What Are Dental Implants?

In the past, the only options to correct a missing tooth were bridges and dentures. However, today, dental implants are used to replace a missing tooth for a natural-looking smile. Dental implants are used to replace missing tooth roots and provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth that are made to look like your natural teeth.

What are The Benefits of Dental Implants?

While dental implants are used to improve the appearance of your missing tooth, they are also associated with many other benefits. These include:

  • Improved speech- Dentures that fit poorly can cause trouble with speech. Implants allow you to speak clearly without the worry of dentures slipping.
  • Improved comfort- Because implants are permanent, you don’t have to worry about denture discomfort.
  • Improved self-esteem- Dental implants can help you feel confident in your smile again.
  • Easier eating- Dentures can slide and make eating difficult. Dental implants can make eating easy!
  • Convenience- Because dental implants are permanent, you don’t have to worry about messy adhesives to keep them in place.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people who are healthy enough to undergo oral surgery are candidates for a dental implant. Your gums should also be healthy, and you should have enough bone to hold the implant in place. The best way to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khan.

How is a Dental Implant Placed?

The first step to placing a dental implant is to create an individualized treatment plan. Once this plan has been drawn up, a tooth root implant will be placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. This small root implant is a post made up of titanium. The jawbone will then heal around the implanted metal post, which can take 6-12 weeks.

Next, a small connector post called an abutment is attached to the post to hold the new tooth in place. This new tooth will be made through an impression, which creates a model of your bite. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is attached to the abutment. Dr. Khan will match the color of your new tooth to your natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell that you have a dental implant.

Are Dental Implants Painful?

Because local anesthesia is used during the dental implant procedure, most people experience mild discomfort from the procedure. After the procedure, mild soreness is common, and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications.

If you are missing a tooth or teeth and are in need of a dental implant, contact our office today. We would be happy to schedule your consultation with Dr. Khan.

The Dental Implant Process

The process for dental implants take place over several months:

Consultation – This 45-minute appointment is an opportunity to understand generally what your current condition is, what treatment options exist, and how you might choose to go about and start treatment.

Evaluation – Each patient starts their treatment with a comprehensive evaluation from Dr. Khan. The dentist will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth and determine if dental implants are right for you. It is important that you have adequate bone structure to secure the implant in place. Dr. Khan will create a personalized treatment plan.

Implantation – The dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed into the bone serving as the root of the prosthetic tooth. Strategic planning is crucial to the long-term success and comfort of the final restoration, and unfortunately, this is overlooked by many inexperienced doctors. Sometimes the restoration of the implant can be performed right away, and other times it requires healing up to 4 months. If necessary, you will be provided with a temporary tooth (or teeth) during the implant healing phase.

Implant Restoration – Once the dental implant has completely healed, your final restoration whether it is a single crown, multiple crowns, dentures, or fixed hybrid can be fabricated.

After Care – Many patients say that they forget they have a dental implant. The dental implant will look and function the same as natural teeth and you will be able to floss and brush the dental implant normally. Routine visits to the dentist will be important to ensure long-term health and function.

How Quickly Can I Get A Replacement Tooth?

After your thorough dental exam, Dr. Khan will help to determine what your best missing tooth treatment option will be. IKON Dental Group, offers a SINGLE DENTAL IMPLANT for one missing tooth and MULTIPLE DENTAL IMPLANTS for more than one missing tooth. After surgery, the dental implant typically requires 3 to 6 months to fully integrate with the jaw bone before we can secure the permanent restoration. The Dentist may be able to provide a temporary crown while the implant heals.z

Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

Each patient starts their treatment with a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Khan will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth and determine if qualify for dental implants. It is important that you have adequate bone structure to secure the implant in place. You should also be healthy overall. Most patients will qualify for dental implants. If you have suffered bone lost, Dr. Khan may recommend bone grafting to ensure the success of your dental implant.

Will I Have to See a Specialist?

It depends as not all implant cases are the same. Dr. Khan may choose to place the implant in our office or you may be referred to a specialist for placement of the implant. If referred for placement of an implant, you will return back to Dr. Khan for final restoration and follow up. Every step of the way, Dr. Khan will ensure quality and cohesive care. Our dental care team will handle your insurance, consultation, surgery and recovery if applicable, and the bonding of the final restoration.

Does My Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Each patient’s DENTAL INSURANCE is unique and coverage will vary depending on the plan. It’s important for our patients to know that treatment coverage varies from one dental insurance provider to another. As a service to you, our staff will happily submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so that you will know what your benefits will cover. Not many dental insurance plans will cover dental implants. Some insurance plans will partially cover the dental fabrication such as the DENTAL CROWN or the DENTURE.

Do Dental Implants Require Special Care? 

Dental implants require no more maintenance or care than your natural teeth. Implants, like your natural teeth, depend on healthy gums and surrounding tooth structures for support. It is essential that you brush and floss regularly and visit Dr. Khan at least twice a year for dental cleanings. Regular and diligent oral hygiene should keep your dental implant healthy for a lifetime of smiles.

How Much Pain Will I Feel After The Dental Implant Procedure?

There is generally little to no discomfort following the dental implant surgery. IKON Dental Group office staff will call in any necessary prescriptions in advance to prevent swelling and discomfort.

How Long Does a Dental Implant Last?

If cared for properly, a dental implant can last a lifetime. It’s important to visit Dr. Khan twice a year for a routine dental health exam. Also, if you have any issues with your dental implant, you should call for an appointment to have it looked at.