Dental Implants: The Questions and Answers About This Innovative Treatment

Dental Implants: The Questions and Answers About This Innovative Treatment

December 1, 2021

Thus far, there is no tooth-replacement option that matches dental implants in Bayside, NY. They are versatile, practical, and a long-term solution to replacing missing teeth. We all know that nothing compares to having your natural teeth. But if you go for dental implants near you, you are a step closer.

What sets them apart is that they seek to replace the tooth root, a trait that no other treatment possesses. They are made from titanium and are the same size and shape as your root. As you know, titanium is a sturdy material, and more so, it can fuse well with the body without causing toxicity. The fusing of the titanium implant with your jawbone makes implants very strong.

So, How Is a Dental Implant Placed?

Before placing the implant, our dentist has to perform a thorough exam to determine whether you can undergo the teeth implants procedure. This means that CT scans and 3D images of your jaw will be taken to locate the nerves, sinuses, and jawbone depth.

This ensures that our dentist finds the right spot to place the implant, thus avoiding unnecessary complications. With modern dental implant technology, our dentist can find the exact position of safely placing the implant.

If you don’t have enough jawbone, our dentist will need to perform a bone graft to add more bulk to the jawbone. Bone loss can happen because of infection, previous dental work, and other health conditions.

Also, if your gum tissue is not enough, a gum graft will be performed to ensure there is enough gum tissue to hold the implant in place.

When the above has been done, then the implant can be placed in the following manner:

  • During surgery, anesthesia will be used to ensure that you don’t feel any pain. Then, our dentist will cut to open the gum to gain access to the jawbone.
  • Next, our dentist will drill holes in the jawbone where the tooth implant will be placed
  • Then, you will be given some time to heal and allow the fusing of the implant with the jawbone to occur
  • After healing is complete, you will undergo minor surgery to place the abutment. This piece links the tooth implant to the tooth replacement
  • You will go home and wait for your gums to heal before you get your teeth replacements
  • Lastly, you will get a crown, dentures, or a dental bridge; it all depends on your preferences

How Long Does It Take to Heal?

It will take approximately three weeks or more for you to heal after the teeth implant procedure. However, some patients will take a bit longer to heal, at times, even months. But this is not common, not unless you have an underlying condition or you use tobacco.

If you undergo any additional procedures such as bone grafting, sinus augmentation, and gum grafting, the healing time will be much longer.

However, there are some patients who’d opt for same-day implants. This means that the entire procedure is finished within a day. However, healing still has to occur, which means that the implant cannot withstand the chewing force for several weeks or even months. But, some people prefer this option.

Why Is Jaw Bone Health Essential?

Bone loss can happen due to several reasons, including osteoporosis, poor circulation, etc. But the common reason for bone loss is tooth loss. The jawbone is strengthened when you chew. So, when you lose your tooth, the jawbone begins to deteriorate.

This is where implants step in to prevent further bone loss. Severe bone loss will make your face seem pruned at the jaw.

How Successful Are Tooth Implants?

A tooth implant made from titanium has a 95% success rate for bone fusing and a functioning and healthy tooth implant for no less than ten years. But in most cases, the tooth implant will last much longer, even a lifetime.

However, the success of tooth implants is highly dependent on maintenance and care. Regular checkups will ensure that your implants are catered to.

What Are Some of the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants in Bayside, NY, come with some benefits, such as:

  • They are sturdy and durable and can last for many years
  • They preserve the health of your jawbone
  • They help maintain the facial integrity
  • They restore the looks and function of your teeth

How Much Does It Cost?

On average, the cost of tooth implants can range between $3,500 and $6,000 for a dental implant, abutment, and crown. However, most insurances might offer coverage for dental implants or cover part of the cost.

As you have seen, dental implants near you are worth your while. Contact us at Dental Expressions by Dr. Gary Bram if you need tooth implants.