What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small metal screw placed beneath the gums during a minor surgical procedure, taking the place of a natural tooth root. It is completed with a restoration, such as a dental crown, to look and feel like a real tooth.
Considering dental implants is an important decision. If you’re unsure what to expect, we’ve outlined the process here to help you make an informed choice about your treatment.
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Why You Might Need Dental Implants
Your teeth are essential for preserving your smile’s shape, eating comfortably, and speaking clearly.
When a tooth is lost, it can lead to the shifting of surrounding teeth, increasing the risk of further dental issues. Even a single missing tooth can trigger a chain of problems affecting your oral health, appearance, and quality of life.
One key concern is bone resorption, which occurs when your body breaks down bone tissue due to the absence of teeth. Teeth help stimulate bone growth by applying pressure on the jaw. Without them, bone tissue gradually deteriorates, leading to a shortened jaw and chin, and causing facial changes such as wrinkles or sunken cheeks.
Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. They can help prevent or reverse the complications of tooth loss, offering a long-term solution for maintaining both function and appearance.
What To Expect When Getting An Implant
The implant procedure is typically more comfortable than expected.
Assessment
First, you’ll have a consultation to evaluate whether implants are the right option for you. Your dentist will use X-rays and a 3D cone-beam CT scan to assess your bone condition and create a treatment plan. Additionally, a scan or impression of your teeth will help determine the best implant placement.
Insertion
An anesthetic will numb the area to ensure you’re comfortable. The dentist then makes a small opening in your gums and bone to place the implant post. In some cases, sutures may be needed to close the site.
Healing
After the procedure, you’ll allow time for the implant to heal. At your follow-up visit, your dental restoration will be ready, and the final implant will be installed, leaving you with a fully functional tooth.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
The Cost of An Implant In Wellesley
In Wellesley, the price of a single dental implant typically ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 or more. Full-mouth reconstructive implants can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $60,000 or higher, with a complete set of implant-supported dentures averaging around $30,000. Due to the complexity of the procedure, it’s impossible to provide an accurate quote over the phone.
Several factors affect the cost of dental implant surgery, including:
- The type and number of implants required.
- The materials and supplies chosen.
- The expertise and experience of the dental team.
- The location and complexity of the procedure.
- The duration of your recovery, with continuous support throughout.
Since every case is different, it’s essential to have a consultation and oral exam. This helps us evaluate your needs and offer tailored treatment options along with a more accurate cost estimate.
Are There Other Solutions For Missing Teeth?
For gaps caused by 1 to 3 missing teeth, a dental bridge may be an option. For more extensive tooth loss, dental prosthetics or removable dentures may be recommended. When comparing the costs of dental implants to other options, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks.
Dental implants, while requiring a higher initial investment, are more secure and durable than bridges or dentures. Removable prosthetics need special care and may require adjustments or replacement over time. In contrast, implants are cared for like natural teeth, with regular at-home oral hygiene and dental check-ups. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
No one will be able to tell that you have implants instead of natural teeth. The metal posts are hidden beneath your gums, and the lifelike restorations that cover them blend seamlessly with your natural smile.
Implants and dentures serve different purposes and function in distinct ways. Dentures sit on top of your gums and put pressure on the bone, while implants are anchored beneath the gums to reinforce your bite. Each option has its advantages, so we recommend scheduling a consultation to determine which is best for your needs.
If dental implants aren’t suitable for you, other options such as dental bridges or full or partial dentures may be a great alternative for replacing missing teeth. Contact us to arrange a consultation where we can discuss the most appropriate solutions for your specific needs.
To qualify for an implant, you must be an adult in good oral health, with a strong enough jawbone to support the implant. Healthy gums and tissues are also important to reduce the risk of complications. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact us for an evaluation. We can often improve your oral health to make you a candidate for implants, or explore alternative tooth replacement options.
Your implants will be custom-designed to match your natural teeth in both shape and colour. Whether they are crowns, bridges, or used to support dentures, they will blend perfectly with your existing teeth and align with your bite. Most patients find it difficult to distinguish their implants from their natural teeth.
Thanks to advancements in dental implant technology, the procedure is now very reliable and relatively painless. We perform the surgery with care and precision to minimize discomfort. Post-treatment care helps to limit swelling, and bleeding is usually minimal. If you have any concerns or feel anxious, let us know, and we’ll make sure to address them.
Most patients can return to work the day after their implant surgery. Once your treatment plan is in place, we’ll provide you with a more specific recovery timeline and inform you if any extra time off is needed. We’ll review all post-operative care instructions to ensure you’re well prepared.
Maintaining your implants is essential for their long-term success. Like natural teeth, they require regular professional cleaning and check-ups. Typically, we recommend appointments every 6 months, though this may vary depending on your unique needs.
Care for your implant just like a natural tooth. This includes regular brushing and flossing, routine cleanings, and check-ups. If you experience any issues, make sure to inform your dentist promptly.
