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I love dental implants, they just look so white, shiny and perfect. I want to look like that, I want them, I need them… You probably tell that to yourself every once in a while when you’re looking in the mirror. And that’s ok, our bodies are meant to degrade with time, and sometimes we all need a little help achieving the best version of ourselves.
Mother - General Dentist - Blogger
Now let’s face it, there is a great feeling of accomplishment when you can proudly show off a beautiful smile. Unfortunately, despite the great efforts to improve oral care products and routines, in today’s world maintaining your teeth aesthetics is incredibly difficult; Especially with all the chemicals they put in the products we eat and drink, the hereditary dental conditions, and our own bad habits. So keep reading because today you’ll learn everything you need to know about dental Implants.
Dental implants are sophisticated medical devices designed to replace missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post that serves as an artificial tooth root, which is meticulously placed within the jawbone. After a period of healing, during which osseointegration occurs, a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, or denture is securely affixed to this post. The result is a durable and functional replacement that mimics the strength and appearance of natural teeth, improving not only your smile but also your oral health.
Dental implants can last a lifetime, making them an excellent long-term investment for oral health. They offer stability and strength comparable to natural teeth, enhance oral functionality and aesthetics, and can be customized to mimic the looks of the patient’s teeth. Successfully integrated implants help maintain jawbone integrity and support facial structure, preventing bone degrading that often accompanies tooth loss.
Dental implants consist of three main components: the implant post, the abutment, and the prosthetic crown. This tri-part structure forms the basis for what is essentially a complete artificial tooth.
As I said before, the post is a titanium screw that fuses with the jawbone. Abutments serve as connectors between the post and the crown, and they are typically made from titanium, ceramic, or zirconia; and the crown is a dental prosthetic device (it can be a crown, a bridge or a denture depending on the patient) that covers, and completes the dental implant.
If you’re thinking about getting a dental implant you might want to get a dental insurance plan that covers implants to help you with part of the cost, so make sure to give SHD Insurance a call now at (866) 664-0276 and get a free quote in less than five minutes.
Dental implants have a reputation of being super expensive. And I wish I could give you a straight answer here, but to be honest, it is a bit more complicated than you might think. But yes, even the most affordable ones are costly. Now keep in mind that this is a state-of-the-art procedure, and the way you should look at it is as a long-term investment. And by long-term, I mean lifetime long-term.
So first of all, let me tell you that the cost of dental implants varies a lot, and It can be substantially different across providers. Estimated fees span from a few thousand dollars to potentially tens of thousands.
But why? Well there’s a few reasons. Firstly, and most importantly, it depends on the complexity of the procedure and the type and quantity of dental implants you actually need; as well as any other procedures you might need to get prior to getting the implant.
We also need to consider the materials used to manufacture the post, the abutment, and the crown. Even though the post and the abutment are made of titanium, there are different qualities of this material, and such is the case of the ceramic used to make the crown.
Finally, The expertise of the dental professional that performs the dental implant procedure is also a reason that can affect the price.
Dental implants are a long-term solution, often lasting for decades and even a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Yet, just like natural teeth, their lifespan can vary depending on various factors. They resist wear and tear remarkably, but it’s important to note they may still require periodic adjustments. It’s unrealistic to label them as “indestructible,” yet they offer unparalleled longevity when compared to traditional prosthetics.
Healthy oral habits significantly extend implant longevity and regular check-ups are essential as well. Factors contributing to the durability of dental implants include once again the material’s quality, adherence to oral hygiene practices, and the patient’s overall health.
Prior to receiving dental implants, a comprehensive consultation and planning phase is essential. This phase ensures that the patient is a suitable candidate for implants. Thorough planning is vital for the long-term success of the procedure and patient satisfaction.
During your first appointment, your doctor will start with the Initial Examination which is A detailed assessment including dental history, oral exam, and X-rays or 3D imaging. Then they’ll need to determine bone density and volume to ensure successful dental implant integration.
After the initial diagnosis, they’ll explore types of implants and determine the most suitable for your needs. Then your dentist will outline the procedural steps, recovery times, and give you a clear breakdown of expenses, and payment options. Finally, they will schedule your next appointment.
Call us now and get a free quote. Plans starting as low as around $1/day.
On the day of the appointment, make sure to arrive on time and follow all instructions from the dental staff at all times. Dental implant surgery is a meticulous procedure requiring precision so your cooperation is essential.
They will begin by applying anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience during the surgery.
Then they will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the underlying bone; and then drill a hole in the bone to make room for the dental implant post.
After preparing the gum and bone, they will place the biocompatible titanium post into the drilled bone space, and then Stitch the gum tissue back over the implant site to facilitate healing. This should mark the end of your second appointment.
You’ll then enter a healing period known as osseointegration, where the jawbone integrates with the implant, creating a stable foundation for the prosthetic. This healing process can vary in duration, often being a couple of months, to ensure the integrity of the dental implant before the final crown is attached.
You’ll need to come back after a few months for a third appointment so your doctor can check the incision. Once healing is complete, they will attach the abutment to the implant post, which will support the crown.
At this point they will take dental impressions to craft the permanent crown that matches your natural teeth. Then you’ll need to wait for them to fabricate the crown, which shouldn’t take more than one or two weeks. And then you can come back for your final appointment.
