Call Us Today!
When we are talking to a patient about dental implants, our first job is to ensure that their teeth and mouth are in good condition. We will inspect the health of teeth, gums and, using x-rays, the bone supporting the teeth. Many people have suffered bone loss and we must make sure that their supporting bone is healthy and sound. If it is not, we can still place implants successfully, but we must prepare the bone for this procedure first.
In general, almost anyone who is in good general health and whose teeth and gums are in good condition is a candidate for dental implants.
If you have lost one or more teeth, please consult with us about the possibility of dental implant replacements for these teeth.
Think about the way your natural teeth are shaped. There is a white crown above the gum line, and it is supported by the root of your tooth that extends down into the gum and bone. A dental implant is constructed very similarly.
The root of your tooth is replaced by a slender titanium post (the implant) that will be placed in the bone of your jaw. Titanium is used for this and joint replacement surgeries of various types because this metal bonds very well with human bone tissue.
To place this implant, we will create a small opening in the gum and drill a hole in the jaw to secure the implant. Then a ceramic crown (the white replacement tooth) will be attached to the connection at the top of the implant.
There are two systems of placing this implant. In one, the implant is placed and is left for a period of months while it bonds with the bone. The crown is attached at the end of this healing period.
In the Teeth-in-a-Day system, the implant is placed and the crown is attached the same day. You can walk in missing one or more teeth and walk out with your new permanent teeth.
Dental implants are a procedure to replace missing teeth. Dentists usually recommend them when a tooth is missing. Teeth can be lost due to various reasons such as gum disease, decay, or trauma.
Dental implants have many advantages over other dental procedures such as bridges and removable dentures. They serve as a natural tooth with an artificial root onto which a crown is placed. This allows patients to floss around them, and they look and feel like natural teeth.
If you decide to get a dental implant, first, the surgeon will place the implant body into the bone, replacing the root of the tooth. Once the implant heals, a crown is placed on top of the implant.
For dental implants, the doctor usually takes dental x-rays. Sometimes, a CBCT may be recommended. CBCT is a CAT scan procedure providing a three-dimensional image of the bone. This helps measure exactly where to place the implant, giving an understanding of the bone height and width.
Medical history is very important prior to dental implants. Though many people are good candidates for dental implants, some medical conditions may impact implant placement. For example, patients with uncontrolled diabetes may not be good candidates for dental implants.
To develop a treatment plan that is right for you, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination, take x-rays, an intraoral exam, some measurements, and then place the implant.
The process of placing dental implants involves thorough examination and treatment planning. Once the decision is made on where to place the implant and what size to choose, a small incision is made to place the implant. It usually takes anywhere between three to six months for the implant to fully integrate into the bone. Once the implant is ready to be restored, measurements for the crown are taken to fabricate a new tooth.
In instances where there's insufficient bone height or width, the dentist may recommend a bone graft. Bone grafting involves adding bone particles to the existing bone to gain more bone volume for the implant placement.
Recovery time after the implant placement is usually minimal. Some patients may experience minimal discomfort, which can be easily controlled with medication. Many patients report no post-operative pain, and recovery typically takes a few days.
Dental implants may last your lifetime. They will not get cavities as they are made out of titanium. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial as gum disease can still develop around the implant.
Dental implants cannot get cavities because they are made out of metal, which is not susceptible to decay.
The cost of dental implants often depends on the insurance coverage you have. Generally, it may cost a few thousand dollars. Financing options are available to spread out the payments over a longer period. Many dental insurances cover the implant placement and restoration, such as crowns and bridges. To get more accurate information on what will be covered, please contact our office to check your insurance eligibility. You can easily schedule an appointment by giving us a call, and our receptionist will help you set up a consult.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, which ensures the patient's comfort. Although some discomfort or swelling may be experienced after surgery, Dr. Silivria can prescribe over-the-counter medications to manage the symptoms. The majority of patients can resume their normal activities in a matter of days or weeks, but full healing and integration may take several months.
Although they may be more expensive initially, dental implants offer many benefits over the long term. Dental implant treatments are covered by many dental insurance plans. Our practice also offers flexible financing to make the treatment more affordable.
It is the same as caring for natural teeth: you should brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly. Dr. Silivria can also provide more specific instructions on how to take care of your dental implants. She may recommend other hygiene products or techniques that will help you maintain your oral health and extend the life expectancy of your implants.
Smokers may be able to receive dental implants, even though smoking increases the risk of complications or implant failure. During your consultation, Dr. Silivria will assess your risks and recommend the best treatment for your oral hygiene. The success of dental implants can be improved by quitting smoking or reducing your tobacco consumption.
Dental implants will look and feel like natural teeth. The prosthetics attached to the implants can be custom-made to match your existing teeth in size, color, shape, and texture. This creates a natural-looking and seamless smile. Dental implants also offer stability and chewing functions similar to natural teeth. This allows you to smile, eat, and speak with confidence.
Business Hours
Monday 10am to 6pm
Tuesday 10am to 6pm
Wednesday (receptionist only)
Thursday 10am to 6pm
Friday 10am to 4pm
Saturday & Sunday Closed
Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Wednesday 10am - 4pm
(By special appointment only)
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 4pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
All Rights Reserved | Riverside Dental Care