What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
At Covington Family Dental, we recommend restoring missing teeth with dental implants because of the benefits this treatment has to offer including:
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More Like Natural Teeth: Other restoration methods can provide teeth, but having a tooth restored with a dental implant will feel and operate much more like a natural tooth.
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Better for Bone Health: When a tooth is lost, so is the connection with the jawbone. All of our bone is constantly under construction, when motion is lost in an area the bone pulls back resources from that location and the bone immediately begins to atrophy. This includes our jawbone. Dental implants reestablish that connection to the bone keeping it healthy.
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Better Oral Health: Missing teeth can be damaging to our bite, and our use. Gaps from missing teeth leaves room for neighboring teeth to shift out of alignment, and cause force changes in how we chew or what we can chew. Missing teeth is damaging to our oral health.
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Improved Facial Shape: Sagging in the face is a characteristic we have come to think of with aging, it is actually from missing teeth and bone loss. We can restore your teeth and strengthen bone helping you look younger and fresher. |
Placing your Dental Implant
The
placement of one of more dental implants is a minimally invasive procedure that can be completed in our office. Much of the work is completed in the planning phase, which may include
gaining control of gum disease and growing new bone following a bone graft procedure.
Placing the implant itself is the easy part. With the preparatory work completed, and a treatment map in place, we simply numb the area with a local anesthetic then open the tissue to expose the bone.
We use a dental drill to create the space needed in the bone and then sink the implant. The tissue is then sutured closed and the patient is sent home for a period of healing.
The soft gum tissue will heal quickly, within a handful of days, but the bone tissue will take several months. During this healing phase, the bone is growing up and around the implanted device around the threads.
As the bone osseointegrates with the implant, the implant is becoming increasingly firm in your mouth. Once healed, the implant is now a firm post in the bone that we can use to stabilize a prosthodontic device such as a dental crown, bridge or denture.
Implant Supported Dentures
Your denture can be permanently stabilized in your mouth. Dental implants have allowed us to dramatically upgrade the wear and use of dentures. There are multiple options for stabilizing a denture using implants, including:
All on 4 Dental Implants
The
All on 4 treatment is sometimes referred to as a full arch dental bridge. We secure a full arch of teeth directly to the bone using at least four dental implants for a permanent hold.
The All of 4 is not removable, once in place it will remain there. This is a great option for many patients requiring dentures, it is the closest way to feel like your teeth are your natural teeth.
The All of 4 treatment does not require growing new bone before they can be placed because it uses longer implants that are placed in such a way to be sunk in denser bone. This means that we can provide you with a full arch of teeth in one office visit.
Implant Supported Dentures
In addition to All on 4, there are other implant supported denture options that allow the freedom of being removable when you want them to be. This may be preferred for patients with greater medical needs.
The ball retained implant denture uses a snap on and off function allowing the patient to snap their denture on and off. The bar retained implant denture utilizes a bar system that allows the patient to latch their denture on and off as needed.
Both options provide a secure denture that will not shift, rock or come loose when worn correctly, with the option to remove the denture as desired.
Same Day Dental Implants
Teeth-in-a-Day, also referred to as one-day dental implants or same-day teeth implants, permanently replace damaged or missing teeth. These implants are unique because with the technique used you don't have to schedule several appointments with us to get them. Instead, you can come into our office for fewer visits and gain your smile back that much quicker.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most of our patients are candidates for dental implants. The primary requirement before surgery can be completed is if the patient can heal at an appropriate rate.
There are a number of medications, health complications, and other impairments such as smoking that can impact someone's ability to heal. We are happy to discuss these problems and more with you during your consultation, the solution may be simple.
FAQs
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a sturdy foundation for permanent or removable replacement teeth that are designed to match your natural teeth.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people who have lost a tooth or teeth are good candidates for dental implants, provided they have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. Patients should also be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
What is the process of getting dental implants?
The dental implant process typically involves several steps: initial consultation and planning, implant placement, healing period (osseointegration), abutment placement, and finally, the attachment of the replacement tooth or crown. The entire process can take several months to complete.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are crucial to ensure the longevity of your implants.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are a safe and well-established treatment for replacing missing teeth. They have been used for many years with a high success rate. The materials used are biocompatible and designed to integrate with your bone and tissue.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants offer several benefits, including improved appearance, speech, and comfort. They function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence. They also help preserve your jawbone and facial structure by preventing bone loss.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard objects and consider using a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
What is the cost of dental implants?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the type of implant, and any additional procedures required. It's best to consult with your dentist for a personalized estimate based on your specific needs.
Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients report that dental implant surgery causes only mild discomfort. Local anesthesia and sedation options are available to ensure a comfortable experience. After the procedure, any pain or discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance coverage for dental implants varies. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered under your plan.
Schedule an Appointment for Dental Implants
If you are around Covington, WA and looking to find out more about dental implants, please
fill out our appointment form or call us at
253.499.6155 today!
