What are dental implants and how do they work?
Dental implants are a great permanent tooth replacement solution. If you're missing a tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants are the way to go, assuming you have enough bone for it. They are mostly titanium, although some of the newer implants are made of different ceramics. The advantage of a ceramic is that it's white, like teeth, but titanium has worked wonders for years. Think of titanium as a screw; it's shaped like a screw and placed in the bone. The bone regrows around it, which takes about three to four months. It's the growth of that bone into the screw-like structure that keeps the implant in place.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
A person who would qualify for implants is anyone with good bones. To determine this, you would come in for a CT scan, which is like a 3D x-ray showing us the bone density. As long as you have good bones, and other factors align, you're likely a good candidate. The space relationship between the teeth, both in one jaw and between the upper and lower jaws, is also important. But as long as you have good bones, we can usually make it work.
What is the difference between mini implants and full implants?
Mini implants are smaller and typically not used for replacing a single tooth. They are great for dental prostheses, like dentures, that would snap into these implants. A full implant can do everything you've heard of when it comes to implants, such as permanent single tooth replacement, multiple teeth replacement on a bridge, or the all-on-X procedure for replacing all the teeth in a jaw. Full implants are versatile, whereas mini implants have limited applications.
What is the dental implant process from start to finish?
Step one is a free consultation to assess your bone and the space between teeth. We take a CT scan, which is analyzed by a radiologist to check bone density and ensure there are no diseases or cysts. We then design a surgical guide for precise implant placement. When you come in, the process is straightforward and doesn't usually require cutting you open. The appointment typically lasts an hour or less, and it's generally simpler and easier than getting a tooth removed. Most people experience minimal to no pain, and if there is any, it's usually gone within 24-48 hours.
How long do dental implants last?
With good home care, such as proper hygiene, brushing, and flossing, dental implants can last a lifetime. Though the body can reject foreign objects like implants, the success rate is high. As long as you're a non-smoker, not diabetic, and don't have any autoimmune diseases, they typically last a long time. A Waterpik is a great tool to keep implants clean. With good home care, you can have them for many years.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small screws that are placed in the bone to replace a missing tooth. Once a patient is missing a tooth or multiple teeth, if they have enough bone, a dentist will often recommend dental implants.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants restore your teeth to allow you to chew and function as you always have. An advantage of dental implants is that you do not have to cut down your surrounding teeth in order to do a bridge.
What is the process I will go through if I decide to get implants?
The process you would go through if you decide to get implants involves a consultation which includes 3D imaging. This allows us to see exactly where your nerves and other vital structures are and to determine if you have enough bone for an implant. Once that is confirmed, the information is sent to a company that designs a surgical guide for the precise placement of the implant. This is often accomplished without us having to cut the gums at all. The procedure is minimally invasive, involving a small hole placed in the bone to allow the implant to be placed. The bone then heals around it after a few months, allowing us to put a crown on top of that implant.
When would bone grafting be required?
Bone grafting is usually required after a tooth is extracted. A bone graft is often placed after an extraction to allow for the development of dense bone, which ensures that we get a great implant. Bone grafting is also done in cases where a tooth has already been extracted, but there's not enough bone present. In that case, we place a bone graft which leads to the development of more bone.
When choosing new artificial teeth, what options will I have and what are the pros and cons of each?
When choosing teeth for missing spaces, you can go with something removable like a denture that snaps in and out, or you can go with an implant which stays in place and functions as well as your natural teeth.
How long does it typically take to recover from dental implants?
Recovery from a dental implant surgery is usually within 24 hours for most patients.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a very long time. There is no shelf life on them. With good home care, good maintenance, brushing, flossing, and use of a waterpik, you can have them pretty much forever.
Can dental implants get cavities?
Dental implants cannot get cavities. However, you do need to keep them clean because you can lose bone around the implant if you do not brush, floss, and preferably use a waterpik.
Do most insurance plans cover the cost of dental implants?
Today, most insurance plans contribute some amount towards dental implants. In some cases, that could be very close to 100%. Oftentimes, it's probably about half.
What are the costs and financing options involved with dental implants?
Costs of dental implants vary. For a single tooth to place the implant and the crown, you're looking at somewhere in the $3,500 to $4,000 range. There are financing options available.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk to a dentist about dental implants?
If you'd like to schedule an appointment to talk to us about dental implants, please give us a call at (845) 393-9059.
What conditions might disqualify a person from getting dental implants?
There are a few conditions that can disqualify a person from getting dental implants, particularly if you do not have enough bone. Certain medical conditions can also factor into this.
What are the benefits and risks of dental implants?
The benefits of dental implants far outweigh the risk. Benefits include having teeth that function really well and look very natural.
How will a dentist decide if dental implants are right for me?
A dentist will decide if dental implants are right for you based on how much bone you have. If you have enough bone and it makes sense to place an implant, we will certainly place an implant. An implant usually is a better option than a bridge or a denture or any other treatment to replace a missing tooth.
Types of Dental Implants
Single Tooth Dental Implants:
These implants replace tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth while helping to prevent bone loss in the jaw.
They consist of small titanium anchors placed in the jawbone, which fuse with the bone over time. Abutment posts are then inserted into these anchors to facilitate the attachment of replacement teeth.
Implant Supported Bridges:
This restorative solution is suitable for multiple adjacent missing teeth, requiring the support of two implants to anchor a porcelain bridge. It offers both functional and aesthetic benefits compared to natural teeth.
Learn more about Implant Supported Bridges
Implant Supported Dentures
For patients missing numerous teeth, implant-supported dentures may offer advantages over traditional dentures. This approach involves the placement of two or more implants to support the denture. By reducing shifting and providing a more comfortable fit, implant-supported dentures enhance overall comfort and functionality.
Learn more about Implant Supported Dentures
All-on-4 Implants:
This innovative implant solution enables patients with a completely toothless upper or lower arch to replace all teeth using only four implants as anchors.
Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)
When traditional implants are not feasible due to space constraints or insufficient bone mass, MDIs offer a viable alternative. These smaller implants are inserted with minimal invasion and can often support a final replacement tooth in a single day.
Learn more about Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)
Guided Implant Placement
Utilizing specialized software and techniques, guided implant placement enhances the accuracy, safety, and predictability of the procedure. Custom surgical guides direct the precise location, angle, and depth of each implant, resulting in optimal outcomes.
The Benefits of Dental Implants:
Dental implants not only mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth but also contribute to maintaining bone structure and oral health. By providing stability and support, implants aid in chewing healthy foods and restoring confidence in smiling.
Post-Implant Surgery Instructions:
Following implant surgery, it is normal to experience some pain, bleeding, swelling, and seeping. Patients are advised to avoid disturbing the surgical site and follow instructions provided by the dentist for pain management and wound care. Measures such as applying cold compresses and adhering to a soft diet can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Adherence to post-surgery guidelines, including attending follow-up appointments, is crucial for monitoring the healing process and ensuring the success of dental implant treatment. If patients experience increasing pain or swelling beyond a few days post-surgery, prompt communication with the dental office is recommended to address any concerns promptly.