Hi there, I'm Dr. Jacobs. Dental implants have become one of the most popular and reliable solutions for replacing missing teeth. However, many people still have questions about the procedure, benefits, and what to expect before, during, and after getting implants. If you are considering dental implants or are simply curious about them, you're not alone. In this video, I'll be answering some of the most common questions about dental implants to help you make an informed decision.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are essentially a replacement for a missing tooth. They can replace a single tooth and are often considered a screw that goes into the bone where the tooth used to be. For instance, if you were to break a leg or an arm, your surgeon would use titanium screws to hold the bone in place while it heals. It's the same concept. A dental implant is a specially designed titanium screw that fits where your tooth used to be, effectively giving you your tooth back. With that implant, you can then attach screw-retained crowns, dentures, or partials. It's similar to a Lego system—once you have an implant in your bone, you're set, and many things can be done with them.
When are dental implants recommended?
Dental implants are typically recommended after you lose a tooth, if you want to improve or replace your existing dentures, or if you want to replace or improve your existing dental bridge.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants?
Dental implants have both advantages and disadvantages. A major advantage is that your dental implant can never get a cavity. However, this doesn't mean you can neglect brushing and flossing to keep your implant clean. It's crucial because dental implants can still develop disease, such as bone disease. When someone has disease around their teeth, it's called periodontitis. There's a specific term for disease around implants—implantitis. You can lose your implant if you don't maintain its cleanliness. So the advantage is no cavities, but the disadvantage is that you still need to care for it diligently.
Why is medical history important for dental implants?
Your medical history plays a critical role when it comes to implants. We need to ensure you're able to heal after the implant is placed. This involves a comprehensive examination of your mouth and a review of your medical history to confirm your ability to heal your bone. If all checks out, you are certainly a candidate.
What is guided surgery for dental implants?
Dental implants have evolved tremendously over the years. One of the most significant advancements is the use of guided surgery. Guided surgery involves taking records like an X-ray and scans of your mouth. The surgery is then performed virtually on the computer as if you were present. The advantage is that we can examine your jawbone with the three-dimensional X-ray and precisely place the implant where it needs to be for the crown. So when you come into the office, the surgery is essentially complete. We use a surgical guide, which is a retainer with a hole for the drills, ensuring the correct depth and orientation as planned with the 3D imaging.
What if I have no bone for dental implants?
One of the most common concerns is, what if there's no bone? It's crucial that the implant goes where it needs to be, especially if you're planning to replace a single tooth. If you lack bone where the tooth should be, we need to create bone. This is where a bone graft becomes essential. We create the bone so that the implant can be placed precisely where it's needed.
How is the recovery process after dental implants?
The recovery process after a dental implant is typically quick. There's little to no pain afterward because, believe it or not, there are no nerve endings in the bone, so you will feel no pain. We do need to numb the gum, and often the pain is mild to minimal. Most people recover within a few days.
How long do dental implants last?
The longevity of dental implants is an important question. It's not just about the implant itself, but also about who maintains it. Once placed, it's in an environment the dentist cannot control. If you brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly, your implant can last a very long time, if not a lifetime. Conversely, the same implant in a person who neglects their oral hygiene may not last long.
Do insurance plans cover dental implants?
Most insurance plans do not cover the cost of dental implants. However, this is changing. Sometimes they will cover the crown that goes on the implant or even the screw that goes into the bone. It all depends on your specific insurance plan. Some plans do cover it, but most do not.
If you're considering dental implants, it's essential to have a consultation with a qualified dentist to fully understand your options. Remember, each person's journey is unique, and a professional can guide you through the process step by step. We hope this video has answered your questions and helped you feel more comfortable about dental implants. If you still have questions, don't hesitate to reach out or schedule a consultation with us. You can call us at (951) 904-3164 or find us at riversidecenterforestheticdentistry.com. Thank you.
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.
Evaluation for Dental Implants
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental / radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either Dr. Jacobs or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.
Surgical Advances in Dental Implants
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Jacobs is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between a periodontist and a restorative dentist. Dr. Jacobs performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (Dr. Jacobs) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Dr. Jacobs will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jaw bone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.
After the dental implant has bonded to the jaw bone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Dr. Jacobs can then start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.