Are you missing a tooth or a full row of teeth?
Dental implants can provide a long lasting replacement for missing teeth.
Dental implants have become the highest standard in replacing missing teeth. They provide structural integrity and long-term bite stability. A three-part system, the dental implant is modeled after the ingenuity of a natural tooth. Tooth implants can be used to secure a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants support your adjacent teeth as well.
They provide added oral health benefits over traditional, removable dental restorations. Our Owings Mills MD dentist office offers affordable dental implants to replace missing teeth. Owings Mills Dental Care will help you enjoy the oral health benefits of an implant-secured dental restoration.
What Is A Dental Implant?
Dental implant posts are tiny titanium screw-like structures. The post is surgically implanted into the jaw bone. Titanium is a biocompatible material that gradually fuses with your jaw, stabilizing the alignment of your bite and teeth. Patients may receive a single dental implant to replace a single missing tooth. You can also have several implants placed to permanently secure a denture or dental bridge.
Once the dental implant heals, an abutment is attached to the top of the implant. The abutment is used as an anchor and fastens the final restoration into place.
A dental restoration will be custom designed to look like the patient’s natural smile. Using highly customizable materials, the dental restoration is color, shape, and size-matched to blend seamlessly with adjacent teeth. In addition, if you have multiple teeth missing, dental implants are the solution. The type of restoration used will be determined by the number of missing teeth that need to be replaced.
Is A Dental Implant Right for Me?
Only your dentist can determine if you are the right candidate for an implant. Teeth implants help patients with missing teeth fill the gaps in their smiles. If you have good overall health, and your oral health is not at risk for common diseases such as gingivitis, then you can be considered a good candidate.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
The process has a 95% success rate! You do not have to worry about getting cancer, or losing too much bone mass. Teeth implants stimulate the growth of the jawbone around them. Our team takes special care to only partner with the best specialists to provide successful treatments and excellent long-term results.
Your dentist may recommend dental implants for patients looking for a more secure dental restoration. Dental implants provide added stability and help patients feel more confident in their smiles.
The Dental Implant Process
Dr. Roham Rafat, one of the best implant dentists in Maryland, provides our Owings Mills dentist office with full-service dental implants. Dr. Rafat will perform the surgical placement of the dental implants.
Our dental team will help patients coordinate their treatment for a seamless procedure. Your first visit will include a consultation and oral evaluation to determine if implants are right for you. If not, we will recommend the best course to replace your missing teeth.
During your second visit, your new dental implants will be surgically implanted into your jaw. You will be given a local anesthetic and offered oral sedation for comfort and a pain-free procedure. After the surgery, you will be given special post-op instructions on how to care for your mouth. This can include dietary restrictions, such as avoiding sticky and chewy foods.
It can take about a week for the site to heal. We will give the implants about 3-5 months to fully integrate with your jaw. Everyone’s situation is unique, so it may take longer for some to heal. During this time patients will have a follow-up appointment to ensure that the implant is healing properly.
Once the implant has taken to your jaw, you will need to return to our dentist office to have your final dental restoration secured. This is the part that looks like your natural tooth. It will be placed on the post and the process will be complete.
Dental implants can last a lifetime with great dental hygiene routines. They don’t require special care as dental bridges and dentures do. This permanent solution for missing teeth will have you smiling for life.
Want to learn more? We will offer a free dental implant consultation. Call us at 410-782-3021, or schedule a dental visit online today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Choosing dental implants to replace your teeth is a big decision. We understand that you may several questions about the aftercare or procedure. Please read through our dental implant frequently asked questions to learn more. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us.
Does my insurance cover dental implants?
Most dental insurance plans do not cover the cost of dental implants. Some dental plans are beginning to cover part of the dental implant process, but it’s not common for a dental insurance plan to cover the entire cost.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants last a lifetime if you brush your teeth diligently, practice excellent oral hygiene, and visit your dentist at least twice a year! Tooth implants are made of durable, high-quality materials that do not need to be periodically replaced.
Are dental implants as good as real teeth?
Yes! Dental implants act as natural teeth, look and feel like natural teeth, and blend in with your existing teeth for a seamless smile. They are actually structurally stronger than natural teeth. No one will know that you have a dental implant!
Is it painful to get dental implants?
Most patients report little to no discomfort during the dental implant procedure. Your dentist will be with you every step of the way to make sure you are fully comfortable. You can manage post-op discomfort with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and Tylenol.
How much should I expect to pay for a single dental implant?
The cost of a single dental implant will vary per patient. Factors such as the type of dental implant and the materials you need will affect the final cost. Also, whether or not you need any additional procedures can increase the price. On average, however, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for the implant. An implant-supported crown can cost up to $6,000 without insurance.
How long will my dental implant surgery take?
Dental implant surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours for a single implant. However, this time can fluctuate per patient. A complex case or placing multiple teeth implants will take more time. During your consultation, your dentist will give you an estimated time.
How do I take care of an implant-supported bridge?
You must maintain good oral health by caring for your teeth and gums. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth every day. Pay special attention to the area around the teeth implants to remove all debris. We suggest using an interdental brush or floss threader to clean between the bridge and implants. These help remove all food and debris stuck under the dental bridge. Also, attend all your regular check-ups to maintain good oral health.
How do I care for my denture implants?
For denture implants, maintain oral hygiene by brushing your gums, tongue, and palate. Clean your implant-supported dentures with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleanser. If removable, take out and rinse dentures after meals. Attend regular dental check-ups for professional cleaning and adjustments. Avoid using abrasive materials and follow care instructions from your dentist for optimal hygiene and longevity.
Will dental implants impact my lifestyle?
Dental implants will only positively impact your lifestyle. They will restore your oral function, confidence, and aesthetics. A dental implant restoration feels natural and secure, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. With proper care, your new teeth implants will offer you a long-term solution to tooth loss. This will enhance your overall quality of life by providing stability and functionality similar to natural teeth.
What should I eat after my dental implant surgery?
After dental implant surgery, stick to soft, non-chewy foods to help with your healing. Opt for food items like smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hot or spicy foods for 1 to 3 days. Gradually reintroduce a normal diet as advised by your dentist.
Will any part of the dental implant be visible?
No, the implant fixture itself is not visible once placed in the jawbone. Only the abutment, a small connector, and the dental restoration are visible above the gum line. Your new, false teeth will be custom-made to match your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance.