Dental Implants to Replace Missing Teeth
If you are missing teeth, it is important to have them replaced because gaps in your teeth can lead to a number of oral health issues.
When a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may begin to shift out of place and cause misalignment issues. Misaligned teeth can be more difficult to keep clean and may even cause your teeth to not fit together properly, resulting in jaw joint pain. Missing teeth may also cause the health of your jaw bone to decline.
This is why it is important to offer solutions, such as dental implants, to help restore your oral health. The implant, typically made from titanium, acts as an artificial tooth root. It will be combined with a dental restoration such as a bridge or denture. These parts work together to restore your oral health and the function of your smile.
Replace Missing Teeth to Keep Your Jaw Healthy
Did you know that teeth are responsible for helping keep your jaw bone healthy? When you chew, it creates continual pressure that stimulates the jaw bone. If you've lost some of your teeth and can no longer chew effectively, your jaw bone will begin to break down gradually.
The Dental Implant Process
This dental process consists of multiple steps, completed in two or more appointments.
During the first visit, your dentist surgically places the implant into your jaw bone, beneath the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant bonds with the jaw bone and your gums attach to it. It can take three to six months for the dental implant to heal before the next step can take place.
During your next appointment, your dentist will attach a dental restoration such as a crown, bridge or denture. Your dentist will ensure that your new false tooth and your dental implant are working together correctly and that the restoration matches your existing teeth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Here, you can read some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Cityplace Dental Group.
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How long does a dental implant last?
When cared for properly, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. Proper care includes thoroughly brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once each day and attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
Other factors that can impact the longevity of your dental implants include nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
You will care for dental implants in much the same way that you would your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants and oral health.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain throughout the procedure.
Once the procedure is complete, there may be minimal discomfort, which should pass quickly. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days.
Many dentists recommend sticking to a soft food diet for the first few weeks after the implant surgery. This will help reduce any pain or inflammation that you may experience.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The dental implant process usually takes three to six months to complete. However, this timeline will vary depending on your overall health, how many teeth are involved and if you need extractions before the procedure.
You may also need follow-up visits to monitor the success of the treatment and discuss the comfort of your restoration. Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies cover the cost of dental implants, while others pay only a portion of the bill. Some companies and policies do not cover any part of a dental implant procedure.
Check with your insurance provider to determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance.