, making them a cosmetically appealing choice. 

Benefits include: 

No slipping or clicking  

Unlike dentures, implants stay firmly in place. 

Eat what you love 

Enjoy crunchy, chewy, and tough foods without worry. 

Speak clearly and confidently 

No more adjusting or slurring from loose appliances. 

Feel like your own teeth 

Implants restore the full sensation of biting and chewing. 

The long-term oral health benefits of implants

Beyond just improving your appearance, replacing missing teeth is about maintaining your overall oral health. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants help prevent this. 

Consider the following health advantages of dental implants: 

Preserves jawbone density 

Because dental implants stimulate the jawbone like a natural tooth root, they help maintain jawbone strength and prevent deterioration over time. 

Prevents shifting of nearby teeth 

Dental implants keep surrounding teeth from drifting out of place and disrupting your bite. 

Supports facial structure

Implants help maintain your natural facial contours, reducing the risk of a sunken or aged appearance that can result from long-term tooth loss. 

Protects healthy teeth 

Unlike traditional bridges, implants don’t require grinding down your neighboring teeth, preserving the health and integrity of your natural smile. 

Are dental implants right for you? 

Most people who are in good general and oral health are candidates for dental implants. However, they do require enough bone density in your jaw and a commitment to good oral hygiene during the healing process. 

You may be a good candidate if you: 

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Want an alternative to bridges or dentures
• Don’t smoke or are willing to stop during healing
• Have adequate bone to support the implant 

Dr. Andreacola will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including X-rays or scans, to determine the best plan tailored to your specific needs. 

If you’re ready to replace missing teeth and restore your quality of life, call us at 856-336-9148 or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment today!