Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. They are made of titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement for the root of a lost tooth. Once the implant is integrated with the bone, a crown, bridge, or denture is placed on top, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth.
Most people in good health are candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates have healthy gums and enough bone density to support the implant. However, certain conditions like gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or osteoporosis may need to be addressed before implant placement. During your consultation, we will evaluate your oral health and discuss whether implants are a suitable option for you.
The dental implant process generally takes several months. First, the implant is placed into the jawbone, and a healing period of about 3-6 months is required for the bone to fuse with the implant (a process called osseointegration). Afterward, we place the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) on top of the implant. The exact timeline will depend on the complexity of the case and the number of implants needed.
Most patients report little to no pain during the dental implant procedure due to the use of local anesthesia. After the procedure, there may be some discomfort or swelling, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. If necessary, we also offer sedation options to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
With proper care, dental implants can last for many years—often 20 years or more. The implants themselves are durable, and the restorations (crowns, bridges, or dentures) can also last for many years with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Dental implants offer several advantages over dentures or bridges. They provide a permanent, secure solution that doesn’t require the removal or adjustment of surrounding teeth, as is the case with bridges. Implants also help maintain jawbone density, preventing bone loss that typically occurs with missing teeth. Unlike dentures, implants do not shift or cause discomfort and do not require adhesives.
After implant surgery, the initial healing period usually takes 3-6 months for the implant to integrate with the jawbone. During this time, you may experience some swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. After the implant is fully integrated, your dentist will place the final restoration. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery.
Dental implants are often partially covered by insurance, but coverage can vary depending on your plan. During your consultation, our team will work with you to review your insurance benefits and help maximize your coverage. We also offer financing options to make dental implants more affordable.
Taking care of your dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles, and visit our office for routine check-ups. Avoid chewing on hard objects or using your teeth as tools to prevent damage. With proper care, your implants will provide a durable and functional solution for years to come.
While dental implants are highly successful, there is a small chance that an implant may fail due to complications such as infection or poor bone integration. If an implant fails, we can discuss options for replacing it, including a new implant or other restorative solutions. The success rate for dental implants is typically very high, and we work closely with each patient to ensure the best possible outcome.