Our team at Advanced Dental Care is here to help you smile with confidence again. Take the 2-minute quiz to see if you are a candidate for dental implant treatment.
Once placed, dental implants are very comfortable and feel just like natural teeth. During the implant surgery, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the treatment area and you will receive sedation that you won't experience any pain. After the procedure, there will be some discomfort and swelling, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Most patient report feeling only minor discomfort after having an implant placed, and it generally passes within a few days.
Dental implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses directly with bone tissue in your jaw. This makes them incredibly strong and durable for years of use, providing a permanent anchor your for replacement teeth.
The full duration of the implant treatment process depends on many factors, such as the your unique condition and how complex your case may be. On average, it takes 3-6 months from start to finish before you have your new replacement tooth or teeth. The procedure itself typically takes two procedures -- one to place the implant post and one to attach the prosthetic tooth or bridge -- each taking roughly two hours.
The greatest benefits of getting a dental implant include improved aesthetics, better chewing ability, enhanced oral health due to fewer cavities and gum disease, and increased self-confidence from having beautiful new teeth that look natural! On the other hand, some downsides include higher cost than most other dental restorations (though many insurance companies provide coverage), and longer healing time compared to other restorations. Additional treatments such as bone grafts or sinus lifts might be needed, and individuals with certain medical conditions may not qualify for dental implants.
This type of restoration can last upwards of 10-15 years, and even longer in some cases depending upon how thoroughly they were cared for afterward by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once per day. Regular checkups should also be scheduled every six months to ensure maximum longevity so that your dentist can catch any signs of wear early on.
For many patients, insurance coverage is available depending on your plan’s specifics regarding oral care benefits as well as its deductible amount(s). It is best to check directly with your insurer first before any procedures are scheduled so you know what costs will fall upon yourself vs your insurer beforehand if there is any coverage provided at all.