Finally, during your last appointment, they will affix the custom-made crown to the abutment, restoring full dental function and completing the dental implant procedure.
I always recommend to finish the process with a teeth whitening session so your smile can look even brighter, but this is completely optional.
If you’re looking for a dental insurance plan that helps you cover your dental implants procedure cost, make sure to give us a call at (866) 664-0276 and get a free quote in less than five minutes.
After they finish the procedure, your dentist will give you post-operative care guidelines and it’s very important that you adhere to them because they’re essential to avoid complications and achieve optimal integration of the implant in the oral framework. However, here’s a list of the most common recommendations us dentists make after a dental implant procedure:
Expect mild discomfort post-procedure: Immediately after your dental implant surgery, it’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising around the implant site. To manage discomfort, your dental professional may prescribe medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers.
Maintain good oral hygiene: Ask about appropriate oral hygiene practices, like gentle brushing and using specific mouth rinses; this is essential in your daily recovery routine.
Adherence to dietary guidelines is crucial: During the initial weeks, it’s vital to consume soft foods. Gradually reintroducing harder foods as healing progresses.
Regular follow-ups are necessary: Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits to monitor the integration process and ensure the surgical site is healing correctly. Be attentive to their advice and don’t hesitate to seek guidance if any unexpected symptoms arise during your recovery. This includes any persistent discomfort, as it may indicate a need for adjustments or further examination.
Dental implants are fantastic not only for their ability to restore the function and aesthetics of natural teeth but also for their capacity to preserve facial structure integrity. By providing support for the jawbone, they help prevent bone loss, maintaining the youthful contours of your face and promoting oral health.
Dental implants are renowned for their substantial durability, often outlasting other dental restorative options by many years. With responsible oral care, including regular brushing and flossing, implants can last a lifetime. Here is a list of the best benefits this procedure offers:
Restore teeth functionality: Implants help maintain the natural alignment of your remaining teeth.
Preserve teeth integrity: dental implants do not require altering surrounding teeth.
Restore facial structure: the titanium post that replaces the tooth root becomes integrated with your jawbone, creating a stable foundation.
Improve aesthetics: Dental implants are designed to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth to blend with your existing dentition.
Prevent bone loss: Implants help maintain your facial contours and prevent premature aging.
High Success Rate: Dental Implants have a success rate of up to 95% when properly maintained.
Long-Term Investment: Implants can last for decades, making them a cost-effective, long-term choice.
While dental implants are a cutting-edge procedure there are some potential risks, although it’s important to clarify that the chance of complications is relatively low.
Some complications may include infection at the implant site, damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels, nerve damage, or sinus problems.
Risks are often related to the surgical process itself and the body’s response to the implant. Patients with good oral health and adequate bone density are typically at a lower likelihood of experiencing complications. It’s critical to discuss your health history with your dentist to mitigate any potential risks. Moreover, rigorous post-operative care and hygiene practices are key for long-term dental implant success.
So now you know it, Dental implants are a fantastic long-term solution to restore not just the function and aesthetics of natural teeth but also their capacity to preserve facial structure integrity. By providing support for the jawbone, they help prevent bone loss, maintaining the youthful contours of your face and promoting oral health.
It is true that they are very costly, but considering all the great benefits they offer, and the amazing lifespan of the procedure, they are one the best investments you can make in your oral health because they will help you save money in other costly dental procedures through the years.
If you are struggling to find a good dental plan that you can rely on when needed; SHD offers great options for individuals, families and seniors. Call us now at (866) 664-0276 to get a free Quote!
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Smart Health Dental is a national dental plan that is dedicated to providing you with the best service in the industry. We are committed to developing quality dental products that provide consumers with the best value and choices in the insurance industry.
The Smart Health Dental PPO insurance policy is underwritten by Renaissance Life & Health Insurance Company of America, Indianapolis, IN, and in New York by Renaissance Life & Health Insurance Company of New York, Binghamton, NY. Products and services referred to may not be available in all states and jurisdictions. There is no ownership affiliation between Renaissance and Smart Health Dental. For complete coverage details, please refer to the certificate of insurance.
Membership in Communicating for America, Inc. (CA) is required to enroll for coverage under the Smart Health Dental PPO insurance policy offered. CA membership provides non-insurance discounts like prescription drug discounts and a vision discount program. CA will communicate member information to you via email or by directing you to their website. Should an individual decide to enroll in the dental insurance policy, he or she will be prompted during the enrollment process to confirm acceptance of membership in CA.
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This plan is a discount plan NOT a health insurance policy.
This plan provides discounts at certain health care providers for medical services.
This plan does not make payments directly to the providers of medical services.
The plan member is obligated to pay for all health care services but will receive a discount from those health care providers who have contracted with the discount medical plan organization.
The DMPO does make available an up-to-date list of all program providers which includes their name, city & state, and medical specialty prior to purchase, upon request.
That the range of discounts for medical services provided under the plan will vary depending on the type of provider and the medical services received.
The corporate name and the location of the licensed discount medical plan organization is: Access One Consumer Health, Inc. 84 Villa Road, Greenville, SC 29615; 1-800-896-1962; www.accessonedmpo.com
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