Dental Implants to Replace Missing Teeth
If you have a missing tooth, there are several important reasons to have it replaced, beyond the aesthetics.
When a tooth is missing, it can not only impact the way you eat or speak but also cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of their proper position, leading to severe misalignment. This is why offering solutions, such as dental implants, is important to help restore oral health.
One way this can be accomplished is with the use of dental implants. A dental implant is a small titanium screw surgically inserted into the jaw bone. Over a few months, the screw will bond with the natural bone and, once healed, will function as a root for a tooth replacement option such as a crown or denture.
At Laurelwood Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of a healthy, functional smile and will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon in the Waterloo area for the implant procedure. Once healed, you'll return to our clinic for your permanent restoration.
Replace Missing Teeth to Protect Your Jaw Health
Your teeth keep your jaw healthy by applying pressure during chewing. Loss of teeth reduces this pressure, leading to gradual jaw bone deterioration, which can result in facial collapse and affect your ability to eat and talk.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process includes several steps. We start with an oral exam, followed by X-rays of your jaw and teeth.
If implants are suitable, we'll refer you to an oral surgeon who will surgically place them in your jaw bone. After surgery and healing is complete, we'll schedule an appointment with our team for the next step.
The final step in the dental implant treatment process involves securing the artificial tooth or teeth to the implant. These restorations could be individual crowns, bridges, or full dentures.
Together, these elements restore your smile, prevent teeth from shifting, address bite issues, and prevent jaw deterioration and facial collapse.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Laurelwood Family Dentistry.
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How long does a dental implant last?
A dental implant is designed to last a lifetime with proper care. This includes regularly brushing and flossing your teeth at home and attending routine hygiene cleanings and exams at a dental clinic.
Other factors, including nutrition, genetics, and the development of dental diseases, may also affect the longevity of a dental implant.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Taking care of your dental implant is just as important as looking after your natural teeth, and it's done in much the same way.
Regular dental visits and proper brushing and flossing at home help prevent decay and gum disease that can potentially harm your oral health and, by extension, your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, the dental surgeon will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the procedure, there is usually not much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
To prevent pain or irritation, it is also often recommended that patients eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
Depending on your treatment plan, the entire dental implant process usually takes three to six months to complete. Your dental surgeon can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
Here at Laurelwood Family Dentistry, our dental team can refer you to a surgeon who will perform the implant procedure. Then, once you have healed, you can return to our clinic for your permanent restoration.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while others will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't.
Speak with your insurance provider to determine your coverage regarding dental restorations and the dental implant process.