Dental implants are a popular choice for people who are missing one or more teeth. They offer a number of benefits over other forms of tooth replacement, such as dentures or bridges.
Here at North Pointe Dental Associates, home to some of the best dentists in Tampa, we specialize both in general and cosmetic dentistry. Not a week goes by that a patient brings up a question or concern about dental implants, so in this blog post, we will discuss what is the procedure are, how they’re inserted, and how long they last. We’ll also answer some other common questions about dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small titanium screws that act as artificial roots for missing teeth. They’re inserted directly into the jawbone, and an abutment is attached to them. An artificial tooth (or “crown”) is then placed on top of the implant, which restores your ability to chew and smile normally again. The crown looks just like a natural tooth.
How do dentists insert dental implants?
Inserting a dental implant requires minor surgery under local or general anesthesia at the dentist’s office or hospital. First, the patient’s gums are numbed with anesthetic gel or solution so they won’t feel any pain during surgery. Next, a small incision is made in order to expose the bone where the implant will be inserted. The implant is then screwed into the bone using a special tool, and the incision is closed with stitches.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last for many years – even decades – if they’re properly taken care of. As with any other type of tooth replacement, however, there’s always a risk that they may eventually need to be replaced. Regular checkups and cleanings are essential to keeping your implants healthy and functioning properly.
Do dental implants hurt?
One of the benefits of choosing implants over other forms of tooth replacement is that they usually don’t cause much pain or discomfort after surgery. You may experience some minor soreness and swelling in the days following surgery, but this can be easily treated with over-the-counter pain medication.
Are dental implants expensive?
This dental procedure can be more expensive than other forms of tooth replacement, such as dentures or bridges. However, the cost of the dental procedure varies depending on factors such as the location of the dentist and the type of implant used. Many insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of cosmetic dentistry procedure, so be sure to check with your provider.
If you’re considering getting dental implants, be sure to talk to your dentist about all your options. We can help you decide if this procedure are right for you and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
Schedule your next appointment today!
With some of Tampa’s best cosmetic dentists on staff, North Pointe Dental Associates will focus on delivering the highest quality of dental care. As always, if you have any additional questions please don’t hesitate to ask us! Give us a call at (813) 961-1727 to schedule your next appointment and discuss your concerns with the best Tampa dentists.
