Restore Missing Teeth with Dental Implants in Freeport ME at Alta Dental of Maine

Missing teeth can make eating and speaking more difficult, but dental implants offer a dependable way to restore strength and stability to your bite. Designed to look and function like natural teeth, they help protect your oral health for years to come. At Alta Dental of Maine, we provide expert implant care tailored to your needs.

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Understanding How Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth and restore full chewing power. They are small titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots, securely holding a replacement tooth in place. Over time, the implant bonds to your jawbone, creating a strong, stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Unlike dentures that can slip or shift, implants stay fixed in place. They feel and work just like natural teeth, making it easier to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Another great benefit of implants is that they help keep your jawbone healthy. When a tooth is lost, the bone can shrink over time, but an implant helps prevent that by stimulating the bone.

Dental implants are designed to last for many years with proper care. They offer a long-term solution for missing teeth and help keep your mouth healthy and functional.

At Alta Dental of Maine, we specialize in placing strong, natural-looking dental implants that help patients regain comfort and confidence in their daily lives.

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Why You May Need Dental Implants?

Dental implants can help many people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other causes. They are a strong, long-lasting option for replacing missing teeth and keeping your mouth healthy. Here are some common reasons why you may need an implant:

• Missing teeth: To replace one or several teeth lost from injury or decay.
• Loose dentures: Implants securely hold dentures in place for greater comfort.
• Bone loss: Implants help preserve bone structure and prevent jawbone shrinkage.
• Difficulty chewing: Replacing missing teeth restores normal eating function.
• Gaps in your smile: To keep remaining teeth from shifting out of position.

Dental implants improve your appearance, strengthen your bite, and maintain your oral health. They are made to last for decades with good care and regular dental checkups.

At Alta Dental of Maine, our team carefully examines your mouth to determine if implants are the best solution for your needs, ensuring comfort, stability, and a natural look.

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The Process of Getting Dental Implants in Freeport ME

Getting dental implants is a process that takes a few steps, but each step is important for ensuring your new teeth are strong and long-lasting. Here’s what to expect:

• Consultation: The dentist checks your mouth and takes X-rays or 3D scans to plan your treatment.
• Implant placement: The titanium post is placed into your jawbone, where it acts like a natural root.
• Healing period: Your bone grows around the implant over a few months, creating a strong base.
• Abutment placement: A small connector is added to hold your new tooth.
• Final crown: A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to complete your new tooth.

Each step is done with care and precision to ensure a comfortable experience and a perfect fit. After your implant heals, it will feel and work just like a natural tooth. At Alta Dental of Maine, we use advanced tools and gentle techniques to make your implant treatment safe, smooth, and successful.

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Exploring the Different Types of Dental Implants and Their Benefits

Not all dental implants are the same. The type that’s best for you depends on your oral health, jawbone strength, and the number of teeth you need to replace. Here are the main types of dental implants and their benefits:

• Single-tooth implants: Replace one missing tooth with a custom-made crown.
• Implant-supported bridges: Fill a gap where several teeth are missing without using natural teeth for support.
• Full arch implants: Replace an entire row of teeth with a fixed bridge or denture.
• Mini implants: Smaller implants are used when less bone is available.

Each type provides strong, lasting results and helps restore both function and appearance. Dental implants can also prevent jawbone loss and help maintain the shape of your face over time. Your dentist will explain which type fits your needs and create a plan that gives you a comfortable, confident bite for years to come.

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Meet Dr. Joseph Wetherhold, DMD

Dr. Joseph Wetherhold, DMD studied at the University of San Diego and earned his dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. Early in his career, he worked with the Peace Corps in Honduras, teaching fish farming and helping with local projects.

Always looking to expand his skills, Dr. Wetherhold recently completed advanced implant training in the Dominican Republic, where he also provided dental care to communities in need. He holds memberships with CDOCS, SERE, and the American Dental Association (ADA). Now practicing in Freeport, Dr. Wetherhold offers dental care to patients in the town and nearby areas.

Restore your missing teeth with durable dental implants from Alta Dental of Maine in Freeport ME. Call (207) 865-1900 to schedule your appointment today!