What are dental implants and how do they work?
A dental implant basically replaces a single tooth. It's not connected to any other teeth and you can treat it like a regular tooth in your mouth.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
A good candidate for dental implants would be somebody who has very minimal medical issues, good quality, solid healthy bone, and is very motivated on taking care of their teeth.
What is the difference between mini implants and full implants?
There are two different types of implants: mini implants and regular implants. A mini implant may be used to hold a denture in or on somebody who doesn't have much bone to be able to have the option for an implant in that area. A regular implant is for someone who has good quality bone and when height and width of bone is not a concern.
What is the dental implant process like from start to finish?
The dental implant process is guided using a 3D x-ray to help visualize where we're putting the implant, with everything pre-measured and pre-planned. First, the implant goes in and the area is covered with a little healing cap, left alone for four to six months to heal. After that, we check for stability. If the implant is stable, we take a scan of the area and the lab sends us back a piece that screws into the implant, along with the fake tooth that attaches, and everything is screwed together.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants will last as long as you take care of them. This means regular checkups and following your dental provider's recommendations. If they recommend a guard or a water flosser, using those things will help elongate the life of your implant.
What are dental implants and when are they recommended?
Dental implants are akin to a screw that fits into the bone if a tooth is missing. If you're missing a single tooth, two teeth, or several teeth, the implant serves as a root where your tooth used to be. It essentially acts as a gap filler for a missing tooth.
What conditions might disqualify a person from getting a dental implant?
The primary conditions include uncontrolled gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and smoking. Gum disease affects the foundation that holds your teeth in your mouth, uncontrolled diabetes can impact healing, and smoking increases the risk of dental implant failure.
What are the benefits and risks of dental implants?
The main benefit is the ability to chew normally. You can treat it like a regular tooth, without needing to clean underneath something or remove and insert it into your mouth. It's fixed and stable. Risks include gum disease around the implant if not properly cared for. Regular care and dental visits are crucial to prevent implant failure.
What are the different types of dental implants and dental implant procedures?
One type involves replacing a single tooth with just a single implant. Another common treatment is for a person missing all their top or bottom teeth. In such cases, a dental supported denture or an implant supported denture, which doesn't need to be taken in and out, is used.
How will a dentist decide if dental implants are right for me?
The main factors considered are whether there is enough room in the region and sufficient bone level. The decision is based on a case-by-case basis.
What are the steps to getting dental implants?
The first step involves getting a 3D scan x-ray of your mouth, followed by a 3D scan of your teeth. These two scans are merged to create a guide. The implant is then placed and left to heal for about four to six months.
What options are available for artificial teeth?
To replace teeth, three options are available. One option is a partial that can be removed and inserted into your mouth, another option is a dental bridge, and the third option is a dental implant.
How long does the dental implant procedure last?
The appointment to place the actual implant into the jawbone usually lasts about an hour or less.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Typically, it's not painful. We ensure the patient takes pain medication or gets pain medication and antibiotics to help prevent any discomfort or infection after the procedure.
What anesthesia options are available when getting dental implants?
Local numbing is always available. If the patient prefers to be sedated, we can make a referral for that.
Will dental implants last for the rest of my life?
Just like your own teeth, the lifespan of dental implants depends on how well you take care of your teeth and how regularly you come in for visits and checkups. Dental implants need maintenance and cannot be placed and then ignored.
What are the costs and financing options involved with dental implants?
The cost of dental implants varies based on your insurance coverage and the number of implants needed. We offer third-party financing options like Care Credit and Cherry.
Do most insurance plans cover the cost of dental implants?
Typically, insurance plans do not fully cover the cost of dental implants. There will be a copay regardless. Some plans may cover half or a certain percentage, but the exact coverage can only be determined after checking with your insurance provider.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk to a dentist about dental implants?
If you live in the Maryland area, you can visit us at Montpelier Family Dentistry in Laurel. To schedule an appointment, you can either call us or contact us through our website.
Dental implants are an excellent restorative solution for missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots in the form of titanium studs that anchor your artificial teeth and improve your tooth functionality. Implants have become a more sought-after solution than dentures, and many people are opting for the same. They are used for both restoration and cosmetic purposes.
We may carry out dental implant surgery on single or multiple teeth. In some cases, implants are also done on a full-arch denture. Implants solve your problem of missing teeth permanently.
What are the Types of Implants?
- Endosteal Implants
The procedure involves inserting an implant directly into your jawbone, where it acts as an artificial root and mimics the function and appearance of your natural teeth.
- Subperiosteal Implants
We use this type of dental implant to fix under your gum. We may recommend this procedure if you have a weaker jawbone or not enough space around your jawbone for the endosteal implants.
Why Do I Need Dental Implants?
- If you are struggling with biting and chewing food because of your missing teeth, placing an implant will solve your problem.
- Implants are a sought-after option to restore the appearance of your oral cavity.
- You may need an implant if you are not able to use dentures.
- Dental implants are a sought-after solution that prevents further deterioration of your jawbone.
How are Implants Placed?
During your appointment, we will carry out your X-ray and other scans to check the overall health and condition of your teeth. If you are suffering from decay or inflammation, we will remove such decay and then perform the procedure. If you do not have enough jawbone, we will perform a bone graft surgery before placing implants.
The first step includes numbing your mouth using local anesthesia. We will make a small incision in your gum to reveal your jawbone and place an implant into it. The implant will be secured in place using stitches, after which we will give your jawbone some time to heal. The healing period, also known as osseointegration, allows the implant to integrate into the jawbone.
After the healing period, we will install the abutment into the site of the surgery. The role of the abutment is to connect the implant with the dental crown. We will also take impressions of your teeth to create a dental crown. During your final appointment, we will place the crown and restore your tooth functionality.
To find out more about the dental services we offer at Montpelier Family Dentistry, Laurel, MD, call (301) 812-4599 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 14502 Greenview Dr #100, Laurel, MD, 20708.