![Dental Implants, Dartmouth Dentist](/files/dental-implants.jpg)
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
If a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may begin to shift out of place and cause alignment issues. The jaw bone around the area may also begin to deteriorate because of the lack of stimulation from the tooth root. This can result in a caved-in facial appearance and may negatively impact your ability to eat and talk.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made from titanium. They are placed in the jaw bone to stop teeth from shifting and to prevent bone loss by allowing the bone to grow and fuse around it.
A restoration, such as a crown or denture, is then permanently secured to the implant. With both of these in place, you should be able to eat and speak as you did when you had your natural teeth. They can also help maintain the structure of your jaw bone and prevent deterioration.
The Dental Implant Process
During your initial consultation, one of our dentists will assess your oral health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. If you are, they will discuss their treatment plan and answer any questions you may have.
The implant is surgically placed at the next appointment. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and involves inserting a titanium post into the jaw bone to serve as a foundation for the artificial tooth.
After the procedure, a healing period is necessary to allow the implant to fuse with the jaw bone. This generally lasts between three and six months.
Once healing is complete, you will return to our office so a crown or denture can be fitted on top of the implant. Our dentists take great care to help ensure that your dental implant is the right fit.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Alderney Dental Group.
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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 hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office. It’s also important to follow all the post-procedure instructions from your dentist.
If you have any pain or discomfort for afterwards, around seven to 10 days following the procedure, please call us right away.
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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.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments, brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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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. Placing the dental restoration may add some time, as it may take a few appointments to get the fit just right.
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, some will only pay for a portion of the cost and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.