Today’s dentistry has come a long way. Porcelain dental implants make the dread and embarrassment of missing teeth a thing of the past.
Turn on the tv. You’re bound to see dental implant commercials praising the procedure as the champion of the big, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. This is true. However, if you’re considering dental implants, know that you are also committing to a lengthy, costly process. Is it worth it? Thousands of dental implant customers say yes.
A good implant candidate has
- One or more missing teeth
- A fully mature jawbone
- Adequate bone density to secure the implants or can have a bone graft
- Healthy oral tissues
- Good healing potential
Candidates are generally unable or unwilling to wear dentures and don’t smoke.
There are no quick fixes when it comes to dental implants. If done correctly, the process from the first surgery to the final implant can take as long as six months.
What to Expect
To control pain, anesthesia options during surgery include local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Talk to your dental specialist about which option is best for you.
The surgery is done on an outpatient basis in stages, with healing time between procedures. The process of placing a dental implant involves multiple steps.
- Damaged tooth removal
- Jawbone preparation (grafting), when needed
- Dental implant placement
- Bone growth and healing
- Abutment placement
- Artificial tooth placement
The entire process can take many months from start to finish. Much of the time is devoted to healing and waiting for new bone growth in your jaw.
Bone Grafting
If your jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, you may need bone grafting to create a more solid base for the implant. Graphs can be natural, from another area of your body, or a synthetic substitute.
Know the Risks
All surgery comes with risks. Dental implant surgery is no exception.
- Infection
- Damage to other teeth
- Nerve damage
- Prolonged bleeding
- Jaw fractures
- Bone loss
chance of failure
Cost
If you have already investigated dental implants, you know they are costly. A full mouth of implants can cost tens of thousands of dollars; single tooth replacements run between $2000 to $3000, depending upon the dentist. Reputable dentists will always have a sit-down and explain the cost, the risks, and less expensive alternatives such as bridges or caps.
The Douglas Family Dentistry Experience
Live in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or the surrounding communities? Douglas Family Dentistry offers a friendly, professional environment for patients from kids to adults and seniors. Considering implants? Let’s talk. Call us at 480-948-3680 or go to our website to schedule a free consultation.
