Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are quickly becoming the standard in care for replacing missing teeth because they look and function just like natural teeth. They are also the only tooth replacement option that is considered permanent, with most implants lasting 30 years or more with proper care. For many patients, dental implants last a lifetime.

While dentures and bridges come with drastic eating restrictions and have a tendency to slip or fall out, causing socially awkward situations, dental implants solve all those problems and allow people to live life to the fullest.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Improved appearance
• Just as sturdy as natural teeth
• No eating restrictions
• Can last a lifetime
• Won’t slip, pinch, or fall out
• Protect the jawbone
• Preserve facial contours
• Easy to care for; brush and floss like natural teeth

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants are made up of three pieces: a titanium screw (the implant itself), an abutment (connecting piece), and the final crown or restoration. The process occurs in stages, each of which can be performed by Dr. Notis right here in our comfortable, modern office.

During the first stage, bone grafting is performed (if needed) to provide sufficient support for the implant. Next, the dental implant, made of titanium, is inserted into the jawbone. Over the next few months, the tooth implant fuses with the bone (“osseointegration”), creating a stable base for the restoration.

The implant is left to heal for several months. Then you return to us for a perfect-fit, natural-looking crown or restoration. The entire process takes from 3 to 12 months, depending on factors such as whether you need bone grafting, the osseointegration process, and your healing time.

Implants and Your Health

Dental implants offer several health benefits that are not found with other restoration options, such as bridges or dentures. Perhaps most importantly, you can eat a healthy diet rich in fibrous fruits and vegetables. A tooth implant also stimulates the jawbone, which is crucial for maintaining bone density. If the jawbone is not properly stimulated, it deteriorates rapidly, contributing to sunken facial contours and a prematurely aged appearance.

The Cost of Dental Implants

Many people are intimidated by the cost of dental implants; however, it is important to realize that they protect the jaw and give people a higher quality of life. While they cost more initially than other options, they typically do not require replacement, unlike dentures and bridges. You do not have to invest regularly in special denture cleaners, relines, adjustments, and new dentures every few years. Dental implants offer a “one-time and done” solution for missing teeth, making the cost more affordable over time.

Dr. Notis will provide an accurate cost breakdown for your tooth implant or implants during your initial consultation, including payment options, to ensure there are no surprises. We work with our patients to make dental implants attainable.

Dental Implant FAQs

Do dental implants hurt?

No – the surgical site is numb during the surgery and afterward for several hours. After the anesthesia starts to wear off, some patients have some discomfort for a few days, but it is typically well controlled with over-the-counter pain medications.

Can I have all my teeth replaced with dental implants?

For those who are missing all (or most) of an arch of teeth, we offer a wonderful same-day implant-supported denture option, nSequence®.

Will my insurance cover dental implants?

It depends on your insurance plan and coverage limits. Most insurance plans will cover a portion, such as bone grafting, but may not cover all of the cost of dental implants. We will help you get the maximum coverage allowed by your plan.

How do I care for my implants?

One of the advantages of dental implants is that they are easy to care for. You brush them twice daily and floss them daily, just like your natural teeth. Although they cannot develop cavities, it is important to keep them clean and free of plaque, particularly around the base, to prevent gum disease and infections. Twice-yearly dental exams are also essential so that Dr. Notis can check for any potential problems.

Am I too old to get dental implants?

No. Many individuals in their 70s and older have received a tooth implant or implants and been thrilled with the results. Although healing may take a bit more time as you age, there is no age limit for getting dental implants.

If you’re missing a tooth and want to enjoy life to the fullest again, please call our friendly team at Allentown Phone Number 610-433-6745 today!