Dental Implants

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, the implants are gently placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following this procedure, the implants beneath the surface of the gums gradually bond with the jawbone so that there will be a stable anchor for the artificial tooth. During this period, you should be able to wear temporary dentures if desired and progress to eating a normal diet with time.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Our doctors or your restorative dentist will uncover the implants and attach small posts to the implants that will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen. The entire treatment process usually takes six to eight months, and most patients experience minimal disruption to their daily life.

There are even situations where the implants can be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction, further minimizing the number of surgical procedures. Advances in dental implant technology have made it possible, in select cases, to extract teeth and place implants with temporary crowns all in one visit. The procedure, called immediate provisionals, has dramatically simplified the surgical process.

Your body’s healing abilities will determine the time necessary for implants to heal to the underlying jawbone. There isn’t much that can be done to speed up the process, and it is recommended to allow the implant at least three months of healing prior to placing the final artificial tooth. The great news is once the restoration process is complete, there are no special requirements to maintain your dental implants other than routine brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. With proper dental hygiene habits, dental implants are a long-term solution offering more stability and overall health compared to more traditional options.

A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as the root of a missing tooth. It is surgically placed into the jawbone and serves as a foundation for a custom-made artificial tooth called a crown.

Dental implants are an ideal solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile if you have one or more missing teeth, are in good overall health, have adequate bone density to support the implant, and do not have active gum disease or other oral health issues.

Dental implants not only improve the appearance and function of your smile but also promote better oral health and well-being. Dental implants can improve your appearance, enhance the functionality of your teeth, and preserve jawbone health by stimulating bone growth and preventing deterioration.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, restoring the appearance of your smile and allowing you to eat and speak with confidence.

A skilled oral surgeon places a titanium post into the jawbone, ensuring stability. Over time, osseointegration occurs, bonding the implant with the jawbone. An abutment is attached, serving as a base for the custom-made crown. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring comfort throughout the process.

The All-on-4 technique uses four strategically placed dental implants to provide a stable foundation for a full arch of replacement teeth. With fewer implants required and less time for completion compared to traditional methods, All-on-4 dental implants restore the ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, the number of implants needed, and any additional procedures required. The average cost of a dental implant procedure can range from $1,500 to $6,500, depending on the location and specific situation.

Insurance coverage for dental implants may vary. Some insurance plans cover portions of dental implants. In some instances, dental implants may fall outside the realm of dental insurance but could be covered by regular medical insurance. Reach out to your insurance provider directly to confirm if dental implants are covered under your specific policy.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can remain in place for 25 years or more. Regular check-ups with a dental professional are crucial to monitor the health of the implants and ensure their longevity. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene, including regular flossing and brushing, and avoid habits like grinding your teeth.

Surgically placing the dental implant into the jawbone usually takes around 1-2 hours per implant. After implant placement, there is a several-month healing period to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Once the implant has fully integrated, an abutment is attached to the implant, and a custom-made crown or prosthetic tooth is placed onto the abutment, which takes a couple of appointments. Overall, the entire dental implant process can span several months.

The dental implant procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the patient is provided pain medication to manage any post-surgery discomfort. Most patients report minimal pain or discomfort during and after the procedure. Patients may experience temporary discomfort following the procedure, with common side effects including soreness in the teeth, gums, and jaw surrounding the treatment area.

Proper oral care and regular dental visits are essential for the long-term success and longevity of your dental implants. To properly care for your dental implants, maintain good oral hygiene, floss regularly, use an antimicrobial mouthwash, and avoid harmful habits such as smoking or biting on hard objects. Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, and report any concerns if you notice any changes or experience discomfort around your implants.

After getting dental implants, it is recommended to follow certain dietary restrictions during the healing process. Avoiding foods that are hard, crunchy, spicy, acidic, or sticky will help with the healing process. After your dental implants are healed, there may no longer be strict dietary restrictions.