Gresham Dental Implants
Dental implants are an increasingly popular method of replacing damaged, lost or broken teeth. A dental implant uses a titanium post, to act as the root or foundation for a replacement tooth. The post is surgically implanted into the jawbone of the patient, and then a crown is attached to the post.
Benefits of Gresham Dental Implants
At Main Street Dental, we favor the use of dental implants, where appropriate, because they offer a number of different benefits to our patients. Unlike a denture, for instance, a dental implant rarely if ever comes loose, and they are much better for oral health because they do not need to be anchored to other teeth, which can cause other issues. An implant will not become uncomfortable over time, due to a shrinking jawline, something that can and does happen to dentures. In fact, similar to natural teeth, dental implants will stimulate the jawbone, and prevent any bone loss, which can change the shape of your mouth.
Did you know…
that approximately 30 million people live with no natural teeth in one or both jaws? But more and more dental patients are opting for dental implants as a means of tooth replacement. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that 3 million people currently have dental implants – a number that is rapidly growing by about 500,000 per year. Modern titanium implants were first developed in the 1950’s, but archaeologists have determined that ancient Egyptians and Mayans were the first cultures to implant artificial teeth.
Gresham dental implants are not suitable for everyone though; before we will even contemplate dental implants, you must have healthy gums, and adequate bone density which is capable of supporting the implant. This is because the implant procedure requires a substantial foundation, so if your bone density is too thin, or soft, then dental implant surgery may not be an appropriate solution.
Gresham Dental Implants FAQ
Q: Are Dental Implants Painful?
A: Many people are put off getting Gresham dental implants because they imagine that having a metal post surgically implanted into your bone, would be very painful, but nothing could be further from the truth. The procedure is carried out in our offices, under general anaesthetic, and at most, our patients complain of mild discomfort.
Q: Will I Have To Take Time Off Work To Recover Following The Fitting Of The Implant?
A: Having a dental implant fitted is the same as day surgery, so most people will be able to return to work the day after, without experiencing any problems or issues. In the unlikely event that you experience any mild discomfort, we will prescribe medication to reduce the pain.
Q: How Long Does The Procedure Take?
A: The process for each tooth takes anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes. Factors that can increase the time of the operation include the number of implants being fitted and the location of those implants.
Q: I Have Read About People Not Having Enough Bone To Support A Dental Implant If This Is The Case What Are My Options?
A: Although a solid foundation of bone is critical, should your bone density not be of sufficient quality, then all is not lost. In some of these situations, we can consider a graft, which once completed would then enable us to move forward with dental implants.
Q: Do I Get My New Teeth At The Same Time As My Implant?
A: Your new teeth are not fitted at the same time as your implant. This is because we want to give the implants time to integrate and embed themselves in your bone correctly. While we wait for that process to happen, we will provide you with temporary teeth until it is time to add your permanent new teeth. Every patient will have a different prognosis for recovery, so your dentist will be able to provide you with a much more accurate estimation for this question.
Q: Do I Need To Do Anything Special To Care For My New Implants?
A: The short and simple answer to this question is no!. Treat your implants as if they were your natural teeth. Wash them thoroughly twice daily, floss properly and ensure that you visit the dentist twice yearly, to have your teeth properly checked. By following these simple guidelines, your new implants should last for many years.
Q: What Is The Lifespan Of Dental Implants?
A: Provided that you look after your implants, there is no reason why they cannot last a lifetime. There are many implanted teeth, which have been in place for over 40 years and counting, and technology has improved since those were first inserted.
Q: Dental Implants Seem Like An Expensive Option, How Does Their Cost Compare To Other Dental Treatments?
A: This is a popular misconception, and the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. Although it is fair to say that there is a higher initial cost, once fitted dental implants are low maintenance and many of our patients tell us that their dental implants have drastically increased their confidence. Compared to traditional dental options, the long-term value offered by dental implants far exceeds conventional dental treatments.
Q: What Is The Likelihood Of All Or Part Of The Procedure Being Covered By My Insurance?
A: As a provider of high-quality dental treatment, we are not party to the terms and conditions of different insurance policies. However, in the past, certain insurance policies have covered at least part of the process. If your insurance does not provide coverage, and the cost is an issue, then we offer many different finance options, ask our friendly receptionists, for the relevant information.
Q: Are dental implants right for me?
A: You may qualify for dental implants if you have missing, broken or severely decayed teeth and are in relatively good overall health. The only way of determining your eligibility for implants is to consult with an oral care provider to identify whether you have adequate bone support and healthy gums that will support the new tooth structure.
Q: What should I expect if my dentist and I decide dental implants are right for me?
A: The placement of dental implants is a multi-step process that typically takes between 6 and 9 months to complete. It begins with a surgical procedure during which a titanium rod is placed where a previous natural tooth root once was. The gums are sutured shut over the implant, where is will stay for several months while it heals and begins fusing with the surrounding bone. Due to the nature of implant placement and its average procedure time of between 1 and 2 hours, you’ll be sedated and/or anesthetized for the duration of the treatment. At the conclusion of the healing period, you’ll return to be fitted for permanent crowns and have them placed.
Q: What type of post-treatment care will I require?
A: It is normal to experience some discomfort, including bruising and swelling following a dental implant procedure. However, inflammation and pain may be managed with over-the-counter medications, hydrocodone, or codeine. You may be asked to eat only soft foods for approximately 2 weeks until the surgical site heals.
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