Description of Procedure:

An ideal solution for people who have a missing tooth or teeth, but are in good general oral health, dental implants replace both the tooth and the root. Versatile, strong and natural-looking, dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, or a number of teeth.

The result is better health (able to bite and chew, creates a comfortable bite, reduces chances of gum disease), enhanced aesthetics, and improved speech.

How It's Done:

To replace one tooth, the patient must see either an oral surgeon or a dentist trained in implants. A screw is surgically implanted into the bone of the jaw to hold the tooth in place. Once that implantation is healed, the dentist will place the implant restoration.

For the restoration, an impression of the existing teeth will be made and sent to a dental laboratory. The lab will create a tooth designed specifically to fit in the space, and match the size and shape of the remaining healthy teeth. Once the implant is complete, the dentist will place the new tooth in the mouth, shaping and adjusting to fit your bite.

Technology:

No advanced technology is necessary to place or restore a dental implant.

Recovery Expectations:

Following placement of the artificial roots in the jaw, the bone may be sore and the surrounding gums tender and swollen. Ibuprofen can reduce the symptoms.

Complications:

Any surgery involving the bone may result in an infection, so thorough after care is needed. Your surgeon will give you careful instructions about how to care for your implant while it is healing. It is also very important not to smoke, as this can create a complication called "dry socket", which is painful.

Am I a Candidate:

If you have a missing tooth or teeth, you are a candidate for dental implants.

Cost:

The cost to place and restore a dental implant typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 per tooth, including the services of the surgeon and the dentist.