Dental implants are the highest quality option for tooth replacement. They replace the entire tooth structure, including the root and the crown, providing a natural look and function
If you have one or more teeth that need to be replaced, you may be considering dental implants. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to getting dental implants from Meadows Dental Associates.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed in the jaw. It fuses with the bone and acts as an anchor for a dental prosthetic, such as a crown, bridge, or dentures. A single dental implant replaces one missing or severely damaged tooth. When multiple teeth need to be replaced, implant supported bridges and dentures are anchored in place by anywhere from 2-6 implants.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The advanced quality of dental implants is based on the following benefits:
- Superior function. Once a dental implant fuses with the bone, the bond is extremely strong, providing secure support for the dental prosthetic, allowing for chewing function that rivals a natural tooth.
- Natural look. Dental implant restorations are anchored in the jaw like your own teeth, providing a natural look.
- Maintains oral health. Replacing teeth with dental implants keeps your other teeth in proper alignment. It also preserves the health and structure of your jaw bone, preventing resorption (bone loss).
- Lasts a lifetime. Dental implants are expected to last for 30 or more years, but most last for the rest of your life.
The Dental Implant Procedure
If you decide to get dental implants, and once you are determined to be a good candidate, you can expect the placement procedure to consist of 3 steps:
- Placement of the implant(s). The first step is to surgically place the dental implant(s) in the jaw. This can be done with local anesthesia in most cases, but sedation is available upon request. Guided placement technology is used to ensure accuracy for a successful outcome.
- Addition of the abutment. A few months later, once the implant has had sufficient time to fuse with the jaw bone, the abutment can be added, the post that connects to the dental prosthetic.
- Attachment of the prosthetic. A few weeks after the abutment is attached, your permanent dental prosthetic can be attached, completing your restoration.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
To be a candidate for dental implants you simply need to have one or more teeth that need to be replaced. If you have teeth that are severely decayed or damaged and need to be extracted you may be ready for dental implants soon after the extraction procedure. If one or more of your teeth have been missing for a while, such as months or years, you may need some preparation before you are ready for dental implants. Bone loss in the jaw is common for teeth that have been missing for longer than a few weeks, but bone grafting can usually encourage regeneration of lost bone tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Are dental implants covered by insurance?
The answer to this question used to be no, but in recent years dental insurance providers are beginning to recognize the oral health benefits of dental implants and providing coverage. You may need to upgrade to a more advanced or comprehensive plan that includes dental implant coverage.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
When dental implants are placed by an experienced dentist with the help of guided placement technology, they have a 98% success rate. The success of dental implants also depends on the patient’s willingness to follow instructions for follow up care and oral hygiene.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today
Do you think dental implants may be the right tooth replacement option for you? Schedule a consultation with Meadows Dental Associates of Sarasota to get the process started.
Call 941-377-3659 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.