Dental Implants

Actually you don’t see a dental implant as it is down in your jaw. What you do see is the porcelain crown on the implant. The crown looks just like the rest of your teeth.

There is only one way to know if you are a candidate for dental implants. Placing an implant is completely dependent upon there being enough bone to put it in. We can check this by taking X-rays or a special 3D scan.

This is dependent upon where the implant is and if there are any potential complications. Many times the procedure is done in well under an hour.

Most of the time patients tell me all they needed was Advil after getting dental implants. The discomfort is usually far less than what most people anticipate.

After the implant is placed, we have to wait for the bone and the implant to join together. This will typically take a minimum of 4 months, sometimes 6. We then verify that things have healed and can begin making the crown.

Once your implant has been placed and the crown attached, you can treat your new implant supported tooth just like every other tooth you have.

The vast majority of people who get dental implants are extremely happy with their decision! Dental implants are tiny posts that you do not see or feel because they integrate into the jawbone just like natural roots. The purpose of this treatment is to restore the largest amount of natural form and function. Your dental health should not be adversely affected by having dental implants. On the contrary, we anticipate that you will enjoy newfound comfort and confidence after your treatment!

Dental implants are fixed restorations. They are titanium posts that Dr. Winters inserts into your jawbone. Once the bone grows around the implant or implants, they are not removable. Similarly, the artificial tooth or teeth that are affixed to your dental implants are also not removable. This is the value of dental implant treatment, that the resulting structure mimics that of your natural oral anatomy. After treatment, you continue to brush and floss as you normally would. You can eat all of the foods you normally would, and not have to worry about a loose or ill-fitting restoration causing discomfort or embarrassment.

Dental implants are intended to be permanent. That said, there are a few factors that may cause your implants to fail. Just like natural teeth, your dental implants will rely on healthy gums and bone density for stability and longevity. Provided that you take excellent care of your gum health and do not experience severe periodontal disease, you can expect your dental implants to last many, many years if not indefinitely.

The risks associated with dental implant treatment generally revolve around the procedure itself. Like other dental procedures, including tooth extraction and root canal therapy, there is a minor risk of infection after getting dental implants. There is also a slight chance that surrounding teeth or nerves could be damaged during the treatment process. These risks are very low. They are mitigated through the precise and careful use of dental techniques and also through diligent aftercare.

Dr. Winters may advise you to return for your dental implant about three months after you have a tooth or teeth extracted. This waiting period allows your gums to heal fully before the subsequent procedure. It also provides time to address infection, if necessary, which may have preceded your extraction treatment. Each case may differ slightly. During your consultation, you will receive detailed information that will allow you to make an educated decision about the timing and process of your restorative care.

Studies show that anywhere from 92% to 98% of dental implants make it to 5 years. From that point on, we find very few issues with implants. They can last many, many years.

This is always a case by case situation depending on location and complexity, but a good range is anywhere from $4000 to $6000. In our office that includes the crown, any parts needed and is all inclusive. If you see lower fees they typically do not include all the steps needed to complete your case.

Dental implants are used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth or even if you have lost all you teeth. Crowns. Bridges. Retained dentures. Lock in dentures. The uses for implants have entered almost every dental option there is for a missing tooth or teeth.

Once your implant has healed and been restored with your new tooth, it really is no different than taking care of your own teeth. Brushing and flossing everyday and seeing the hygienist on a regular basis to keep it clean is a must.

While dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, the next best option is a dental bridge. Bridges have been used for years to replace teeth and they are very reliable. Bridges done well can function for a long time and esthetically can be indistinguishable for natural teeth.