Dental Implants

Everyone wants to feel confident when they smile. Unfortunately, issues such as missing teeth can leave people feeling self-conscious.

Dental implants offer the perfect solution to missing teeth. Family Dental Health Center has operated as one of Idaho Falls’ most trusted family dentists for over 40 years. We have extensive experience with dental implant procedures and know how to achieve the best possible results for our patients.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial components permanently fixed in a patient’s mouth to replace missing teeth. They consist of a titanium “root,” an abutment attached to the titanium, and a porcelain crown attached to the abutment.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implant procedures have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why.

Here are just some of the reasons that dental implants are the perfect replacement for missing teeth:

  • Dental implants are highly durable and function like natural teeth.
  • Dental implants look and feel just like your natural teeth.
  • Dental implants provide enhanced comfort and convenience.
  • Replacing missing teeth with dental implants makes it easier to maintain good oral health. 
  • Replacing missing teeth with dental implants makes speaking and eating easier.

 

Our Dental Implant Process

Here’s what you can expect when you visit us for your dental implant procedure:

Initial consultation: We will evaluate your medical history and current condition to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Customized treatment plan: We will create a customized treatment plan to suit your specific needs.

Implant placement: You will be given anesthesia while titanium implants are placed in your jaw, beneath your gums. The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours per implant.

Healing and osseointegration: After the surgery, your gums will heal, and osseointegration will occur as your bone tissue connects to the dental implant.

Placement of the abutment and crown: Finally, the abutment is attached to the implant, and the crown is secured to the abutment.

Recovery from dental surgery typically takes anywhere from seven days to two weeks. However, it may take up to six months before your implant completely bonds to your jaw.

It’s important to note that although getting dental implants is a worthwhile pursuit, it is somewhat of a lengthy process. The steps of the procedure take place over the course of several visits.

FAQs About Dental Implants

Dental implants can provide a permanent solution for missing teeth. However, dental implants can fail in some cases. Reasons that dental implants may need replacing are as follows:

    • Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene may cause plaque to build up around the implant. This phenomenon is known as peri-implantitis and can cause the dental implant to fail.
    • Teeth grinding: Teeth grinding can cause trauma to the dental implant, fracturing either the implant screw or the porcelain crown.
    • Smoking: Smoking can cause dental implants to need replacing due to the increased risk of gum disease.

One concern patients have is whether the dental implant procedure is painful. You won’t experience pain during the procedure, as the area will be numbed beforehand. Local anesthesia ensures your nerves are temporarily desensitized, making the process pain-free.

Proper care is essential to ensure your dental implants last. Dental implants are low-maintenance and can be cared for in the same way as your regular teeth. Here’s how to care for your dental implants:

  • Brush teeth twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  • Use a low-abrasive toothpaste.
  • Floss twice a day.
  • Avoid eating tough food, such as raw vegetables, or chewing ice.

Dental implants are an effective solution for many people with missing teeth. However, the procedure isn’t suitable for everyone. You may not be a good candidate for dental implants if any of the following apply:

    • You have insufficient bone density and quantity to attach the dental implant to.
    • You have diabetes.
    • You have gum disease. Patients with gum disease may need to have this treated before they can have dental implants fitted.
    • You have a weakened immune system, which may interfere with the healing process following the dental implant procedure.
    • You grind your teeth. Bruxism can cause damage to dental implants.

The cost of dental implants varies depending on how many implants you are having fitted. A single implant can cost well over $1000. However, having more than one implant fitted simultaneously can lower your total cost, making the price cheaper per implant.

Your insurance may cover the cost of your implants. However, if it doesn’t, Family Dental Health Center offers a range of financing options to help you pay for the procedure. Patients can receive discounts on their implants and treatment through our loyalty program.

Studies show that dental implants have a success rate of approximately 97% at ten years and 75% at 20 years. Possible reasons for dental implant failure include poor oral hygiene, bruxism, and smoking.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Contact Family Dental Health to learn more about dental implants and schedule a consultation today.

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