What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that functions like a natural tooth root. Implants are a versatile option for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Implants are surgically placed into the jaw where they gradually bond with your jawbone. The bonding process provides a strong and stable base upon which to attach a crown, bridge or denture.
Dental implants help to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, resolve bite issues or jaw joint pain, and help preserve the natural contours of the jaw and face.
Take the first step towards a more even-looking smile by scheduling an appointment with our team today. If a dental implant is determined to be right for you, we will refer you to an oral surgeon in the area. Once you have healed from surgery, we can place a crown or bridge to complete the restoration process.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth is Important
When a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap can begin to shift out of place, gradually moving into the gap and causing misalignment issues.
The jawbone around the area may also begin to deteriorate, resulting in facial collapse or negatively impacting your ability to chew and speak. For all these reasons, replacing missing teeth is usually necessary to maintain good long-term oral health.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process is completed in two or more separate visits. Following a comprehensive examination at our dental office, we will refer you to an oral surgeon. Once your surgery is complete and you've had time to heal, we will schedule an appointment at our office to complete your treatment.
During your surgical appointment, the implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. As your jaw heals, the implant will bond to the bone and gums, forming a stable base for your artificial tooth or teeth.
The restoration part of the process involves securing the artificial tooth (or teeth) to the dental implant. Depending on the number of implants placed, your restoration could be an individual crown, a bridge or a full denture.
When put together, the two parts of the dental implant work to help give you a restored smile, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, resolve bite issues or jaw joint pain and prevent jaw deterioration and facial collapse.
Dental Implant FAQs
Are you considering dental implants to restore your smile? To learn more about this permanent tooth replacement option, read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Wheatfield Dental.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Proper care includes regular brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending routine hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors including nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants is much the same as caring for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a thorough brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the procedure, there is typically little discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
Eat a diet of soft foods only for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
From start to finish, the dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your specific case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance plans vary widely. Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others will not cover the cost of implants at all.
Contact your insurance provider to find out if dental implants are covered as part of your plan.
