Dental Implants at Saunders Krog Dental in Fargo ND
A missing tooth can alter more than the appearance of your smile. It may influence your bite, eating patterns, and how you feel about your oral health over time. Dental implants(opens in new tab) offer a reliable method for replacing missing teeth and restoring a smile that feels comfortable and natural.
At Saunders Krog Dental, Robert Saunders and Brittany Krog develops individualized implant plans based on your needs, bite, and goals. Whether a single tooth or several require replacement, our team supports you through every stage of treatment.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small support positioned inside the jaw to replace the portion of a missing tooth that lies below the gumline. It is inserted into the jawbone and allowed to heal before a crown, bridge, or denture is secured on top. It supplies a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or other tooth replacement, creating a restoration that looks and feels closer to a natural tooth.
Unlike traditional options that only replace the visible part of a tooth, dental implants also replace the tooth root to provide stronger support and stability. This helps the restoration stay secure and supports normal chewing. It also helps keep the jawbone healthy by providing the stimulation it needs to stay strong.
After losing a tooth, the jawbone may start to lose strength in that area over time. Dental implants help support the bone and maintain a healthier, more natural-looking smile for the future.
When Should You Consider Dental Implants?
Dental implants can help replace missing teeth and restore a smile that looks, feels, and functions more naturally. They can improve your ability to chew, speak comfortably, and maintain better oral health. Implants may be a good option if you need:
- A single missing tooth replaced without changing the nearby teeth
- Several missing teeth replaced with an implant-supported bridge
- Support for a full set of replacement teeth
- Smile restoration after major tooth loss or damage
Implants usually work best for patients with healthy gums and enough jawbone support. However, bone loss does not always mean implants are not possible. During your consultation, Robert Saunders and Brittany Krog will evaluate your oral health and discuss the best option for your needs.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a reliable way to replace missing teeth and restore the comfort and function of your smile. They are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, helping you eat comfortably, speak clearly, and feel confident in your smile.
Benefits of choosing dental implants include:
- Help you eat and speak more comfortably with a secure tooth replacement
- Support the jawbone and help reduce bone loss after tooth loss
- Do not require support from nearby healthy teeth
- Can last for many years with proper care
- Stay in place without adhesives or daily removal
Replacing missing teeth also helps keep nearby teeth from shifting into the open space over time. When teeth move out of position, it can affect your bite and make cleaning harder. Filling the gap with a dental implant helps maintain proper alignment and supports better long-term oral health
Understanding the Dental Implant Process
Getting a dental implant is a step-by-step process that takes place over time. Each stage gives your mouth the chance to heal properly and allows the implant to become a strong, stable base for your replacement tooth.
The process usually includes:
- A consultation and exam: Your dentist will check your teeth and jawbone, often using 3D imaging, to plan your treatment.
- Implant placement: A titanium post is placed into the jawbone to act as the new tooth root.
- Healing period: The implant bonds with the bone over the next few months to create a stable base.
- Abutment placement: A small connector is added to hold the final restoration.
- Final restoration: A custom crown, bridge, or denture is placed on the implant to restore your smile and help you chew and speak comfortably.
Some patients may need a tooth extraction or bone graft before implant placement. Robert Saunders and Brittany Krog will explain each step of your treatment plan and what you can expect throughout the process.
Healing and Caring for Your Dental Implant
Proper care during the healing period helps your implant heal well and stay strong for years. Following your dentist’s instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene can support a smoother recovery.
A few ways to care for your implant include:
- Eat soft foods for the first few days to avoid pressure on the surgical area.
- Keep the area clean by brushing gently and following your rinsing instructions.
- Avoid smoking, as it can affect healing and the way the implant bonds with the bone.
- Keep your follow-up appointments so we can make sure you are healing properly.
- After healing, brush and floss around your implant like you would with natural teeth.
Dental implants cannot get cavities, but the gums and bone supporting them still need regular care. Routine checkups and cleanings help keep the area healthy, protect your implant, and identify any concerns before they become bigger problems.
Peri-implantitis is a condition where the gums and bone around an implant become infected due to plaque buildup. Regular dental visits, cleanings, and good oral care can help prevent problems and keep your implant healthy for the long term.
Living With a Dental Implant
Once your implant has fully healed, it is carefully designed to feel like a natural part of your smile. Most patients can eat their favorite foods, speak clearly, and go about their daily activities without worrying about their replacement tooth moving or feeling uncomfortable.
The crown placed on top of the implant is custom-made to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. It is designed to blend in with your smile so it looks and feels natural. With proper care, your dental implant can provide reliable function and support your smile for many years
Payment and Insurance
We understand that cost is an important part of deciding on dental implant treatment. At Saunders Krog Dental, we accept several dental insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Delta Dental, Cigna Dental, and United Concordia Dental.
We also offer payment options, including CareCredit financing, to help make treatment more manageable. Our team will review your coverage, explain your options, and answer any questions before your treatment begins.
Ready to Restore Your Smile? Schedule a Consultation!
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be a solution worth exploring. Contact Saunders Krog Dental to schedule a consultation with Robert Saunders and Brittany Krog and learn how implants can help restore your smile, comfort, and confidence.
Contact Information
Saunders Krog Dental:
2834 University Dr S:
Phone: (701) 293-9886(opens in new tab)
