Dental implants are false teeth that can be used to replace a tooth that either had to be removed due to tooth decay or trauma to the mouth. Unlike partial dentures or flipper teeth, dental implants are surgically secured to the jawbone as a permanent tooth replacement.
A dental implant consists of a false tooth at the end of a metal rod that is anchored to the jawbone. After the dental surgery to install the implant, the jawbone grows around the metal rod which further secures the implant.
This procedure usually is not covered by dental insurance. People who have dental insurance should consult the policy or call the company to verify the coverage. A dental implant can cost approximately two thousand to three thousand dollars.
Some people choose to get a dental bridge as a permanent replacement for missing teeth rather than an implant. A dental bridge sometimes costs up to fifteen hundred dollars, but some dental insurance covers part of the cost of a dental bridge.
A dental implant procedure is not considered especially painful. Many patients who receive dental implants say they only experience mild discomfort during the dental implant procedure.
The anesthesia used during a dental implant surgery is either a local anesthetic or general anesthesia. Sometimes, people get several implants at the same time.
The patient should discuss the best way to get the implants if multiple implants are needed. Dentists who specialize in dental implants often have a limit as to how many implants they will do at the same time.
There are patients who use dental implants instead of dentures. These patients get implants for all the teeth on either the top or bottom jaw or both.
Getting a complete set of implants for both jaws is an extensive procedure that may require a healing time of up to six months before the dentist will insert the implants for the other jaw. Many people consider the procedure to be well worth the expense and time commitment in order to no longer have to wear dentures.
People who get implants often like this alternative to dentures because the implant feels much more like the natural teeth than dentures. Plus, the person does not have to deal with ill-fitting dentures, replacing dentures, or cleaning and maintaining them.
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for teeth implants. The procedure is not recommended for people who have diabetes or other chronic disorders that can pose a danger to someone undergoing surgery.
Heavy smokers may be discouraged from having implants. Since the tooth implant is anchored in the jawbone, the patient must have a jawbone that is healthy enough to support it.
Caring for teeth implants is much like caring for natural teeth. The false teeth obviously cannot get cavities, but regular brushing and dentist visits help maintain healthy gums.