When it comes to replacing lost teeth, no option can rival dental implants—these incredible posts are fully capable of restoring missing pearly whites in terms of look, feel, and functionality, and better yet, they can last for decades under optimal circumstances! That said, if you’re thinking about restoring your smile with implants, you might have a lot on your mind. Here are four important questions you should consider asking your dentist when you attend your dental implant consultation so that you can feel informed and comfortable about committing to the dental implant process.
“How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?”
The length of the dental implant process depends mostly on how many implants you’re having placed. Since it can take up to an hour to place each metal post, this time can quickly add up if you’re having multiple implants embedded—so if you’re having several teeth replaced, it might take a few visits. Each metal post will need a couple of months to fully heal and fuse with your jawbone; although you won’t feel this happening, it’s important to ensure that this process, referred to as osseointegration, isn’t delayed. When your posts are ready, the crowns can be secured to them; this appointment is typically much shorter.
“What Can I Expect During the Recovery Period?
Osseointegration is perhaps the single most important factor during the dental implant recovery period; if your implants cannot fuse with your jaw, they will not last! This period usually lasts a few months, but once the crown portions have been added to your implants, you can expect to be sore for a few days as you work to resume your daily routine. You should prepare for this phase of your recovery by stocking up on plenty of soft foods, over-the-counter pain relievers, and ice packs that you can use to alleviate soreness.
“Is There Anything I Can Do to Ensure My Implants Last?”
Fortunately, dental implant maintenance is relatively straightforward, and you’ll simply need to care for your new smile as if it were your natural teeth. Practice good oral hygiene at home by brushing and flossing daily, and don’t skip out on your routine preventive checkups—your dentist is the best resource for confirming that your implants are intact!
“How Much Will Dental Implants Cost?”
Generally, insurance companies will cover the cost of certain pre-operative expenses such as examinations and X-rays; however, the actual process will include the expenses of anesthesia and placing the implant(s), and this cost can vary. There’s also a cost associated with creating and placing the crown portion of the implant. While implants usually have a higher upfront cost than other restorative options such as dentures, they’re considered very cost-effective as time goes on. The price that you pay will depend on many specific factors including how many implants are placed, where they’re placed, and any other necessary preparatory procedures such as periodontal therapy or a dental bone graft.
About the Practice
The team at Zhang Dental Group of Tustin is thrilled to serve the dental needs of the Tustin, CA area under the skillful leadership of Dr. Michael Zhang. Dr. Zhang received his DMD from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dentistry and has taken countless hours of continuing education in a wide range of fields, including dental implant placement. If you have any questions about dental implants or would like to schedule your consultation, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (714) 836-5600.