Missing teeth can negatively impact your confidence and quality of life. Thanks to advances in medical technology, patients have a solution to replace their missing teeth in dental implants. If you're curious about the process, read on for more insight about what to expect.
A Thorough Examination
Before you get your hopes up about getting permanent dental implants, you must receive approval from your local dental practitioner. During your consultation for implants, your dentist will do a thorough examination of your mouth and jawbone. Expect to have X-rays and questions about your overall health. Your dentist needs to make sure your jaw is in good shape for this type of oral surgery because not everyone is eligible for dental implants.
An Investment
Dental implants are a big investment because they're a permanent solution. Fortunately, your insurance provider may be able to help assist with covering your implant surgery. However, keep in mind that the reason for your implant may impact how much your insurance covers. For example, according to USA Today, your insurance provider may cover up to 50% of a cosmetic implant. Be sure to reach out to your dental insurance company after discussing your implant surgery with your dentist to determine how much will be covered and if you can set up a payment plan to cover the cost.
A Long Healing Process
Once you have approval for your dental implant surgery, expect the process to take a while. In other words, you won't have a full mouth of dental implants within a week or two. This oral surgery involves the placement of titanium implants into your jawbone, and it can take several months to heal. Once your jaw has fully healed, your dentist will place crowns on the implants.
Natural Looking Teeth
Once your dental implants are complete, you can show off a set of natural-looking teeth. The implanted crowns also function like natural teeth, so you can eat and chew your favorite foods without worrying about them coming loose like an adhered denture might. You don't have to remove them at night, either, and you can brush and floss just like you would your natural teeth.
Your local
dental offices
can help restore your confidence, quality of life, and oral health with dental implants. To learn more about qualifying for this procedure, contact our Nurture Dental Health today for more information.