Although in some cases, a single dental implant may be placed immediately following a tooth extraction, most people do not have dental implants completed in a single day. The reason? Planning for dental implants deserves time, research, and a well-strategized treatment plan that takes longer than a single visit. Here’s why dental implants are not typically performed in one day.
Dental Implants: The Process for Restoring Your Smile
Dental implants should last at least 20 years and may last your entire life if the procedure is performed by a highly trained implant specialist. To ensure precision in placement, an efficient recovery, and a beautiful, functional smile at the end of your treatment, the dental implant process should be incredibly thorough.
During your initial consultation for dental implants, a thorough clinical examination and evaluation will be performed. Digital X-rays will be taken to verify that you have sufficient bone height and volume to support a dental implant. If you do not have sufficient bone to support a dental implant, you may need a bone grafting procedure to restore bone density and promote new bone growth.
If your jawbone is sufficient to support a dental implant, your dentist will discuss all implant restoration options available to you. Options for restoring missing teeth with dental implants include:
- Single-tooth dental implants
- Implant-supported dental bridges
- Implant-supported removable dentures
- Implant-supported fixed dentures
Once you have determined the best type of dental implant restoration to meet your needs and goals, you’ll have a variety of detailed, painless scans taken. These 3D images are integral to designing your dental implant restorations.
The dental implant surgery involves image-guided placement of the implants (posts or screws) in the jaw bone. You’ll then spend several months allowing the bone and tissues to fuse with the implant, just like bone and tissue fuse with a natural tooth root. This process, called osseointegration, typically takes less than six months. Once osseointegration is complete, your implants will be fitted with your custom crown, bridge, or denture, and your treatment is complete.
Benefits of Dental Implant Restorations
There is no disputing that dental implants are the premium dental restoration for missing teeth. Dental implants provide myriad cosmetic and functional benefits including:
- Natural-looking dental restoration
- Eliminates gaps in your smile
- Preserves the jawbone
- Preserves the facial appearance
- Restores bite force
- Restores speaking ability
- Restores chewing capability
- Stain-resistant
- Cavity-resistant
- Extremely durable
- Reduces risk of additional tooth loss
- Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting into gaps
- Reduces risk of periodontal disease
- Boosts confidence and self-esteem
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
Will My Dental Insurance Pay for Implant-Supported Dentures?
All dental insurance policies are a bit different. Although dental insurance rarely pays for single-tooth implant restorations, it may pay for a portion of implant-supported dentures, or bridges. Contact your carrier to learn specific details about your coverage.
Are there financing options available to help me pay for dental implants?
For long-term financing, CareCredit can be a great option for low monthly payments. Gold Coast Smiles also offers a short-term, in-house financing option that may be available to you. Speak with our front desk team about financing offers.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants in Glen Cove, NY
The founder of Gold Coast Smiles, Dr. Andrew Sami is a highly regarded and top-reviewed cosmetic and restorative dentist. After earning his DDS from SUNY Stony Brook, Dr. Sami completed a multi-year implant dentistry fellowship at NYU. He is a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. To schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. Sami, call 516-676-0250 or book your appointment online.