What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. They are a popular and effective solution for people who have lost teeth due to injury, periodontal disease, or other reasons. Dental implants are made of titanium and other biocompatible materials and are surgically placed into the jawbone where they fuse with the bone over a period of several months. This creates a strong and stable foundation for the attachment of the replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime and are a great option for restoring your smile and improving your oral health.
Why A Dental Implant?
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing or damaged teeth because they provide a long-lasting, durable solution that closely mimics the function and appearance of natural teeth. Unlike other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges, dental implants are anchored into the jawbone and integrate with the surrounding bone tissue, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth. This allows for comfortable chewing and speaking and can improve overall oral health by preventing bone loss and shifting of surrounding teeth. Additionally, dental implants are often preferred for their aesthetics, as they can be custom-made to match the color and shape of surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless, natural-looking smile. Replace the roots of your teeth.
Dr. Goehring will discuss your health history and case, and help you decide if implants are the right option for you.
Placement of a Dental Implant
Step 1: Consultation
Step 2: Implant Placement
A small connector post, called an abutment, is attached to the post. The abutment is used to secure the new tooth.
Step 3: Completing Your Implant
Once your new tooth or bridge is in place, they will look and feel just like your natural teeth. This is because they are anchored to the jawbone and securely attached to the abutment.
After Care
Implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth and the placement of bridges. They should last a lifetime with proper care. Continue to brush and floss daily and keep up on your regular dental checkups.
They can give you back your smile and provide you with a natural feeling and looking solution to missing teeth. Call or contact our office today if you have any questions about dental implants. For additional information, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants last for decades and can even last for a lifetime. They’re created from high-quality, durable materials that integrate naturally with your jawbone. Implants keep your jawbone strong, making you less likely to lose other teeth.
Taking proper care of your dental implants helps them to last longer. Luckily, dental implants don’t require much special care — just brush and floss them as if they’re natural teeth. We do recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle floss, and non-abrasive toothpaste so you don’t scratch your implants.
How much do dental implants cost?
Your insurance coverage also plays a role in how much your implants will cost for you. Many insurance providers cover at least part of the cost of dental implants — we recommend contacting your provider for the details of your coverage.
If you’re concerned about affording dental implants, we can help you. Our office accepts a variety of payment options and offers financing plans through CareCredit®. You may be able to break your treatment costs down into affordable monthly payments.
How do you take care of your dental implants after the procedure?
While caring for your dental implants on a daily basis is easy, proper post-operative care is essential for the success of your implant. While your dental implant surgical site is healing, avoid using a straw, be gentle when spitting, and eat soft foods.
Dr. Goehring will provide detailed care instructions for after your surgery and also for daily care.
Are dental implants safe?
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement solution that also keeps your jawbone strong. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone eventually begins to disintegrate and weakens — this endangers the rest of your teeth and makes you look older. Implants prevent this from happening.
Does insurance cover my dental implants procedure?
Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of dental implants, but your coverage may vary. To find out the details of your dental implant insurance coverage, we recommend contacting your insurance provider.
Our office can help you find a payment option that suits you if you call us at (512) 892-8822. We accept a variety of payment options and we offer financing through CareCredit®. With a financing plan, you can pay for your dental implants in affordable monthly installments.
What do I do in the event of a complication with my dental implants?
If you encounter a dental implant complication, call our office as soon as possible by dialing (512) 892-8822. We can set up an appointment with Dr. Goehring so he can examine your implant and diagnose the issue.
Complications with dental implants are rare because the procedure is highly successful. But if you feel tingling in your mouth or lips, numbness, an infection, or sinus issues, there may be a problem. Dr. Goehring can help you through these complications.
Dr. Goehring can deliver the stunning results you expect.
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