Dental Implant
At Implant & Perio Center of Kansas, we specialize in providing state-of-the-art dental implant treatments to help restore your smile and improve your overall oral health. Dental implants are a reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. This comprehensive guide will help you understand more about dental implants, the process involved, candidacy, success rates, costs, and frequently asked questions.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They act as artificial tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants have gained popularity in recent years due to their natural appearance, durability, and high success rates.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Improved appearance
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing your smile and facial aesthetics. The replacement teeth are custom-made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, providing a seamless integration with your smile.
Better speech
Secure implants prevent slipping dentures and allow for clear speech. Traditional dentures can sometimes move or slip while speaking, causing slurred speech or discomfort.
Enhanced comfort
Dental implants fuse with the jawbone, eliminating discomfort associated with removable dentures. The implant integration with the jawbone provides a stable foundation, reducing the potential for irritation and sore spots.
Improved oral health
Implants preserve the jawbone and prevent further tooth loss by stimulating the bone, preventing the bone resorption that often occurs after tooth loss. They also make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, as they can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth.
Types of Dental Implants
Endosteal
The most common type, placed directly into the jawbone. These implants are typically made of titanium and shaped like small screws, cylinders, or plates. Endosteal implants are suitable for patients with healthy jawbone and gums.
Subperiosteal
Placed under the gum but above the jawbone, typically for patients with insufficient bone density or those who cannot wear traditional dentures. Subperiosteal implants consist of a metal framework that fits over the jawbone, with posts that protrude through the gum to support the prosthesis.
Mini dental implants
Smaller in diameter, suitable for patients with limited bone structure or those who require a less invasive procedure. Mini dental implants can be used to secure dentures, crowns, or bridges and typically involve a shorter healing time.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process involves several stages and generally takes several months to complete. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure:
Consultation and evaluation
Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. This may involve taking X-rays, CT scans, or 3D imaging to assess bone density and plan the optimal placement of the implants.
Treatment planning
A personalized plan is created, considering factors like the number of implants needed, the type of prosthesis to be used (crown, bridge, or denture), and any additional procedures required, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts.
Implant placement surgery
The titanium implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort. The gum tissue is then sutured over the implant, allowing it to heal and integrate with the bone.
Osseointegration (bone healing)
The implant fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which typically takes 3-6 months. This crucial phase allows the implant to become a stable and secure foundation for the replacement tooth. It’s essential to avoid putting excessive force or pressure on the implant during this healing period to ensure successful integration.
Abutment placement
Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector (abutment) is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as a support for the replacement tooth, connecting it to the implant. In some cases, the abutment can be placed at the same time as the implant, eliminating the need for a second surgery.
Crown placement
After the abutment has been placed and the gum tissue has healed around it, the custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment. Your dentist will ensure that the prosthesis fits perfectly and matches the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and functional result.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Candidates for dental implants typically have good oral health, adequate bone density, and healthy gums free of periodontal disease. Common reasons for needing dental implants include tooth loss due to decay, injury, or gum disease.
Patients with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, may still be candidates for dental implants but should consult with their dental professional. These conditions can affect the healing process and the overall success of the treatment. Smokers are also at a higher risk of implant failure due to impaired blood circulation and slower healing. Quitting smoking before and during the implant process can significantly improve the chances of success.
Success Rates and Longevity
Dental implants have a general success rate of around 95%, making them a highly reliable tooth replacement option. Factors affecting success include patient health, dental hygiene, implant type, and the skill of the dental professional performing the procedure.
To prolong the life of your dental implants, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, attending routine dental check-ups, and avoiding smoking or tobacco products. With proper care, dental implants can last for decades, providing a long-term solution for missing teeth.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on factors such as the number of implants, materials used, and any additional procedures required, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts. In general, dental implants can be more expensive than other tooth replacement options, but they offer long-lasting and natural-looking results.
Insurance coverage for dental implants varies; consult with your insurance provider to determine your benefits and any out-of-pocket expenses. At Implant & Perio Center of Kansas, we understand that the cost of dental implants can be a significant investment, and we are committed to making the treatment more accessible. We offer financing and payment plans to help patients manage the costs associated with dental implants.
Dental Implant FAQs
How long does it take to recover from dental implant surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing response. Most patients experience mild discomfort for a few days after surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. Complete healing and osseointegration typically take 3-6 months.
Can dental implants be removed?
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution. However, in rare cases where an implant fails or needs to be replaced, a dental professional can remove it. The removal process will depend on the specific situation and condition of the implant.
Do dental implants require special care?
Dental implants should be cared for like natural teeth. Brush and floss daily, and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Your dental professional may recommend specific oral hygiene products, such as interdental brushes or water flossers, to help maintain implant health.
Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?
Periodontal disease should be treated and controlled before receiving dental implants. Healthy gums are essential for implant success, as gum disease can lead to bone loss and implant failure. Your periodontist will work with you to address your gum health before proceeding with implant treatment.
Are dental implants safe for patients with metal allergies?
Dental implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material with a low risk of causing allergic reactions. However, if you have a known metal allergy, discuss this with your periodontist, who may recommend alternative implant materials such as zirconia.
How do dental implants compare to other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges?
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options, including improved comfort, stability, and preservation of bone density. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, reducing the potential for damage to surrounding teeth. However, dental implants may not be suitable for everyone and may be more expensive than alternative options. We will help you determine the best solution for your specific needs.
Meet Dr. Sams
Meet Dr. Marq Sams
Skill and compassion go hand in hand when providing exceptional patient care. As a dental professional, I stay up to date on the latest advancements in dentistry in order to provide the most current treatment options for my patients.
As a periodontist, I recognize that my patients are unique individuals who have placed a great deal of trust in me and my team. That is just one reason why I value each and every patient relationship.
I appreciate the time you’ve taken to visit this site and find out more about this dental practice, my team, and the many services we can provide to help you achieve optimum oral health.
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What Our
Patients Say
"Overall, I can't say how satisfied I am. They did a wonderful job."
every way, this is the place to come."
I wish I had gotten implants years ago."