What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that is placed in the jaw to replace a missing tooth. It acts as a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
Through a process called osseointegration, the implant gradually fuses with the jawbone. Healing can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the quality of the bone and the type of restoration planned.
Placing an implant is generally a minor procedure, similar to a tooth extraction. Beforehand, your dentist will perform an exam to make sure your gums are healthy and that there is enough bone to support the implant.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift out of place, causing misalignment. The jawbone may also break down over time, which can affect your facial shape as well as your ability to chew and speak effectively.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The dentist makes a small incision in the gum to position the implant, which gradually fuses with the bone as it heals.
After three to six months, a second appointment is scheduled to attach the final restoration, a crown, bridge, or denture, restoring both the look and function of a natural tooth.
Once in place, regular check-ups, ideally once a year, are important to ensure your implants stay healthy and secure.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Espace Dentaire Pur.
-
How long does a dental implant last?
If you care for your implant properly, it can last a lifetime. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending regular dental hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors, including medical conditions, nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
-
How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for a dental implant just like you care for your natural teeth.
Regular dental hygiene visits and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
-
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Placing a dental implant takes about an hour and is done under local anesthesia, ensuring a pain-free procedure. Post-operative sensitivity varies from patient to patient, but it is generally well-managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
After surgery, it is recommended to eat soft foods for about two weeks to minimize discomfort and support healing.
-
How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
-
Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Depending on your insurance plan, the cost may be fully or partially covered. To find out if your dental implant treatment is covered, contact your insurance provider.