Dental Implants
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Dental implants are strong and durable and will last many years. On occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Reasons for dental implants:
- Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
- Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
- Restore a patient’s confident smile.
- Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
- Restore or enhance facial tissues.
- Support a bridge or denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.
If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most dental implant insurance policies pay for a portion of the procedure. However, one must note that the percentage varies with the policy you’ve chosen. For example, some policies cover up to 50 percent of the cost, while a few others may have increased coverage, covering up to 60-70 percent of the dental implant procedure cost.
A periodontist is a better choice than a general dentist for implant placements. However, on the other hand, you can also approach an oral surgeon for dental implants. Both of them can perform the implant placement procedure.
Dental implants last for an average period of 10-30 years.
The cost of dental implants in Texas with insurance ranges between $500 and $1500. You should also factor in additional charges of $500 to $1500 for abutment and crown. So, the average total cost of dental implants with insurance can fall in the range of $1000 – $3000.
The all-inclusive cost of a tooth implant in Texas without insurance is between $4000 and $6000. However, patients should check the specific cost of tooth implants in their case with the dental surgeon.
Dental implants last for 10-30 years.
Snap-on dentures aren’t as robust as natural teeth when it comes to biting and chewing. When the surgeons place implants under the existing denture, they help it remain in place. However, it doesn’t contribute much reinforcement to biting and chewing. Patients will have to eat softer foods cut into smaller pieces. On the other hand, All-on-4 implants provide natural chewing strength and capabilities. They comprise durable materials that replicate the shape and appearance of natural teeth.
The expected life of all-on-four dentures ranges between 20 and 25 years.
Appropriate care can help maintain the longevity and functionality of all-on-four dental implants in the long run. Accordingly, here are some tips.
- Maintaining oral hygiene – brushing teeth, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash
- Avoiding eating hard and sticky foods
- Undergoing regular dental check-ups
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy and balanced diet
- Safeguarding teeth against night grinding with a night guard
- Quitting smoking at the earliest
One cannot remove dental implants for cleaning as they are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. However, you can clean dental implants like natural teeth. Following regular hygiene practices like brushing and flossing can help maintain the health of the surrounding gums and keep infection at bay. Make sure that you use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent implant or restoration damage.
Mouth implants should be cleaned professionally twice a year.
Dental implants are fixed in place along the gumline. Hence, when positioned appropriately, food cannot get stuck underneath dental implants. However, one cannot rule this possibility out if the implants aren’t positioned correctly.
The cost of all-on-4 dental implants in Texas ranges between $20,000 and $50,000. However, case- and clinic-specific costs may vary. Call us at 903-583-7786 to explore more about our all-on-4 dental implant cost.
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