If you have missing teeth, you may be wondering what your options are for replacing them. Your three primary choices are dentures, a dental bridge, or dental implants. While a severely decayed or damaged tooth can often be restored with a large filling or a crown, missing teeth need to be replaced in order to prevent further damage to your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Dr. Weissman offers all types of restoration and replacement procedures, including one of the most popular: dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
In basic terms, dental implants are artificial replacements for the roots of missing teeth. They offer superior stability and comfort compared to dentures and dental bridges. Overall, getting dental implants will provide you with better chewing function, improved speech, and a more natural facial appearance.
Implants are essentially anchors for missing teeth which resemble screws or cylinders and can be installed in either your upper or lower jaw. While an implant acts as the roots of a missing tooth, a crown is typically attached to an implant to serve as a functional and natural-looking replacement tooth.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Unlike dentures, dental implants don't require adhesives, are not removable, and don't need to be anchored to adjacent healthy teeth. At Weissman Dental, we surgically place them directly into your jawbone, where they will typically remain covered for three to six months to allow the bone to regenerate around them to help stabilize replacement teeth.
Once sufficient bone mass has developed, we will uncover the implant(s) and attach an extension, which is known as a post. At this point, your gum tissue at the treatment site needs to heal, which can take several more weeks or months.
Once this healing is complete, your implants are ready to serve as anchors for your tooth replacement(s), which is typically a crown. Remember that the entire process can take anywhere from five to nine months, depending on your unique situation and recovery time. We will provide you with specific instructions about how to care for your dental implants, which you should follow carefully for the best results.
How Effective Are Dental Implants?
The success or failure of your implants will depend on several factors. However, with skillful installation and proper care, dental implants are one of the most effective replacement options for missing teeth.
For the best treatment outcomes, having good overall health, healthy gums, and ample bone mass plays significant roles. In addition, where the implants are located in your mouth can affect their success.
Depending on these factors, dental implants are typically about 90% successful, sometimes more. You will have more success with your implant procedure if you don't smoke and don't grind your teeth at night. In addition, patients with osteoporosis or diabetes often experience bone loss in their jaw, increasing the risk of complications. Lastly, poor oral hygiene can result in impaired healing or infections.
Dental Implant FAQ's
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with good general and oral health are candidates for dental implants. Adequate bone density in the jaw and healthy gums are essential. A consultation with your dentist will determine if dental implants are the right option for you.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants offer several benefits, including improved appearance, speech, comfort, and oral health. They are durable, can last a lifetime with proper care, and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without worry.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The dental implant process typically takes several months from start to finish. This includes the initial consultation, placement of the implant, healing time for osseointegration (where the implant fuses with the jawbone), and placement of the crown. Each patient's timeline may vary.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
The dental implant procedure is generally well-tolerated with local anesthesia to numb the area. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure. Post-surgery, any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a high success rate, typically around 95-98% when placed by a skilled professional and with proper care. Factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions, and poor oral hygiene can affect the success rate.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. This includes regular brushing and flossing, routine dental check-ups, and avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the implants. Good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and ensure longevity.
Are there any risks or complications with dental implants?
Like any surgical procedure, dental implants carry some risks, such as infection, injury to surrounding teeth, and nerve damage. However, these complications are rare, and your dentist will take precautions to minimize them and ensure a successful outcome.
Can dental implants be done for multiple missing teeth?
Yes, dental implants can be used to replace multiple missing teeth. Depending on the situation, a single implant can support a crown, or multiple implants can support bridges or dentures, providing a stable and durable solution for missing teeth.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary based on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the complexity of the case, and any additional procedures required, such as bone grafting. During your consultation, your dentist will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss payment options.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Coverage for dental implants varies by insurance plan. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not. It's best to review your specific insurance policy and discuss coverage options with your dental provider.
Your Portland, OR Dentist Offers Dental Implants
If you've experienced tooth loss for any reason, it's important to address the issue with some form of replacement procedure to avoid serious problems in the future. Weissman Dental is here to help you decide if dental implants are the right solution. Give us a call at (503) 274-2222 to schedule a consultation.
