When we have broken, missing, or discolored teeth, it can cause us to feel less confident.
It can also interfere with eating, talking, the healthy alignment of our teeth, and the health of our gums. Modern dentistry has come up with many solutions to help people who are missing some or all their teeth.
Dental Implants
Your Today’s Dental dentist can remove your remaining natural teeth and surgically attach realistic looking false teeth directly to your jawbone using implanted titanium screws. The screws used to secure the implants replaces the root part of your natural teeth, creating a stable anchor for your new teeth. These “implanted” teeth can replace all or some of a of your natural teeth. Over time, the titanium implant fuses to your jawbone, which creates a strong foundation and can help prevent future bone loss. Dental implants can have several benefits:
- Easy to care for and clean
- Feels and looks like natural teeth
- Smile, laugh, and speak confidently
Single-tooth Implants
Replaces one natural tooth with one new false tooth; attached directly to the jawbone with a titanium screw.
Implant Bridge
Two screws implanted in the jawbone and used to “bridge” an area where three new teeth are needed. A bridge implant can be more cost effective than replacing each tooth individually.
Denture Implants
Removable dentures you can snap on to titanium screws implanted in your jaw, creating a tighter, more comfortable fit than traditional dentures
Hybrid Implants
A full set or “arch” of upper and lower teeth secured to your jawbone with implanted screws. These upper and lower arches attach to the jaw using special, cutting-edge technology, making them the most realistic looking and feeling option.
- Hybrid implants can only be removed by a dentist for cleaning
- The most durable and natural-feeling option when you need or want to replace all your teeth.
Dentures
A removable set of very realistic looking false teeth fitted just for you and worn over your gums to replace your natural teeth.
- Generally best for people who are missing several or all teeth
- Full or partial denture options to meet your individual needs
- Great comfort, fit, and function- many patients forget they are wearing them!
Talk to your dentist about the best restorative or cosmetic options for your needs and situation.
There are financing options available to help make dental implants or dentures more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
To have implants, a person must have a strong and healthy jawbone, no bone loss, and healthy gum tissue. Most people will be good candidates, but your dentist can discuss your individual case with you to see if dental implants are right for you.
Are there any risks associated with dentures?
To have implants, a person must have a strong and healthy jawbone, no bone loss, and healthy gum tissue. Most people will be good candidates, but your dentist can discuss your individual case with you to see if dental implants are right for you.
Can you fix or replace a missing tooth?
Yes, there are procedures available to replace a missing tooth with a natural-looking false tooth. Dental bridges, implants, and dentures are options that can be considered based on your specific situation. Your dentist will discuss the most suitable option for you.
Does dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
Some dental and medical insurance plans do cover dental implants, though some insurers consider the procedure to be purely cosmetic and don’t offer coverage. To find out if your plan covers dental implant surgery, please contact our offices so we can check the coverage on your plan.
Does it hurt to get dental implants?
You will be given medicine to prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure. You will likely experience some soreness for a day or two after the procedure, but it is generally less than you’d experience after having a tooth pulled.
How long does it take to have dental implants installed?
The process can take up to two to six months, or there is an option for the implants to be done in one day. The timeline is highly variable and based on your individual situation. To determine how long the process would be for you, it is best to discuss with your dentist.
How much will it cost to have dental implants?
The cost of implants will vary based on your needs and your individual insurance coverage. If you have questions about the cost, please contact our offices so we can give you a personalized quote.
How quickly will I adjust to my dentures?
It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for acclimating to your new dentures. You will have some restrictions as your mouth adjusts. If your dentures are properly fitted, most people will adjust to them within a month or so. If you have ongoing pain or other issues, you should be sure to follow up with your dentist to check the fit of your dentures.
How should I clean my dentures?
Dentures require proper daily cleaning just like natural teeth. You should rinse your mouth and dentures after eating to dislodge any food particles. The dentures should be brushed at least once daily with a soft bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner. This article has some great tips for denture care and what to avoid.
How strong are dentures?
The materials used to make dentures today are strong- about 80-90% as strong as your natural teeth. However, they are vulnerable to breaks just like natural teeth. Very hard foods should be avoided, and care should be taken when handling and cleaning your dentures to avoid dropping or damaging them.
My dentures are loose – what should I do?
Loose dentures can cause many problems like sores, bacteria growth, and problems talking and eating. If your dentures are loose, you should be evaluated by your dentist so adjustments to the fit can be made promptly.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are realistic looking replacement teeth that are permanently implanted into your jaw to restore the form and function of your mouth. The implant generally has a “root” made from titanium, which secures the false tooth or bridge to your jawbone.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants act, look, and feel like natural teeth – giving the wearer restored form and function. There are some advantages over other false teeth options. Implants have no special care requirements beyond normal brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
Why does someone need a dental implant?
Dental implants may be a good solution for someone with one or more missing teeth. The implanted false tooth replaces a person’s natural teeth and helps restore the form and function of the mouth.
Will dentures affect my speech?
Some people experience a mild, temporary change to the way they talk as they get used to the dentures. This should resolve in a couple of weeks.
Will dentures restore my smile?
Dentures completely replace your natural teeth with a set of very realistic looking false teeth, which can restore the look of your smile.
Will dentures restore the proper functioning of my teeth?
Yes, when dentures are properly fitted, removable dentures can restore the normal function of your teeth. They help maintain the shape of your face and can help you enjoy your favorite foods again.
Will I be able to eat the same foods after my dentures?
Once you adjust to your dentures, you will be able to enjoy many of your favorite foods again. However, just as with natural teeth, there are some foods that aren’t denture friendly. Gum, popcorn, small seeds, whole nuts, and foods that are very tough/chewy, hard, sharp, or sticky should be avoided.
Will I have restrictions on food or activities after my dental implants?
After the implant has been placed, there is a delicate time while the tooth settles into the bone and integrates into your mouth. You’ll have some temporary restrictions on chewing while your healing progresses.
