One of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years, dental implants employ state-of-the-art materials and procedures that will have your smile looking like new. An extremely effective way to replace missing teeth, implants provide a viable and comfortable long-term option for most patients.
Dental Implants
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of a titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone, and function as anchors for replacement crowns. The bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration–a process in which the bone grows around the implant and holds it in place.
Most dentists prefer to wait several months before attaching the implant crown to make sure the post is completely integrated into your bone. Your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to wear until the post is secure and the permanent crown is ready for insertion.
Some say that the root canal is painful but with the local anesthetic applied you generally feel no pain. The majority of the pain is what you experience from the wait of getting the infected or decayed tooth removed. After the root canal the dentist will use a crown or filling for protection. You can go back to chewing, biting and no one will notice the difference.
Are Implants Right for Me?
You must have healthy gums and adequate bone structure to support your dental implant. If the bone is too thin you may require a bone graft, which must heal and attach completely before the post is placed in your jawbone. It is worth the wait, as implants provide very stable support and feel and function like real teeth.
A conventional bridge is attached to teeth on either side of the space left by your missing tooth. These adjacent teeth must be ground down to hold your new replacement tooth in place. With dental implants, no other teeth are affected.
What Does an Implant Look Like?
For a single-tooth implant, a customized crown that is designed to look just like your other teeth will be inserted and screwed onto the implant post . Your dentist will take moulds and compare color to achieve the perfect size, fit and shade.When replacing multiple teeth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be fabricated to fit your mouth precisely.
How much will my implants canal cost?
From start to finish, implants are often more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, and may cost up to $4,000. Insurance companies typically cover less than 10% of the cost. With your Dentalsave membership, you can receive 25% off the cost of your implant; giving you a savings of up to $1,000.
If you have missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures, talk to your dentist to see if dental implants are right for you.
ADA Code Procedure Regular Fee DentalSave Fee D6000 - D6199 Implant Services varies 25% off
Will I need additional or special care after my implant?
If you think you need an implant, consult your dentist. There are a number of steps that occur over a few office visits. Before or after your implant, you can expect to receive x rays and more.
Discounts on root canals and other related procedures are included in all dentalsave memberships.