What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that acts as a stable foundation for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Implants provide support for crowns, bridges, or dentures, helping to restore the function and appearance of natural teeth.
These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a permanent solution to missing teeth.
Dental implants can be recommended for patients who have lost teeth and want to maintain proper bite alignment, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, support jaw health, or restore the structure and appearance of the face.
Based on your oral health and personal needs, your dentist can explain whether a restoration supported by a dental implant might be appropriate for you.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
If a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may begin to shift out of place and cause misalignment issues.
The bone around the area may also begin to deteriorate, resulting in loss of support for the adjacent teeth and could lead to further tooth loss.
Dental Implant Restoration Process
Dental implant treatment involves two main stages: the surgical placement of the implant and the restorative phase that replaces the visible tooth.
The dental implant process begins when an oral and maxillofacial surgeon places the implant into your jawbone.
Over the next several months, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone to create a strong and stable foundation.
Once this healing stage is complete, the team at Noftall Family Dentistry in New Glasgow provides the restorative portion of treatment by attaching a custom crown, bridge, or denture.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Noftall Family Dentistry.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, a dental implant restoration can provide long-term function and support. This includes regular brushing and flossing at home, along with routine dental hygiene visits and exams at your dental office.
The long-term success of an implant restoration can also be influenced by factors such as overall health, nutrition, genetics, and the presence of dental conditions. Your dentist can provide guidance on maintaining your implant restoration and monitoring your oral health over time.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for a dental implant just like you care for your natural teeth.
Regular dental hygiene visits and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The surgical placement of a dental implant is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. During the procedure, anesthesia is used to keep patients comfortable. Some mild discomfort or swelling may occur afterward, which is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication as advised by the surgeon.
Patients are usually recommended to follow a soft diet for a short period after surgery to support healing and reduce irritation. Once the surgical site has healed, patients return to our office for the restorative phase, where the replacement tooth or denture is attached to the implant.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process can take anywhere from three to nine months to complete, depending on your treatment plan. 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?
Coverage for dental implant treatment varies depending on your insurance plan. Some providers may cover the full cost, others may cover only a portion, and some may not provide coverage at all.
To understand what portion of your dental implant restoration, if any, is included under your plan, it’s best to contact your insurance provider directly. Your dentist or our office team can also help provide the necessary documentation for insurance claims.