Q & A

A dental implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under your gum and directly into your upper or lower jaw bone. There’s usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the dental implant and your bone then fuse together, which creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant

There are numerous benefits of dental implants, including:

• Dental implants look and function like your natural tooth
• Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth
• Dental implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office
• Dental implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss
• Dental implants replace the need for a removable full or partial denture
• Unlike traditional bridges, dental implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing.

Thanks to major advancements in dentistry and dental implants, most people are candidates for dental implants. However, there may be a few exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.

The average dental implant procedure takes 3 to 4 visits. The first visit is to x-ray the area and take an impression for a surgical guide and a temporary prosthesis to cover the implant.

The next visit is to place the implant, during which local anesthesia is applied to the area (any additional sedation isn’t necessary unless deemed by your dentist). Next, your dentist will make a minor incision to place the implant and the implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area is then covered with sutures and the procedure is complete.

In about 3 months you will be able to get a crown to place over the implant.

The costs for dental implants vary. It’s essential to schedule an implant consultation to discuss the procedure and all of the fees involved.

A dental implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime with proper dental hygiene and home care.

Please contact us to discuss the financing options we have available and achieve your perfect smile today!