10 Things to Know about Dental Implants
Have you noticed your teeth shifting into that empty space at the back of your mouth? Maybe you are self-conscious about a missing tooth? Then it’s time to consider dental implants as a permanent solution. Once your implants have been fitted, they will feel comfortable and will look and function like your regular teeth.
10 Things to Know About Dental Implants in Westminster, MD
- What Are Implants?
When a tooth falls out, the implant acts as an artificial root. It is used to attach the new artificial tooth or crown. The implants are usually made from titanium metal and will be surgically placed into a patient’s jawbone.
- What Can You Expect During Surgery?
The dentist will examine your general oral health, jawbone and gums to determine if implants are right for you. This includes x-rays of your teeth, jaw and head. If you are a candidate for dental implants in Westminster, MD, you will be sedated or undergo local anesthesia. The dentist then drills a hole in your jawbone and places the dental implant in it. Your gum will be secured over the implant until it fuses to the bone. Complete fusion and healing takes between three – six months.
- Are Dental Implants Affordable?
The cost of dental implants will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, how many you require and the type of prosthetic tooth used. Before the procedure, check with us about a payment plan. We have several payment options to help make dental implants affordable for you.
- Do You Need Dental Implants Insurance Coverage?
All Smiles Care offers a dental protection plan that covers the cost of dental implants.
- Can Any Dentist Perform the Procedure?
No, it is a specialized surgery.
- Will You Experience Dental Implants Pain?
The drilling into the jawbone can be uncomfortable. Common symptoms after surgery include minor bleeding, swelling of the face and gums, pain at the site of the implant, bruising of the gums and skin. It is recommended that you eat soft foods for 10 – 14 days, post-surgery, to allow the gums to recover.
- What Are the Risks Associated with Dental Implants?
Rare complications include infection, bleeding, injury or numbness to the sinus activity or nearby muscles.
- What’s the Difference between a Bridge and an Implant?
A bridge is fixed where the new tooth is fixed into place by being attached to the two adjacent teeth. Bridges require less healing time and are less costly, but enamel has to be removed from adjacent teeth to avoid tooth decay.
Implants are an actual root replacement. The new tooth is fastened to the titanium implant and inserted into the jawbone. They don’t generally decay and are less likely to develop a case of gum disease. They are more reliable and functional, but require minor surgery, are costlier and take longer to heal.
- What Are Mini Dental Implants?
These newer implants are smaller and can be placed and loaded in a single day. It’s a less invasive procedure.
- Why Might I Need a Dental Implant?
Implants prevent bone loss, teeth from shifting and plaque from hiding out in unnecessary gaps.
Are You Considering Dental Implants?
Dental implants are for all ages. If you’re missing teeth due to defects, decay, injury or disease, this could be the option for you.
Find Out More About Dental Implants
All Smiles Care is happy to explain the procedure to you in detail. Give us a call today.
