Dental Implants to Restore Your Smile
If you're missing teeth, dental implants can be an ideal solution. They provide a long-term solution and are aesthetically and functionally equivalent to natural teeth.
A dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium steel. It is inserted into the jawbone to replace the tooth's natural root. A tooth replacement, such as a dental crown, is permanently anchored to the metal implant.
Placing a dental implant can help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, resolve bite issues or jaw joint pain, and help restore facial tissues and appearance.
This is the strongest, most comfortable solution to replace missing teeth and restore a healthy, confident smile.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a permanent tooth replacement option that combines dentures and dental implants. Unlike standard dentures which rest on your gums, implant-supported dentures are anchored by implants attached to your jawbone.
The Dental Implant Process
This dental process replaces one or more missing teeth. It has two separate steps, each completed in its own visit, meaning it will take at least two appointments.
During your initial visit, your dentist will surgically place the implant into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. During the healing process, the implant bonds with the jawbone and your gums attach to it. This can take approximately three to six months.
Once the implant has fully healed, you will return for the second part of the dental implant process. At this appointment, we will attach a tooth replacement, such as a dental crown or bridge, restoring the look and function of your smile with a natural-looking artificial tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Here, you can read the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Kimberley Family Dental.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime. This includes daily flossing, twice-daily brushing, and attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors, including nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
The good news is that your dental implant shouldn't need any special care. You will care for a dental implant just like you care for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, minimizing the risk of complications with your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain.
Following the procedure, there is usually little discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
To avoid pain or irritation, you may want to follow a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
While the exact timeline depends on your treatment plan, the dental implant process usually takes three to six months to complete.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while others will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't.
Check with your insurance provider to determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance.