Replacing Your Natural Tooth
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that can be used as a foundation to replace one or multiple missing teeth.
During your first dental implant appointment, the implant is surgically placed into the jaw bone, where it bonds and serves as an anchor for a tooth replacement. When implanted, the screw functions as a natural tooth root.
Dental implants serve more than a cosmetic benefit to our Deep River patients. They can also help to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, resolve bite issues or jaw joint pain, and help restore facial tissues and appearance.
Why Replace Missing Teeth
A missing tooth is just a large gap between the surrounding teeth. This gap can present misalignment issues and even lead to facial collapse, which is why dental implants are an important option in tooth restoration.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Whether you need a crown, bridge or denture placed for the first time or replaced, we can help.
The specific steps of the procedure will vary depending on whether the abutment needs to be replaced with a permanent, custom-made one. Impressions will be taken during the initial appointment, then sent to a lab.
Once the healing is complete, generally 3 to 6 months post-surgery, patients return to our office to complete the procedure.
Finally, your dentist will attach a "cap" tooth replacement, such as a dental crown, bridge or denture, to the implant to create the look and function of a natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Gage Dentistry.
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How long does a dental implant last?
If you care for your implant properly, it can last a lifetime. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors including nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for a dental implant just like you care for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the procedure, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant procedure usually takes about two to nine months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurances companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.