If you’re missing one or more teeth you may be wondering about dental implants, how they work, and why you should consider them for your smile. You may have heard that dental implants can be a great way to replace missing or damaged teeth or even improve the appearance of your smile. But if you’re unsure whether dental implant procedures are right for you, it’s essential to understand exactly what they are and how they work before making any decisions about them. Read on to learn more!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement tooth crowns. The end result is similar to having natural teeth; however, instead of being attached to gums, the implant post is anchored directly into the bone. Once the implant has healed, a new tooth-colored dental crown will be cemented over it. It will take anywhere from two to six months for new bone growth to occur around the screw.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants work by anchoring artificial tooth roots directly into the jawbone. When the implants heal, they fuse with the surrounding bone tissue, creating a solid foundation for permanent tooth replacements.
Benefits of Implant Surgery
There are many reasons why people choose dental implants as their preferred method of tooth replacement. Some of these include:
#1. Improved Appearance
When you get implants, you don’t have to worry about losing your beautiful smile because the implants blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. In addition, dental implants give you a much better smile than dentures because they feel and function like real teeth.
#2. Better Oral Health
Because implants are permanent fixtures, they provide stability and strength to your bite. That means less risk of developing TMJ disorders. And since they’re made out of metal, they protect against cavities and other oral diseases.
#3. Less Maintenance
Unlike other dental restorations, such as dentures, implants don’t need to be removed for cleaning.
#4. Increased Comfort
Because implants are permanently fixed to your jawbone, they won’t move around during chewing or speaking. So you won’t experience any discomfort while eating or talking.
Are You a Good Candidate for Tooth Implant Placement?
Keep in mind that there are several requirements before you can get implants:
- You must be healthy enough to undergo dental implant surgery. If you have an active infection like periodontal disease, you’ll need to treat the problem first.
- You must have a healthy jawbone strong enough to hold the implants. If you’ve had previous jaw surgeries or injuries, your jawbone may be too weak to support the implants. In this case, consider getting dentures instead.
- You should not have any underlying health conditions that could affect the healing process.
Visit our dentist today to see if implants are right for your smile!
Types of Implants
The most common type of dental implant used today is the endosteal implant. It’s a titanium post inserted into the jawbone using a surgical procedure. After the implant has healed, it fuses with the bone tissue, providing a stable base for a replacement tooth crown.
Another option is a subperiosteal implant, which involves placing the implant under the gum tissue or above your jawbone. These implants may work for people who have shallow jawbones.
The type of implant you receive depends on how well-suited it is for your particular situation. Talk to our oral surgeon so they can determine what will best suit your needs.
When is Bone Graft Surgery Required?
If you have lost some supporting bone structure in your mouth, you may need to have bone grafts placed before receiving implants. Bone grafting involves taking bone from another area of your body (such as your hip) and implanting it into the missing areas of your jaw. The grafted bone grows over time, creating new bone that supports the implants.
Commonly Asked Questions
What do dental implants look like?
Tooth implants look similar to regular teeth. They’re small cylinders attached to the bone below the gum line and then covered with a prosthetic crown.
Can I eat all my favorite foods after dental implants?
Yes, but you’ll need to avoid hard food items like nuts and popcorn while the surgical sites heal. Soft foods like ice cream, pudding, and yogurt would be great during the healing process!
What are implants made of?
Titanium is the most commonly used material for implants because it has excellent mechanical properties and is highly resistant to corrosion.
Are implants painful?
The dental implant process is usually pain-free, though some patients feel minor discomfort during the healing process. After the initial placement, you may experience soreness, swelling, and minor bleeding at the implant site. These symptoms typically go away within a few days with some pain medication.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades. However, it’s important to note that the longevity of your implant will depend on factors such as your oral hygiene habits, lifestyle, and overall health.
How much do implants cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the type of implant, the number of implants needed, and other factors. A single implant can range from $1,500 to $3,000. The total cost for a full set of implants can be anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000. Additional costs may include bone grafting surgery.
Are dental implants covered by dental insurance?
Your dental implants may be partially covered by your dental insurance if the procedure is deemed medically necessary. It’s best to check with your provider to see what coverage is available for you.
Request an Appointment Today!
You deserve the very best treatment available. Contact us today to learn more about dental implants and other dental restoration options available at our practice. Our dental care team looks forward to giving you a brand-new, beautiful smile!