For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are widely agreed to be a superior replacement solution. Combining a natural appearance with extreme durability for long-lasting results, only implants can enhance your smile while protecting your oral health. Explore our guide to learn more about this treatment.
A dental implant is made up of three parts — a titanium implant fixture that’s placed in your jaw, a small connecting piece called an abutment, and your choice of restoration to complete the implant. Because of this unique structure, this permanent procedure offers unrivaled stability and function.
The implant process begins with a consultation where Dr. Grubb will examine your oral health. Next, you’ll return to our office so we can place your implant. You’ll have to allow a recovery period of three to six months, so your implant fixture can properly align with your jawbone. Once this is finished, we can top the implant with your choice of restoration, leaving you with a healthy and beautiful new smile.
The key to dental implants is a process known as osseointegration, in which your implant fixture fuses with your jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. In order for osseointegration to succeed, you must have sufficient jawbone density and healthy gums. If you don’t, then supplemental treatments can usually prepare you for implant placement.
With proper care, it’s possible your dental implants will never need to be replaced. Typically, dental implants last for 20-25 years or more depending on the patient. The best practice for protecting your new teeth is to maintain excellent oral hygiene and schedule regular checkups with Dr. Grubb at our Havre de Grace office.
All you have to do is brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily — it’s that simple. Diligence is necessary to keep your implants and the area around them healthy. By following a good oral hygiene routine and scheduling regular dental checkups, you help ensure your implants last a lifetime.
Since the oral health and treatment requirements of each patient are unique, the cost of a dental implant procedure can vary.
During your consultation with Dr. Grubb, he’ll provide a cost estimate for your individual dental implants after conducting an examination of your teeth to determine which implant option will be the best for your health going forward.
Most dental insurance providers will either partially or fully cover the cost of your dental implant treatment. Since coverage varies from patient to patient, our office recommends checking with your provider about their specific coverage options for dental implants.
If you’re interested in replacing missing teeth with dental implants, contact our practice in Havre de Grace and schedule a consultation with Dr. Grubb. He’ll listen to your smile goals and determine if dental implants are the best treatment solution for your smile.