Dental implants are an excellent option for replacing teeth, but how do they actually work? The process may sound confusing or more intense than it actually is. You might have questions about teeth implants and what makes them a good tooth replacement option.
At Pickens Family Dentistry, Dr. Drue Pickens and the rest of the team are proud to provide a variety of dental implant services to patients throughout the Vancouver area. As part of our implant dentistry options, we also want to educate patients on dental implants and ensure they get the dental care results they want.
Find out more about how dental implants work or reach out today to get your questions answered!
Understanding the Dental Implants Process
In most cases, the dental implant process happens in two parts. Here are the basics of the dental implant process:
- The implant is placed: During this first step of the process, the implant, which is a titanium post, is surgically added to the jawbone. Then, it’s left to heal and fuse with the jaw over a period of a few months. This is done under anesthesia.
- The replacement tooth is placed: After healing, a permanent replacement tooth, usually a crown, is placed atop the implant. Then, the dental implant process is complete, leaving you with a beautiful smile.
In some cases, a mini-implant or temporary replacement tooth is added until a permanent replacement is offered. Some patients also qualify for same-day tooth replacement.
Preparing For Dental Implant Placement
Before you go in for your dental implant appointment, you’ll see our dentist and oral surgeon for a consultation. During these visits, they will determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. They may suggest other dental care beforehand, especially if you have jawbone loss.
For most patients, after the consultation, you’ll set up an appointment to place the implant. Before this process, you’ll receive basic instructions on how to prepare and what to do after the surgery. Get started with your FREE consultation by calling our office today!
Dental Implant Surgery
During the dental implant procedure, the post of the implant is placed. This post acts as an artificial tooth root on which the replacement tooth goes. Because the implant is similar to an actual tooth root, it creates a strong, stable foundation for a replacement tooth.
The surgery is performed under anesthesia and pain management, so you can trust that the process takes your comfort into account. The recovery from surgery should be fairly painless, needing only over-the-counter medications if there is some achiness.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants compared to other replacement tooth methods is that they last so long. While other options, like traditional bridges, only last around 5–15 years, tooth implants usually last a lifetime.
Implants are a great choice, as you won’t need to get repeated procedures throughout your life. Dental implants also look and function the same as the natural teeth in your mouth!
What Kind of Dentist Places Dental Implants?
Dental implants are placed under the careful care of oral surgeons or periodontists. At Pickens Family Dentistry, we partner with an experienced oral surgeon for all of our tooth implant surgeries.
Oral surgeons have training with oral surgery but also using local and general anesthesia. Our oral surgeon will keep you comfortable while doing the implant procedure. Learn more about how this process works by contacting our office today!
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on many factors. If you only need one implant, it will be cheaper than if you need multiple. Some dental insurance plans will also cover part or all of the dental implant.
If you have questions about the cost of dental implants, give us a call. We are happy to help you figure out your options!
Set Up Your FREE Visit Today!
Still wondering how dental implants work and if they’d be right for you? Dental implants can restore your mouth and smile. With a free consultation just for you at Pickens Family Dentistry, you can see if dental implants are the right restorative dentistry option for you! For quality dental implant placement, contact our office today!
