Medically reviewed on 7/12/2019 by Dr. Nassim Assefi
Dental Implants
A dental implant is an artificial replacement for the natural tooth root, usually made from titanium or other materials that are compatible with the body. Dental implants are the nearest equivalent replacement to the natural tooth. Unlike your natural teeth, implants are not susceptible to infections and decay. Your oral surgeon will perform a thorough dental consultation and assess your oral health to determine if you are eligible for dental implants.
The implant is placed directly on your jaw bone, and it provides a strong foundation for crowns, bridges or dentures, which are placed over it. Due to the strength and stability of the implants, the new teeth are fixed very firmly and make chewing feel as comfortable as your natural teeth.
Implant placement and its benefits
The procedure
Before the procedure begins, your dental professional will place you under local anesthesia. The dentist then surgically places the artificial root directly on the jaw bone. The bone fuses to the metal implant over several weeks or months — until then you might wear a temporary denture or bridge. As soon as the metal has fused with the bone, the next connecting piece is attached, and then the crown is fixed as well. You can read this article on implants by the American Dental Association to learn more about the implant process.
Benefits of dental implants
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 3 million people in the country have implants. Being a long-term and viable replacement for teeth makes implants a popular choice. Some of the most common advantages of implants include:
- Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. If cared for properly, they can last a lifetime.
- After the successful fusion of the jaw bone and the implant, it functions like a natural tooth root. Chewing is easy, as the implant feels natural.
- Implants can help restore your natural smile.
- Implants are easier to maintain than dentures, which means fewer visits to the dentist in the long run.
Common questions and answers about dental implants
What should you expect during a dental implant visit?
Your dental healthcare provider will perform a comprehensive dental evaluation to determine whether you're a good candidate for implants. The evaluation includes a dental exam, examining your dental and medical history, and imaging tests like X-rays. The X-rays help the practitioner determine the optimal position for the implant, how many implants can be placed and the quality of bone that is available.
Are you eligible for dental implants?
Not everyone is eligible to get dental implants. Ideally, a person must have good oral health and enough bone mass to support the implant. With implant placement being a surgical procedure, your overall health plays a crucial role in determining whether you qualify for the procedure. Chronic illness such as diabetes, and lifestyle habits like smoking can slow down the healing process after surgery. People with these conditions may not be good candidates for this procedure.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of getting dental implants varies significantly. Relevant factors include insurance coverage, choice of provider, and status as a new or existing patient. The base price of an exam typically does not include services such as X-rays. You can use this tool by Clear Health Costs to get an idea of how much an implant costs in your area. Generally, implant procedures are not covered by most (but not all) insurance providers. Check with your dental insurance carrier to see which dental services are covered and how often, and what your out-of-pocket costs are to get your exact costs.
How can you find nearby dentists?
At Zocdoc.com! You can book an appointment with top-rated dental providers who perform implant placements in your location. Booking is simple, secure and free! In any case, if you need immediate dental assistance, you can book an appointment with our emergency dentists right away!
Sources: American Dental Association
American Academy of Implant Dentistry
Cleveland Clinic
