Dental implants offer a natural-looking and feeling tooth replacement option that feels and functions just like natural teeth. Plus, these restorations are incredibly durable and require less upkeep than other methods for maintaining dentures.
During a dental implant procedure, a metal post is implanted into your jawbone to fuse with bone. The implant must remain in place for several months to allow osseointegration (oss-ee-oh-in-tuh-GRAY-shun).
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are a revolutionary solution to replace missing teeth. They look, feel and function just like natural teeth – providing you with all the benefits of modern dentistry!
Implants also prevent bone loss, which can give your face and jaw a youthful look before its time.
Dentures can cause bone loss, while implants provide stimulation to your jawbone for healthy growth.
Another advantage of implants is that they restore full chewing power to your mouth, helping prevent crooked and irregular chewing patterns that could lead to tooth decay or other oral health issues.
Dental implants are a permanent solution that will last you a lifetime, designed with comfort in mind and aesthetic appeal. That’s why they have become so popular among those needing tooth replacement options. Opal Dental in Toongabbie provides these services near Parramatta, Westmead, Blacktown and Seven Hills suburbs.
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implant surgery is a complex and delicate procedure, but the reward for your oral health is invaluable. During your initial consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon, they will assess the state of your jawbone to decide if implants are suitable for you.
If your jawbone is not strong enough to support a tooth implant, you may require bone grafting surgery before the procedure can be completed. This graft could be constructed out of natural bone or synthetic material.
During the procedure, your provider will expose a small area of your jawbone and insert a titanium screw that fused directly to it. This process, known as osseointegration, allows your implant to become integrated with your jawbone and secure your new crown securely.
After your bone has healed, your dentist will attach an abutment on top of your implant. This piece connects your replacement tooth to the implant and needs to be tightened in order to remain securely in place.
Dental Implant Recovery
Dental implants need time to heal and firmly attach with the jaw bone, a process known as osseointegration (oss-ee-oh-in tuh-GRAY-shun).
The amount of time it takes for your jawbone to heal after receiving a dental implant depends on several factors, including the number of implants and your health prior to surgery. On average, it takes around 3-6 months for all parts of the implant to integrate fully.
After your initial implant placement, it is important to follow your dentist‘s recovery instructions. Rest and ice the surgical site in order to reduce swelling.
Pain and discomfort are often minimal, but should you experience excessive bleeding or swelling, contact your dentist right away for assistance.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, particularly around the implant post, is essential to reduce infection risks and maximize success with dental implants.
Dental Implant Cost
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants are a great alternative to dentures and bridges since they don’t require altering healthy teeth. Furthermore, these prosthesis help maintain your appearance and self-confidence.
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and upkeep, unlike dentures which cause tooth degeneration.
Costs vary based on the number of teeth need replaced, the type of implants chosen and whether additional preparatory procedures such as x-rays, CT scans or bone grafts are necessary.
On average, a single tooth replacement costs between $1,500-$6,500 without insurance coverage. On the other hand, an entire mouthful of implants could easily cost upwards of $60,000 or more.