What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a replacement tooth. The implant itself is more like a replacement root that goes below the surface and anchors in the bone. Once that's in and solid, we attach a connector and then a tooth on top of it. The implant is below the surface and the tooth, which we call a crown, comes later. When it's completely finished, you have the anchor in the bone, which is the implant, and the tooth on top that chews our food.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
The good candidate for dental implants can be of all walks of life and most ages, as long as you are not still growing. Medically, you have to be stable, with no bleeding disorders. The ideal candidate would be anyone who has a missing tooth or a tooth that isn't doing so well that they want to replace, and who doesn't want something removable or a bridge.
How much do implants cost, and does insurance cover the cost?
The cost for implants can vary, depending on the condition of the bone that anchors it. A straightforward implant can cost a couple thousand dollars. The tooth on top of the implant is usually charged separately, and the total price is commonly around $5,000 or $5,500. If there's a need for a bone rebuild due to damage or insufficient bone, the cost can increase.
Indeed, there are various scenarios where a tooth needs to be extracted, and the area must be prepared and healed before beginning the implant process. This is why an initial assessment of the current dental condition is crucial. It helps us determine whether the process will be straightforward with predictable costs, or if it will require more extensive work, including a potential rebuild phase.
However, the specific needs and the extent of the preparatory work can only be ascertained through a thorough examination. We advise patients to come in for a consultation to assess the condition of their mouth. Questions like, "What does the area look like? Is it suitable for implants?" are essential. If the situation allows, we aim to expedite the process, avoiding unnecessary steps to directly proceed with the implant placement.
In some less common cases, we might need to undertake a rebuild phase first. This could involve bone grafting or other preparatory procedures to ensure the area is ready for a successful implant. The key is to address each patient's unique needs, providing the best possible outcome for their dental health.
Can implants be placed at the same time a tooth is extracted?
Yes, it's becoming more common to place the implant at the same time the tooth is extracted. It saves time and combines two surgeries into one. The success rates have been almost the same with immediate implants as delayed implants.
That's an important consideration. If your tooth and the surrounding bone are stable enough to support an implant, or if they can be rebuilt during the surgery, it's definitely worth considering the placement of the implant at the same time as the tooth extraction. This approach can be more efficient and beneficial in the long term. During your consultation, it's crucial to discuss this option with your dentist.
What are the steps to complete an implant?
The steps to complete an implant start with placing the implant into the bone. Once it's solid and stable, we attach the tooth on top. The surgery step could involve removing an old tooth, rebuilding the bone, placing the implant, and letting it heal. After that, we uncover the implant, ensure it's solid and stable, and then connect the tooth part.
When can I start using my dental implants?
The answer lies in the completion of the initial healing phase. Once we attach the tooth and ensure that the bite is correctly aligned and everything is securely connected, your implant will be fully functional at that point. You will be able to enjoy it, chew the food you desire, smile, brush, floss, and treat it just like your natural tooth. So, these are the comprehensive steps that transition you from having a missing tooth to having a successfully completed dental implant.
What is the success rate for dental implants?
The success rate for dental implants is around 95%. It's not uncommon to expect your implant to last 10, 20, or even 25 years. There's nothing inherent in an implant that goes bad or deteriorates, so it's not uncommon for an implant to last your whole entire life.
Should I have my tooth extracted first and then wait until the area seals before I get the implant?
I would recommend getting the consultation for the implant while the tooth is still present. One of the main drawbacks to removing the tooth first is atrophy of the bone. When a tooth is missing, leaving an empty space in the jaw, the bone tends to shrink both in height and width, resulting in less bone mass. This shrinkage becomes more pronounced over time. Therefore, even if a tooth is not in perfect condition and may need extraction, it's advisable to consult about a dental implant while the tooth is still in place. If feasible, the implant can be placed immediately after tooth extraction. This method is often more predictable because it benefits the bone in that area, preventing atrophy over time.
Opting for an immediate implant helps avoid the bone loss typically seen with delayed procedures. While it's possible to first extract the tooth and then place the implant, it's generally not the better approach. More commonly, placing the implant at the same time as the extraction—an immediate implant—is preferred.