What is a Dental Implant?
It is important to replace a missing tooth to prevent the remaining teeth from shifting, which can lead to misalignment and even issues with the jawbone itself.
During the dental implant procedure, a small titanium screw is surgically implanted into the jaw bone. This screw will eventually bond with the bone and the gum tissue, serving as a durable and long-lasting anchor for a tooth replacement.
Not only do dental implants fill in the gap left by one or many missing teeth, they can also resolve bite issues, jaw joint pain, and help restore facial tissues and appearance.
Why Replace Missing Teeth
If a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may shift out of place, leading to issues with misalignment. The jawbone around the area may also begin to decline, which can result in facial collapse, or negatively impact your ability to eat and talk.
The Dental Implant Process
Your dentist at Cranbrook Family Dental will assess your oral health to determine if dental implants are suitable for you.
To start, your dentist will surgically place the implant into your jawbone below the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant will bond with the bone and attach to the gums.
Typically, it takes three to six months for the implant site to heal. Once healed, you will return to our office for a final appointment.
At this appointment, your dentist will attach a tooth replacement, such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture, to the implant to restore the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Cranbrook Family Dental.
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How long does a dental implant last?
An implant that has been cared for properly can last a lifetime. This care includes brushing and flossing at home, as well as regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
Other factors, such as nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases, can affect the longevity of a dental implant.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for a dental implant is like caring for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home 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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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During the dental implant procedure, your dentist will administer anesthesia so you won't feel pain.
Afterward, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid irritating the site.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
Depending on your treatment plan, the entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete.
Your dentist can provide a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurances companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.