Dental Implants

The cost of a single implant is between $3,000-$7,000. Still, it could go higher if complicated procedures are required to ensure that the treatment is successful. On the other hand, an all-on-4 implant can cost between $15,000-$30,000.

A dental implant is usually done in stages over a few months. It usually starts with several minor procedures and tests to ensure everything goes smoothly before committing to the surgery.

It starts with a pre-surgical appointment. The dentist does x-rays and scans on patients’ teeth to get a rough estimate and see if there are other problems like decay or issues under the gums (like inflammation). If you need a bone graft, it could add more weeks or months to the process.

Next is the surgery itself. First, the dentist will numb your mouth with local anesthesia. Next, the dentist will make a small incision in your gum using an electric drill to create space for the implant screw. It is quiet, so you likely won’t be scared or startled during this procedure. Then the dentist inserts and secures the new implants in place. Some stitches may need to be applied depending on the size.

When the implant is in place, it stimulates your jawbone to grow into and fuse with its surface. This process can take several months as roots do for natural teeth but will offer a solid base for your new artificial tooth. Upon completion of osseointegration, you will often need additional surgery to place the abutment – the piece where your crown will be attached. This minor outpatient procedure is usually done under local anesthesia.

When your gums heal, the dentist will make impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth. These are then used to create the crown – a realistic-looking artificial tooth. However, it can’t be placed until your jawbone is strong enough to support it.

The last stage is recovery. After the surgery, you will be given a complete list of post-operative instructions to follow. These may differ depending on the type of procedure performed and any necessary aftercare for preventative or therapeutic purposes.

You’ll have to stick with soft foods for a couple of days following the operation. It’s important not to neglect proper oral hygiene, like brushing your teeth carefully, as gum bruising can occur. 

When you have dental implant surgery, be prepared to experience some of the typical discomforts associated with any medical procedure. These discomforts include swelling in your gums and face, bruises on both skin and gums, as well as pain at the site where they place your tooth or teeth. You may also need pain medications and antibiotics. If anything worsens during the days following a dental implant surgical operation, contact your dentist immediately so they can help relieve these symptoms.

These are two types of dental implants:

 Endosteal implants are the most commonly used implant. They can be shaped like screws or may resemble a post. Once implanted into your jaw bone, you will need to wait for it to heal before undergoing a second surgery and connecting it with an artificial tooth (or teeth). Endosteal implants work best when your bone structure is broad and dense.  

When a patient has a shallow jawbone, the dentist will suggest having a subperiosteal dental implant. The implant is placed under the gum but right above the jawbone. The frame becomes fixed to your jawbones as you heal. The posts are attached to the frame protruding from the gums. Then artificial teeth are mounted onto those posts, just like how endosteal implants work.

Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. The success rate of an implant varies in relation to where the implant is placed, but, on average, it is usually around 95%.

The best way to care for dental implants are as follows:

First, it is important to practice excellent oral hygiene with your implant. Specially designed brushes like the interdental brush can help clean out all those nooks and crannies around the implants for a healthier mouth. 

Schedule your dental checkups to maintain the health and proper functioning of your implants. Also, follow recommended oral hygiene practices such as professional cleanings.

Avoiding habits like chewing on ice, hard candy or anything else that could break your crowns. Avoid tobacco and caffeine-containing products such as coffee. If you grind your teeth, you should get treatment to avoid future damage.