Why Dental Implants Are the Crown Jewel of the Columbia, SC Community

Losing a tooth used to be something we looked forward to as kids. 

Those were the good ol' days — when losing a tooth meant money under your pillow and a brand new, sparkling white tooth growing behind it. Within a year’s time, it’s as if you never lost a tooth at all. 

But then we get older — and reality hits. 

As an adult, losing a tooth is often accompanied by pain, discomfort, anxiety and — especially in the age of social media and selfies — lack of self-esteem. It also means a trip to the dentist and dental work. 

And while the tooth can be replaced, it won’t happen naturally — or free of charge — like it once did. 

Here at Soda City Dentistry, we understand how burdensome and inconvenient a lost tooth can be. And we’re fully dedicated to helping the Columbia, SC community smile bright (and proud) when needed most. 

With that said, we’d like to introduce you to dental implants — the crown jewel of modern dentistry. 

Dental Implants: A Little Titanium Goes a Long Way

Dental implants are one of the most popular solutions to a lost (or irreparable) tooth. 

Most implants are made of a biocompatible material (usually titanium) that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to provide a strong and stable foundation for a dental crown or bridge, which sits on top of it. 

In other words, the dental implant becomes the root for your new tooth. 

It’s then fitted with a dental crown that matches the rest of your teeth. 

At Soda City Dentistry, we offer single implants (when only one tooth needs to be replaced) and multiple implants (when multiple teeth need to be replaced). Either way, they’ll be surrounded by natural teeth. 

We also offer “all-on-four” and “all-on-six” implants — for replacing a complete set of teeth. 

The procedure usually involves five steps — extracting the tooth (if necessary), bone grafting (if jawbone isn’t strong enough), implanting the post, placing the abutment and, finally, installing the dental crown. 

5 Reasons Our Patients Choose Dental Implants

Dental implants aren’t your only option when replacing a missing tooth. 

Two of the most popular — and effective — alternatives to implants include dental bridges, which use adjacent teeth as an anchor for new teeth, and dentures, which fit over the gums and roof of your mouth.

They all have a place in modern dentistry — but that’s where we come into play.

At Soda City Dentistry, our goal is to meet with each individual patient to ensure their needs and desires are met. As we learn more about your unique situation, we’ll help you find the best possible solution.

Here are the five most prominent reasons why we might recommend dental implants in Columbia, SC. 

5. They Look Like Real Teeth

Dental implants might not be natural teeth, but they certainly look like it. 

Thanks to 3D-imaging software, Dr. Rob Guerriero can map out what the perfect tooth might look like before being inserted into the mouth. This includes the shape of the tooth, as well as the color and shade. 

By the time we’re done with it, no one will be able to tell the difference!

4. They Function Like Real Teeth

Dental implants might not be natural teeth, but they certainly function like it. 

That’s because implants, unlike bridges and dentures, are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration — strengthening its foundation. 

It’s the closest thing to growing a new tooth — without actually growing one!

3. They’re Easy to Maintain

Dental implants might not be natural teeth, but they require the same care. 

One of the biggest benefits of implants is that you won’t need to change your dental routine at all. As long as you’re brushing twice per day and using floss and mouthwash as necessary, then you’ll be good to go. 

Just don’t forget to schedule your annual or bi-annual dental check-up!

2. They’re Built to Last

Dental implants are designed to stay with you for the rest of your life. 

While most bridges and dentures only last 5-10 years before needing to be replaced, dental implants can last a lifetime if properly maintained and cared for. That means your implants are built for the long run. 

The initial cost might be more, but they’ll save you money long-term!

1. They Won’t Damage the Bone

Dental implants truly are the dental gift that keeps on giving. 

When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area no longer receives stimulation from chewing, leading to bone resorption. Since a dental implant provides that stimulation, it can prevent further deterioration. 

Not only that, but it can even reverse some of the existing damage!

Soda City Dentistry: Columbia’s No. 1 Repair Shop for Missing Teeth

Have you recently lost a tooth? Have you been told that one of your teeth is irreparable or unfixable? Do you want something more long-term than bridges or dentures? Are you a candidate for dental implants? 

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, then you’ve come to the right place. 

Welcome to Soda City Dentistry — your one-stop shop to a brighter and fuller smile!

There’s nothing fun about losing a tooth, but Columbia, SC residents can rest easy knowing that Dr. Rob Guerriero is here to save the day. We’ll have your new smile selfie- and photoshoot-ready in no time.

Feel free to contact us today at (803)-794-5430 or book an appointment online to get started.