Whether you would like to go to an oral surgeon or a periodontist for your dental implant procedure, it’s important to visit a dentist to place your implants as soon as possible. You don’t want to wait around if you have a missing tooth or teeth.
Below is more information about implants, the types of implants, the benefits, whether you should choose an oral surgeon or periodontist, and more.
What Are Implants?
A dental implant is a dental prosthetic intended to replace a tooth or multiple teeth. This prosthetic involves the placement of a titanium rod to hold a false tooth or teeth in place. Sometimes multiple implants are used to hold prosthetics in place.
Types of Dental Implants
There are a variety of different implant procedures your dentist may consider depending on your specific needs.
Below are some common forms of dental implants:
Single Implant Crowns
A single implant crown helps patients that only require one tooth replaced. That being said, some dentists will choose to place multiple single implant crowns to address multiple missing teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Whether you already have dentures or you are just getting your first pair, you may be wondering what your best option is. For more secure dentures that are long-lasting, there are implant-supported dentures. These dentures involve the placement of implants that hold removable dentures in place.
Dental Implant Bridges
Implant bridges are a hybrid between dental bridges and implants. Like dental bridges, implant bridges hold more than one false tooth in place. Unlike traditional bridges, the surrounding teeth do not need to be reshaped.
All-on-4
All-on-4 are similar to implant dentures. The main difference is the all-on-4 prosthetic is semi-permanent and is not intended to be removed by the patient. With that said, the implants to hold the prosthetic in place are permanent.
Benefits of Implants
There are a lot of benefits to implants. Below are some of the benefits:
· Teeth Shifting Prevention. In order to prevent teeth from shifting, it’s important to have a replacement or replacements for a missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants stop teeth from shifting.
· Strength and Durability. Dental implants are very strong and durable. They fuse to the jawbone of the patient, providing additional strength and support. This allows you to eat your favorite foods without concern.
· A Long-Lasting Solution. Dental implants are intended to last a lifetime. While the prosthetic will eventually need to be changed, the dental implants should remain securely in place.
· Preserves Surrounding Teeth. While dental bridges help to keep teeth from shifting and provide support, they also require the reshaping of healthy teeth. Dental implants do not require reshaping.
· Preserves Facial Appearance. With a missing tooth or teeth, the shape of your face may change and appear sunken in. Dental implants help to maintain the integrity of the jawbone, which prevents your face from changing.
· Maintains Oral Health. What many people don’t understand about teeth migration is the damage it can do to a patient’s overall oral health. Outside of impacting other teeth, it can also cause crookedness and crowding. This is not just aesthetically unappealing—it is also a danger to the teeth and gums. Teeth that have shifted can be more difficult to care for, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Dental implants prevent the shifting of teeth, which makes it easier to care for them.
· An Improved Smile. Having a gap in your smile can be frustrating. Dental implants fill that gap and allow you to smile with confidence.
Is it Better to Go to an Oral Surgeon or a Periodontist for Dental Implants?
While you can visit an oral surgeon for dental implants, a periodontist specializes in the treatment of periodontal disease and the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also trained to perform procedures that help with the implant process, such as bone grafts, extractions, and sinus lift procedures.
Whichever you choose, make sure you have your tooth replaced if you have a tooth removed, your tooth falls out, or your tooth is knocked out.
Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants will vary depending on the dentist that performs the procedure, insurance coverage, how many implants are required, the prosthetic material, the individual prosthetic, and more. With that said, a dental implant is often around $3,000-$6,000 (before insurance) for a single implant.
Am I a Candidate?
In order to determine if you are a candidate for a dental implant, you’ll first need to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark at Forest Hills Dental. He will take a look at your gums and jawbone to see if you are a good candidate for implants. He will also let you know if other procedures (like a bone graft) will be required before the implant is placed.
You’ll also need to consider cost and insurance coverage. While dental implants are secure and a great long-term solution, they are also more costly than other options (in the short term).
Why Forest Hills Dental?
There are a lot of dental offices in the area to choose from. So, why Forest Hills Dental?
Forest Hills Dental provides a variety of different dental services by top professionals in the field—including Dr. Mark. He is very experienced when it comes to dental implants, and you can rest assured the implant procedure will go smoothly. Our prices are also extremely affordable, and we have a strong emphasis on customer service. We want you to leave your appointment happy.
Reach Out to Forest Hills Dental Today!
If you have a missing tooth, missing teeth, or you simply have questions about the dental implant process, reach out to Forest Hills Dental. We are happy to discuss the implant procedure with you and schedule an appointment for a consultation.
We look forward to meeting you and helping you with your dentistry needs.
