Dental Implants

Are dental implants covered by insurance?

Some dental insurance policies may offer at least partial coverage for dental implant procedures. A member of our team here at Thompson Center for Dentistry can help with questions about insurance coverage for this treatment.

Do dental implants look natural?

The ability of dental implants to look, feel, and function like natural teeth is one of the many benefits of this popular treatment. In fact, many patients find the results to be virtually identical to natural teeth.

How do I clean dental implants?

Cleaning dental implants involves the same basic process used to clean natural teeth. Aside from daily brushing and flossing, as well as attending the recommended amount of dental visits each year, there is no extra maintenance required.

How long does it take to get dental implants?

After the dental implants are placed, a process called “osseointegration” will begin. This is the process by which the implants should fuse to the jawbone, effectively becoming a part of the mouth, much like natural tooth roots. Osseointegration typically takes several months before it is complete; however, temporary crowns can  be placed on the implant posts during this time. Once Dr. Thompson has determined that the implants have successfully fused to the bone, she will affix the permanent custom dental crowns to the implant posts. Dr. Thompson will carefully examine the implants and crowns to make sure they fit comfortably, function like natural teeth, and meet your overall expectations.

Does smoking affect dental implants?

Smoking can have a significant effect on dental implants. Not only can smoking dramatically increase the risk of infection, but it can also extend the healing process. Given these risks, along with previous research that has found a possible link between smoking and implant failure, we recommend that patients stop smoking a minimum of one month before the dental implant procedure is scheduled. We also advise that patients develop a plan to ensure they do not resume smoking after the implants are placed.

Do I need to avoid certain foods with dental implants? 

One of the many advantages of dental implants is that most patients will not need to restrict what they eat once the healing process is complete. You should be able to continue eating your favorite foods; however, it is best to take some precautions with certain items. Biting down on hard foods (such as ice, popcorn kernels, candy, fruits or vegetables with solid pits, and others) can increase the risk of damaging the dental implant and the custom crown, so please be careful while eating those types of food. These precautions are necessary for natural teeth as well, so dental implants do not necessarily limit one’s ability to eat specific foods—they just require the same care!

How do dental implants feel? 

After the dental implant procedure is complete and your permanent custom crown has been placed, the results should feel virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Dental implants are designed to function and feel so identical to natural teeth (right down to the root) that it can be difficult to tell them apart from original teeth.

How successful are dental implants? 

The success rate of dental implants is remarkably high as long as the procedure is performed by skilled, experienced professionals who utilize advanced technology for implant placement. Additionally, the success of dental implants is dependent upon patients following all pre- and post-treatment protocols to ensure that the treated areas heal properly. With treatment by a qualified provider, adherence to instructions, avoidance of tobacco, and good oral hygiene maintenance, the chances that dental implants will be successful for years to come are greatly increased.

Do dental implants hurt? 

The dental implant procedure can be performed utilizing either a strong local anesthetic or other sedation dentistry options to minimize the potential for discomfort. Most individuals describe dental implant procedures as producing pressure sensations, rather than pain. Depending on the type of anesthesia utilized, some patients may experience a treatment that is quite relaxing and virtually anxiety-free.

Following the dental implant procedure, some degree of soreness in the treatment areas can be expected. This should dissipate in the coming days as the areas heal. Over-the-counter pain medication is often all that is necessary to relieve discomfort during this time.

When is it too late to get dental implants? 

Generally speaking, it is almost never too late for most individuals to get dental implants. Age is not usually a determining factor when it comes to evaluating candidacy for these procedures. In fact, one of the most important factors is whether the patient’s jawbone density is sufficient to securely accommodate a dental implant. Even in cases where jawbone density is lacking, a bone grafting procedure can often be performed to address that concern and adequately prepare the bone for a dental implant. Advances in the field of implant dentistry have made it possible for many patients—even some who have been previously told they are not candidates—to be successfully treated with dental implants. Dr. Thompson can evaluate your needs and determine whether this treatment offers a viable solution.

Are dental implants permanent?

Dental implants can serve as permanent missing teeth replacement solutions as long as proper care for them is maintained. The treatment is intended to provide results that last a lifetime, offering patients enhanced smile aesthetics and improved dental function long into the future. 

Can dental implants work with a complete or partial denture?

Yes, dental implants can work with partial dentures and complete dentures. Implants can be placed in areas that can help secure the denture and reduce the potential for movement along the gums. In some cases, patients who have already been wearing dentures for a long period of time and are considering the addition of implants for enhanced stability may have weakened jawbone density in certain areas. If jawbone density has been compromised, a bone grafting procedure may be necessary to strengthen the bone and improve its ability to securely accommodate a dental implant. 

What are some of the differences between a dental implant and a dental bridge? 

A dental implant requires oral surgery to anchor the implant to the jawbone. A permanent crown will eventually be securely affixed to the top of the post to create natural-looking tooth replacement. By contrast, a dental bridge does not require surgery. Dental bridges are designed to “bridge the gap” that has been left by one or more teeth in the same area of the mouth. Custom-designed artificial teeth are placed in the area of missing teeth, and two custom crowns are placed on the natural teeth that surround them. This helps reinforce and secure the bridge, allowing for results that look and feel like natural teeth. In some cases, dental implants may be recommended to provide even greater support, ultimately producing an “implant bridge.” 

Both dental implants and dental bridges can be effective treatments for missing teeth replacement. Our dentist can evaluate your needs and goals and help you determine the solution that’s best for you. 

Why do some dental implants fail?

Dental implant failure is not a common occurrence; however, it is not impossible for dental implants to fail in some cases. This can be caused by an infection that develops after the implant has fused to the jawbone, or another complication that stops the implant post’s full integration with the bone. Periodontal disease, smoking, poor oral hygiene, and inadequate bone density can create these kinds of complications. The risk of implant failure is very low as long as patients choose experienced dental implant providers who utilize advanced planning and placement techniques to complete the procedure, combined with strict adherence to pre- and post-treatment instructions designed to ensure the long-term success of the implants.

If you are considering your options to replace missing teeth, we encourage you to contact Thompson Center for Dentistry. A member of our team can address any concerns you may have or assist you with scheduling a consultation at our practice.