What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that functions like a natural tooth root. Implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth.
The implant is surgically placed into the jaw bone and then integrates with the natural bone to serve as an anchor for tooth replacement.
Dental implants can help to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, improve bite issues or jaw joint pain, and help restore facial tissues and appearance.
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.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process requires a dental implant (titanium screw) and a tooth replacement.
Your dentist will begin by surgically placing the implant into your jaw bone below the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant integrates with the bone.
Once the healing is complete, generally three to six months post-surgery, patients return to our office to complete the process.
At this stage, your dentist will have a custom tooth replacement fabricated, such as a dental crown, bridge or denture, to create the look and function of a natural tooth. This will be attached to the dental implant to produce the final result.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Centre Dentaire St-Onge.
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How long does a dental implant last?
If you care for your implant properly, it can last a lifetime. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending regular dental hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors, including medical conditions, nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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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?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the procedure, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six 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?
Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.