Dental implants are one of the best options for replacing missing or damaged teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth, and can restore your smile and confidence.
However, dental implants require significant investment and commitment of time and care. In addition, they can aggravate existing oral health issues, so they are not suitable for everyone.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium screws surgically placed in the jaw bone to replace missing or damaged teeth. They are used to restore full function and beauty to the smile, just like natural teeth. They also look better and don’t need to be removed or cared for differently, unlike dentures.
Patients who want to receive implants must have the all-clear from their dentist and undergo a number of tests, such as x-rays and a CT scan, to find out if they have enough healthy bone left in their jaws. If not, a bone graft may be required to build up the density.
In addition, patients must be committed to regular visits and oral hygiene to ensure that their gums heal properly after surgery. They must also avoid activities that may cause damage to the implant, such as smoking and chewing hard foods or ice. People with chronic illness or who take medications that suppress the immune system should also consult their doctor before undergoing dental implants winter park fl.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root replacements. They are fabricated from titanium, which is biocompatible and compatible with the body. Dental implants fuse to the jaw bone over time, creating a stable foundation for tooth replacement. They can restore natural bite function and a confident smile. They are also more secure and comfortable than dentures.
The implant process starts with a consultation with a dentist who specializes in it. They will examine your mouth, take x-rays and ask about your medical history to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Some people aren’t suitable for it, including pregnant women, patients with chronic illness and those who take drugs such as bisphosphonates. This is because the drug may affect how your jaw bone heals. However, alternatives such as dental bridges and dentures are available for those who can’t get implants. Those who do have them should treat them like their real teeth and stick to a regular oral hygiene routine of twice-daily brushing and flossing.
Are dental implants painful?
Dental implants are one of the best options for tooth replacement. They look and feel just like real teeth, and they won’t shift or fall out. However, dental implants winter park FL require surgery, and surgeries always carry some risks. Luckily, an experienced dental professional can minimize pain and discomfort through sedation dentistry.
Most dental implant patients report that their pain is temporary, and it will fade within a few days after the procedure. However, persistent pain may be a sign of a complication. If you experience pain that lingers or gets worse, contact your dentist immediately.
While dental implants are highly successful, they do have the potential to develop problems that can lead to pain near the replacement tooth. This can occur if you don’t care for your implants properly, including failing to brush and floss regularly. It can also happen if you smoke or drink alcohol, or if you suffer from an infection like gum disease or peri-implant disease.
Are dental implants covered by insurance?
Dental implants are a state-of-the-art solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They look and feel like natural teeth, while also helping maintain the health of your jawbone. Dental implants can prevent bone loss, and are a long-term treatment that doesn’t require re-fitting or maintenance as do dentures.
While many dental insurance plans cover the cost of dental procedures, they often limit or exclude dental implant costs. This is because dental implants are considered a cosmetic procedure, similar to veneers or tooth whitening treatments.
In addition, many dental insurance policies have annual coverage maximums and deductibles that must be met before they begin covering your dental implant cost. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help patients offset these out-of-pocket expenses. For example, some dental clinics offer financing options that allow patients to pay for their implants over time. Additionally, individuals can use flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) to cover the cost of dental implant procedures.
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