What are dental implants and when are they recommended?
Dental implants are metal frames or posts affixed to the jawbone to simulate the root of a tooth. Once installed, they are connected to a synthetic crown (replacement tooth) with an abutment. Unlike bridges, implants do not depend on the support of existing teeth and exist independently. They are also a fixed replacement, unlike removable dentures that require painstaking maintenance and have a tendency to slip around. When anchored by a dental implant, synthetic replacements function just like your natural teeth, and in some cases even better!
They're recommended for missing teeth so that we don't have to tear down teeth around those.
What conditions might disqualify a person from getting dental implants?
Underlying health issues, high blood pressure, diabetes. There are multiple things that we'll assess whenever you come in to find out if you're a right candidate for this.
What are the benefits and risks of dental implants?
The benefits are you're getting your teeth back, your confidence, and the ability to chew and function so the rest of your body doesn't have to compensate.
Dental implants are a popular method for replacing one or more missing teeth. Hall Family Dentistry is a judgement-free zone, so we want to take a moment to say that missing teeth are nothing to be ashamed of! Teeth can become dislodged for any number of reasons from health issues to trauma and beyond. Even if replacing missing teeth is not a high priority for patients, especially in the cases where the teeth are not prominently visible, we feel it is our duty to make clear the complications and health risks posed by missing teeth. These can include:
- Loss of jawbone
- Shifting teeth that affect bite
- Difficulty speaking
- Difficulty chewing
- Malocclusion leading to headaches, muscle pain and more
- Potential loss of other teeth
- Increased risk of gum disease
For those seeking a reliable and lasting solution to these issues, Hall Family Dentistry offers dental implants in Indianapolis, ensuring both functional and aesthetic restoration for your smile.
The mouth is the gateway to the body, so taking preventative measures against potential health issues can save a lot of time, money and trouble down the road.
What are the different types of implants and different dental implant procedures?
There are different sizes and materials that we can use. You can actually restore implants in different ways. You have the All-on-4; you can place bridges with implants and restore them with a single crown as well.
How will we decide if dental implants are right for you?
Whenever you come in, we'll take a look at your mouth, ensure everything is healthy, examine your bone to see if there's enough to support an implant, and then provide suggestions and options that best fit you.
What are the steps to getting dental implants?
The steps involve assessing your bone and explaining the process as we proceed to place the implant into your jaw to ensure stability.
What options are available for fixing missing teeth?
You have removable versus fixed options. Removable options come in and out of your mouth, while fixed options stay in. People generally have better success and are happier with fixed options, but ultimately the decision comes down to what best fits your mouth and your choice after our discussions.
How long does a dental implant procedure last?
It all depends on where you're placing the implant. I would say the placement takes between 10 to 30 minutes.
Is a dental implant procedure painful?
Everybody's pain tolerance is different. From my experience and what I've heard from patients, they actually say that it's less painful than having a tooth extracted. We will explain everything, ensuring you have the proper medications to take home to minimize discomfort.
What anesthesia options are available when getting dental implants?
We'll ensure you are numb and comfortable. We also offer multiple options such as laughing gas, known as nitrous, and other medications that can sedate you to a certain level. You'll need a driver to take you to and from the appointment if you choose sedation.
Will dental implants last the rest of my life?
Dental implants are amazing, and when properly taken care of, they should last a very long time.
What are the costs and financing options involved with dental implants?
We offer multiple financing options, including in-house options and payment plans. We also work with Care Credit. We have several avenues to help you achieve your goals.
Do most dental insurance plans cover the cost of dental implants?
Insurance acts like a coupon. It will provide some relief or assistance toward most procedures, but every plan is individualized. We will provide the best options when you come in to see us.
Learn More About Dental Insurance & Financing Options
How can I schedule an appointment to talk about dental implants?
If you’d like to learn more about replacing one or more missing teeth with an implant or wanted to learn about other options, give call to our cosmetic dentist in Indianapolis at Hall Family Dentistry in Indianapolis a call today at (317) 204-8096 or send us a message to speak with one of our skilled and knowledgeable team members.