Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
Not only may tooth loss leave gaps in your smile, but it can also lead the teeth that are still there to move into different positions to make up for the gaps. Your face may seem to have lost some of its fullness over time as a result of missing teeth. To understand how dental implants work and their effectiveness, our Okemos implant dentist, Dr. Christine Tenaglia, answers popular dental implant questions on the blog today so that you can make a knowledgeable choice when it comes to replacing your missing teeth and restoring your smile.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a multi-part solution for replacing a single lost tooth. The first is the implant itself, which is made from durable and long-lasting titanium. The implant is inserted into the supporting jawbone to provide stability and stimulation. After the jawbone heals around the implant, the procedure is complete by placing a dental crown on top of the implant. Your dental crown is created to look exactly like the rest of your teeth in terms of color, shape, and size. When you smile, no one will be able to tell the difference between the crown and your natural teeth.
How long should dental implants last?
Dental implants have a success rate of above 97% with proper oral care. When a dental implant has been properly integrated with the jawbone, it will remain in place for the rest of your life. Eventually, you may need a new dental crown, but if you take good care of it, it should last you at least ten to fifteen years and maybe even longer.
Who qualifies for dental implants?
People with poor oral health aren’t suitable candidates for dental implants. You should also have healthy gums and adequate jawbone mass to support the implant. However, there are alternatives to dental implants if you’ve been missing teeth for a long period and don’t have enough jawbone to support the implant. Our Lansing implant dentist may suggest a bone graft to prepare it for a dental implant.
Can dental implants replace multiple missing teeth?
Yes! Replacement of several teeth with dental implants is possible in many ways. All-on-four dental implants are an excellent alternative for patients who are losing all of their teeth but yet want a permanent repair since they only need four implants. A bridge supported by implants is another possibility if many teeth are missing in a row.
How much maintenance do dental implants require?
Brushing, flossing, and semi-annual visits to the dentist are all that are required for dental implant maintenance.
How much do dental implants cost?
The total implant cost will depend on a wide range of variables. Cost considerations include the number of implants required, the kind of implant-supported bridge chosen, and the need for a bone transplant. During your consultation with Dr. Tenaglia will be able to give you an accurate cost estimate based on your treatment plan and cost.
Dental Implants in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Dental implants provide you with the opportunity to permanently and securely repair your smile. Whether you are interested in dental implants and are missing one or more of your natural teeth, you should get in contact with our East Lansing implant dentist, Dr. Tenaglia, as soon as possible to find out if you’re a candidate for these long-lasting and reliable restorations. Please call Tenaglia Smiles at (517) 347-6733 or contact us online to request a dental implant consultation today.