Dental Implants: The Permanent Solution For Missing Teeth

At Gentle Family Dentistry, our professional family dentist have all of the skills and experience necessary to take care of the oral health care needs of you and your family, from a regular cleaning to dental implants, we got you covered. Here are Gentle Family Dentistry we believe that your teeth affect everything – from your smile and confidence, to your ability to eat, speak and participate in everyday activities. There is no better option to restore missing teeth. As a permanent restoration, dental implants are an ideal investment in your oral health. Call our trusted team today for any of our dental implant services. Our family, pediatric & emergency dentists serve Augusta, Madison, Winslow, ME, and the surrounding communities.

---

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that’s placed into your jawbone to act like a replacement tooth root. Once it bonds with the bone (a process called osseointegration), we attach a crown, bridge, or denture on top—creating a fully functional and natural-looking tooth. In short, dental implants aren’t just a cosmetic fix. They provide structure, support, and strength where it matters most—below the surface.

Routine cleanings and checkups with your dentist are the best ways to maintain your overall dental health. Beyond just having a cleaner, whiter smile when you leave the office, routine dental checkups are also able to screen patients for cavities, infections, and more that may go unnoticed otherwise. Even if you take exceptional care of your teeth by brushing and flossing daily, dental professionals still agree that patients should be seen by their dentist every six months. Fortunately, Gentle Family Dentistry offers cleanings for patients spanning from pediatrics to adult dentistry, and we are accepting new patients!

---

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Let’s face it: missing teeth can lead to more than just an incomplete smile. Without a tooth root to stimulate the jawbone, the bone can begin to deteriorate over time. That can cause your facial shape to change and make future dental problems more likely.

Here’s why dental implants are one of the best solutions available:

• Look and feel natural
• Restore full chewing power
• Prevent bone loss in the jaw
• Support adjacent teeth and prevent shifting
• Last for decades with proper care
• No slipping, clicking, or adhesives like dentures

Once placed, you’ll be able to eat, talk, and smile with complete confidence.

---

Types of Dental Implant Solutions We Offer

Everyone’s situation is different. That’s why we offer a range of dental implant options tailored to your specific needs.

Single-Tooth Implants
Perfect for replacing one missing tooth without affecting neighboring teeth. It’s a standalone restoration that feels just like the real thing.

Implant-Supported Bridges
If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge fills the gap without needing a separate implant for every tooth.

Full-Arch Implants / Implant Dentures
For patients missing all upper or lower teeth, a full set of teeth can be anchored securely to just a few implants. These can be fixed or removable depending on your preferences.

We’ll walk you through your options and help you find the right fit for your smile and lifestyle.

---

What To Expect During the Dental Implant Process

Getting dental implants takes time, but the results are well worth it. Here’s a quick breakdown of what the process typically looks like:

1. Consultation & Evaluation
   We start with a full exam, 3D imaging, and a conversation about your goals. We’ll assess your jawbone health and determine whether implants are the right solution.
2. Implant Placement
   The titanium post is placed in your jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Most patients report only mild discomfort afterward, similar to having a tooth extracted.
3. Healing & Integration
   Over the next few months, the implant fuses with your bone. During this time, we may place a temporary restoration if needed.
4. Final Restoration
   Once healing is complete, we place your permanent crown, bridge, or denture. It’s custom-designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and fit.

---

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you:

• Are missing one or more teeth
• Have healthy gums and an adequate jawbone
• Don’t want to deal with removable dentures
• Are in overall good health and don’t smoke

If you’ve experienced bone loss, don’t worry—bone grafting can often make implants possible even when jawbone volume is low.

---

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Nothing lasts forever, but for most patients 45 years or older a dental implant will last for life. The implant itself won’t typically need replacement but the crown or cap placed on the appliance may need restoration or replacement every 10-15 years. With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or more, and many last a lifetime. The key is keeping your gums healthy and staying on top of your regular dental checkups.

---

How To Care For Your Dental Implant

Dental implants are low maintenance, but not no maintenance. Just treat them like your natural teeth:

• Brush and floss daily
• Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
• Avoid chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens)
• See your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams

We’ll give you a personalized care plan to make sure your implant stays strong and functional for years to come.

---

Schedule Your Implant Consultation Today

Ready to stop hiding your smile or struggling with gaps? At Gentle Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you regain full confidence in your smile. Call today to schedule a dental implant consultation in Augusta ME, Madison ME, or Winslow ME—let’s rebuild your bite and restore what you’ve been missing.

---

Financial FAQ's about Implants