One of the most significant advances in the field of dentistry over the past few decades has been the advent of the osseointegrated dental implant.
Although dentures and conventional fixed bridges remain highly effective options for rebuilding a complete smile, dental implants represent the most advanced method for replacing missing teeth. With dental implants, individuals who have lost teeth can once again enjoy all their favorite foods, as well as speak and smile with renewed confidence and ease. The reasons are simple. Dental implants behave in much the same way as the roots of your natural teeth, integrating with the jawbone to provide unparalleled support for a single dental crown, multiple crowns, or an entire set of teeth. Furthermore, they not only make it possible to replace teeth without involving and having to crown any adjacent teeth, but they also help prevent bone shrinkage in the edentulous ("toothless") area to help preserve the natural contours of your face.
According to clinical studies, dental implants have a demonstrated long-term success rate of well over 95%. One key to the success and longevity of a dental implant is the presence of sufficient bone to provide stable support for the implanted surgical post. If insufficient bone is present, a bone grafting procedure is often recommended before the placement of a dental implant. Additionally, candidates for dental implants should be free of periodontal disease and be aware that maintaining a continued, effective oral hygiene routine and care is necessary to keep the implant strong and functional.
It's essential to plan and meticulously execute every step in care, from initial treatment planning and the precise placement of dental implants to the design, fabrication, and insertion of the final crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Thanks to advances in care, there are many ways a dental implant and the replacement tooth can get placed. In some instances, a replacement tooth or teeth can be placed over an implant during a single visit. More frequently, however, placing a dental implant and restoring a tooth gets performed in stages.
Placing the dental implants is considered a minor surgical procedure and can typically be performed in-office. However, the extent of the procedure depends on the type and number of dental implants, as well as whether any additional procedures are required to prepare the supporting bone.
As your trusted partner in care, you can rely on our office to keep you well-informed every step of the way. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities. We do everything we can to put you at ease and make every visit to our office both comfortable and stress-free. Before your implant procedure, we'll discuss dental anesthesia and your options in dental sedation. We'll also provide detailed pre-op and post-op care instructions.
Following dental implant placement, it takes a few months for the implant to fully integrate with the surrounding bone. Once the bone has integrated around the implant, the next phase of treatment requires returning to our office to uncover the top portion of the implant for the placement of a temporary healing cap. It's then time to return to the dentist who is restoring your dental implant and placing the permanent replacement tooth. There are implant systems (one-stage) that do not require this second step. These systems use an implant that already has the extension piece attached. Our office will advise you on which system and implant options are right for your smile.
The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors such as the number of implants needed, any additional procedures (such as bone grafting), and the type of restoration used. We will provide you with a detailed estimate after your consultation.
Yes, dental implants are safe and have been used successfully for decades. The materials used in dental implants, such as titanium, are biocompatible and naturally integrate with the bone, ensuring a long-lasting solution.
With proper care and regular check-ups, dental implants can last a lifetime. The replacement tooth (crown) may need to be replaced after several years, but the implant post itself is permanent.
The dental implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you are comfortable throughout the surgery. Some mild discomfort and swelling may occur during the recovery period, but this is usually temporary.
The dental implant process can take several months to complete, including the healing time for osseointegration. However, the process varies depending on the number of implants, the need for bone grafting, and your individual healing response.
If you have gum disease, it must be treated before proceeding with dental implants. Gum disease can lead to bone loss, which may affect the success of the implant. Our team will work with you to address any gum health issues before moving forward with implants.
Unlike dentures, which are removable and can slip or cause discomfort, dental implants are permanent fixtures that are securely anchored in the jawbone. They offer improved stability, comfort, and function.
If your jawbone has been damaged or has insufficient density to support a dental implant, bone grafting may be necessary. We will assess your bone health during the consultation and recommend any additional procedures if needed.
Yes, once your dental implants are fully integrated and your restoration is in place, you can eat and chew normally. Implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of foods.
Many insurance plans offer partial coverage for dental implants. We will work with you to determine your insurance benefits and provide financing options if needed.
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