Frequently Asked Dental Implant Questions
Answers for Common
Implant Questions
Dental implants have quickly become the most popular form of tooth replacement around the world, which means people have a lot of questions about them. If you’re ready to do something about your missing teeth and want to learn more about dental implants, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked dental implants questions from Wellington, FL dentistry patients that we receive below. Is there anything you’d like to know that we didn’t cover on this page? If so, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed within the jawbone and used to support replacement teeth. Made of strong titanium, they can be topped with a crown, bridge, or partial/full denture depending on how many teeth a patient is missing.
Are dental implants better than removable bridges or dentures?
If you were to ask any of our patients with dental implants, they would tell you YES. When it comes to stability, dental implants are in a league of their own, and thanks to the custom-made restorations provided by Dr. Delica, they are indistinguishable from real teeth in appearance as well. They also last multiple times longer compared to traditional prosthetics and have been shown to endure for 30 years or more.
What is the dental implant procedure like?
The dental implant procedure can be broken down into two main phases: placement and restoration. For implant placement, Dr. Delica performs a minor surgical procedure in which a patient’s implant roots are positioned within the jawbone where their teeth used to be. After the mouth has been given time to heal, the patient (who wears temporary restorations while healing) will return to Dr. Delica to have their new teeth attached to the implants.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
This really depends on the patient and where they are starting out. For example, if a person is missing one tooth and has relatively good oral health, the entire implant process may just take a few months from start to finish. However, if a patient wants to replace several teeth and is dealing with periodontal disease and bone loss, then the treatment process may take closer to a year. Dr. Delica can give you a much more definitive timeline after she sees you for a consultation.
Does getting dental implants hurt?
Thanks to Dr. Delica’s experience and use of the latest technology, most patients describe feeling a little pressure during the implant placement procedure, but nothing resembling pain. She goes out of her way to ensure our patients remain comfortable from their first visit all the way until they walk out with their brand new smile.
Can I use dental insurance to pay for dental implants?
Right now, most dental insurance plans do NOT provide coverage for dental implants. However, a person’s benefits can often be used to offset the cost of things related to getting implants, like periodontal office visits, exams, X-rays, the restorations used to top the implant, etc. When you come to see us, we’ll go over your benefits and help you figure out the best way to maximize your plan and make your care affordable.