What Are Implants?
Essentially, implants provide the foundation needed for prosthetic teeth without placing the weight of support on the surrounding teeth. Implants function as roots do for healthy teeth, keeping the tooth properly connected to the jawbone. With current technological advancements, modern implants are the strongest support possible for replacement teeth.
Benefits of Implants
Provide a strong foundation for artificial teeth.
Support prosthetic teeth comfortably and invisibly.
Improve the appearance of your smile.
Preserves bone health and stimulates growth.
Allow your other teeth to only support themselves.
Make a plan.
At your first visit, we will conduct a full examination of your mouth to determine the optimal solution. As needed, x-rays and 3D imaging will be utilized to create a clear picture of your options. Our team will consult with you to reach the ideal implant surgery plan.
Ensure your comfort.
When you arrive for your next appointment, making you comfortable is our first priority. Local anesthesia and sedation are available as needed to put you at rest for the procedure.
Implement the implant.
At the jawbone, we will carefully place the implant in the location of your missing tooth. Although some swelling and pain after the sedatives and anesthesia has worn off is possible, most patients have reported minimal pain. If possible, an abutment or small connector will be placed at this time as well.
Allow healing and bonding time.
During your healing process over the next few months, your jawbone and the implant will naturally bond. This process of your jawbone and the implant growing together is called osseointegration and it is the reason why implants allow for the strongest foundation. Essentially, your body is accepting the implant as a natural part of your smile. After the healing period is complete, your artificial tooth will have the ideal base ready.
Make impressions.
Now that your foundation is ready, impressions will be made so that your custom tooth or teeth can be created. These impressions will account for your whole smile so the artificial tooth or teeth will blend cohesively with your existing teeth.
Complete your smile.
When your custom tooth or teeth are ready, we will attach them to the abutment and implant. Your prosthetic tooth or teeth will function and appear as if it always was a part of your smile.
FAQs
Dental implants serve as the foundation like tooth roots for artificial teeth. They appear like screws, but they are not visible and can bond with your jawbone naturally. A dental implant could support one or two artificial teeth. Currently, dental implants are the most natural artificial tooth in terms of function and appearance.
Dental implants, appearing like screws, are secured to your jawbone to serve as a solid base for artificial teeth. Essentially, dental implants are acting as tooth roots. Dental implants are connected to your custom-made crown using an abutment. Your custom-crafted crown will fit your smile perfectly and blend seamlessly with the color of your other teeth as well.
The length of time needed depends on how complex the implant procedure. If you are having a single implant, it could be complete in an hour. If you have many implants placed at the same time, your procedure could last at least 3-4 hours. Prior to surgery, our team will brief you on what to expect timewise.
Every patient has a different level of pain tolerance, but most patients describe the discomfort as manageable and no longer present after 2-5 days. Depending on your discomfort, you could take over the counter medications or we can prescribe options for pain options when needed. During the procedure, we offer a variety of options for keeping you comfortable. The surgery is very routine so nothing to fear in terms of pain or safety.
Every dental insurance plan varies, but most do not cover implant procedure entirely. Generally, dental insurance plans will help with the cost of the crown or 20-25% of your expenses, but not the remaining. We can help you understand your dental coverage ahead of time so you will not have any surprises with your implant procedure.
Unfortunately, Medicare is not known for its dental coverage, even for routine care. Most likely, Medicare will not cover your dental implants. We are happy to help you explore financing options if you are reliant on Medicare.
Dental implants can last 25 years or more, depending on factors such as lifestyle and dental regimen. Since they are viewed as a long-term solution, they should be treated with the same level of commitment as your normal teeth. Dental implants need regular dental hygiene at home and biannual dentist visits too. Drinking and smoking can diminish the lifespan of dental implants. Also, avoiding biting down on hard things or using your teeth to open things could impact the longevity of your implants as well.
Your cost will depend greatly upon how many implants you are having and the complexity of your procedure (for example, needing bone grafts, extractions, etc.). Since dental implants are considered a nearly permanent solution if well-taken care of, the procedure must be done carefully with skilled dental staff and quality materials. Your cost could be as low as $1,500 or well beyond $10,000. Remember that dental implants are a surgery, so they are similarly expensive to any other surgical procedure. Prior to your surgery, we can provide a more accurate estimate of your actual needs. The best way to determine your cost is through a consultation.
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