What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a screw that goes into the jaw, replacing a missing tooth. We put a tooth on top of that and connect it to the implant, restoring your chewing ability, aesthetics, and speech.
What condition would cause a dentist to recommend dental implants?
Sometimes patients may have a condition where their teeth, gums, or bone are breaking down, making their teeth less functional. While we try to save the teeth as best as we can, certain situations may require a dental implant. Benefits include restoring the ability to chew, smile, and overall health, as better eating leads to better health.
What is the process I will go through if I get dental implants?
This is a very common question. Typically, dental implants can be placed with regular Novocaine. It is a routine procedure, often considered easier than tooth extraction. Sometimes deeper anesthesia is used, but generally, you will undergo a surgical procedure to receive a dental implant.
What is involved in a dental exam?
When assessing a patient for implants, we take several x-rays to ensure there is enough bone for dental implants and to determine if any other procedures are necessary. We typically perform a CBCT scan, which is a 3D scan of your jaws, along with a regular x-ray. We also examine the health of your other teeth.
Why is my medical history important?
Medical history is crucial because certain conditions may affect the healing process of dental implants. A thorough medical history helps ensure the best success for your implants.
How will my dentist come up with a treatment plan that is right for me?
At Smiles By Design, we conduct a comprehensive exam, looking at the entire mouth to ensure everything is stable and healthy. This approach helps us develop the best treatment plan for your long-term health and well-being.
What are the steps in the process of getting a dental implant?
The first step is removing the tooth, followed by preparing the area to ensure enough bone for the implant. Bone grafting may be necessary in certain situations. After healing, the dental implant is placed, followed by a healing period. Once healed, an abutment connects the crown to the implant, and then the crown is placed on top.
When will bone grafting be required?
If a tooth has been missing for a long time or recently extracted, there may be bone loss. To ensure a predictable and long-term successful implant, a certain amount of bone is needed, which may require bone grafting.
When choosing new artificial teeth, what options do I have, and what are the pros and cons of each?
There are two options for implant-supported artificial teeth: fixed and removable. Fixed teeth remain in place day and night, feel like natural teeth, but are more expensive and require diligent cleaning. Removable dentures, connected to implants, are more stable than regular dentures and easier to clean but must be removed at night.
How long does it typically take to recover from dental implants?
Recovery time varies based on the number of implants and whether bone grafting was performed. A single implant recovery is similar to a tooth extraction, taking a couple of days to feel less sore, with full gum healing in a few weeks. Full mouth implants may take about a week for initial healing.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime if maintained well. The key is keeping them clean and healthy to prevent bacterial buildup.
What are the costs and financing options involved in dental implants?
Costs vary depending on the procedure. Single implants cost less, and multiple implants cost more. We offer financing options to spread payments over time, making it more affordable based on your needs.
Do most insurance plans cover the costs of dental implants?
Coverage varies, with about half of the insurance plans covering part of the cost of dental implants.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk to a dentist about dental implants?
To schedule an appointment, call our office for a consultation or new patient exam so the doctor can evaluate your needs.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury or some other reason.
While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.
Dental implants are so natural looking and feeling you may forget you ever lost a tooth. You know that your confidence about your teeth affects how you feel about yourself, both personally and professionally. Perhaps you hide your smile because of spaces from missing teeth. Maybe your dentures don’t feel secure. Perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, there is good news! Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own! With proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants.
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