.png){kind=logo}
If you have a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, your dentist may recommend dental implants to replace them. But what are dental implants? What is the process like? How long do they last?
Below is more information about dental implants, the placement process, and more.
Dental implants are tooth replacement prosthetics that involve a titanium rod being placed into the jawbone of a patient to hold a false tooth or teeth in place. Depending on the number of teeth that need to be replaced, a patient may get a single implant, implant-supported bridge, or implant-supported dentures.
There are a lot of fantastic benefits to dental implants.
One major benefit that separates dental implants from other replacement options is their longevity. The metal implants themselves can last a lifetime if they are properly cared for. They are extremely strong and durable. With that said, the prosthetic tooth or teeth will eventually need to be swapped out.
Another benefit of dental implants is the ability to bite and chew your favorite foods. Dental implants provide the support needed to eat a large range of foods. Whether you have a gap in your teeth or you need an entire row of teeth replaced, you’ll find dental implants make it that much easier to enjoy your favorite foods.
Something that many people don’t consider when it comes to their teeth is how teeth help to keep each other in place. Having a gap in your smile can actually lead to healthy teeth migrating over time. This, in turn, leads to impacting, crookedness, and crowding. As a result of crookedness and crowding, oral care can become much more difficult. Brushing and flossing crooked and crowded teeth can be challenging. Without proper care, your healthy teeth can start to develop cavities and/or your gums may become infected. This can lead to much more serious oral healthcare issues down the line.
Dental implants keep your healthy teeth rooted in place and prevent tooth migration.
Who doesn’t love having a full smile? Dental implants fill in any gaps in your teeth, which provides you with a full and natural-looking smile.
Finally, dental implants help to keep your jawbone strong. Over time, without teeth or a replacement in place, your jawbone will begin to deteriorate. When implants are installed, they fuse to your jawbone and keep your jawbone strong.
For more information about the benefits of dental implants, reach out to Nova Dental!
If you are considering dental implants, the first step you’ll want to take is to visit Nova Dental for an inspection and consultation. Your dentist will perform a visual examination and x-ray to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. If they decide you are, an appointment will be scheduled to install the titanium rods that will hold the prosthetics in place. Local anesthesia will be used during your implant procedure to ensure you don’t experience any pain. You may still experience a little discomfort during the procedure, though.
After around six to twelve weeks, the rods should be fused to the jawbone. At this point, your dentist will check the implants to make sure they are secure. Once everything is healed, your dentist will place abutments and a prosthetic or prosthetics.
If only a single implant is being placed, the procedure is essentially the same.
There are a few main factors that will determine whether or not you are a candidate for implants. The first is the integrity of your jawbone.
In order to place a dental implant, the jawbone needs to be strong enough to actually hold the implant securely. If it is not, your dentist may recommend a bone graft. These procedures are generally effective, but they do cost additional money. During a bone graft, bone tissue is transferred from the body of the patient or a tissue bank to the jawbone. After the bone has regenerated and grown stronger, the implant can be placed.
Even with a strong enough jawbone, there are other factors. The cost of a dental implant procedure can be high, especially if more than one tooth is being replaced. While insurance may cover a portion, it may not cover any of the procedure at all. Either way, you’ll need to consider out-of-pocket costs.
Speak with your dentist at Nova Dental to see if you are a good candidate for an implant procedure.
The dental implants themselves are intended to last a very long time—often the entire life of the patient. With that said, the prosthetic teeth that sit on the implants will eventually need to be replaced. You can expect a dental implant prosthetic to last around 10 to 15 years, depending on how well you care for it.
Nova Dental offers outstanding, premium dentistry services for a variety of different patients. We offer general, cosmetic, and even family dentistry services.
Our staff consists of the best in their respective industries. From the moment you walk in the door until you check out, you’ll be met with a professional and friendly staff that is there to help you every step of the way.
Dr. Guldalian has many years of experience in the industry and is the best dentist in the area. She is well-educated and experienced in the field of dentistry.
If you need a tooth or multiple teeth replaced, reach out to Nova Dental. We’ll take a look at the area and determine the best course of action to replace the missing tooth or teeth. If implants are an option, Dr. Guldalian will walk you through the process and help to determine if they are the best choice to meet your needs and budget.
We look forward to meeting you and helping you with all of your dental needs!