Dental Implants
Dental implants are a very reliable source for effective tooth replacement. Whether you have lost one tooth or many, implants can provide a permanent solution that looks and functions naturally.
Dental Implants
in Keene & Joshua, TX
Old Betsy Dental provides dental implant services to replace missing teeth, which are most often caused by decay, injury, or disease. Dental implants are man-made roots that can support a manufactured tooth and are a superior option for tooth replacement as they do not require modification of adjacent teeth. Our dental implant treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and condition and may involve a single tooth, multiple teeth, or larger prostheses such as dentures.
Tooth loss can lead to significant negative consequences, such as tooth shifts, jawbone decay, and facial structure loss. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment for missing teeth as soon as possible. If you are interested in learning more about our dental implant services, please contact us at our Keene, TX office at (817) 641-2272 or Joshua, TX office at (817) 295-4500. We encourage you to schedule a consultation to determine if dental implants are the right treatment for your needs.
The Doctors of Old Betsy Dental
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants involve a series of steps to complete the entire procedure. The process may vary depending on the patient’s oral health at the time and whether tooth extraction or bone grafting is necessary. The dental implant procedure includes:
- Consultation and dental exam: We will determine if dental implants are a viable option for you by conducting a thorough dental examination, including digital X-rays.
- Tooth extraction: We may need to remove teeth that will be replaced by implants or perform a dental bone graft in case of bone loss.
- Implant placement: We will surgically place the implant in the bone, cover it with a healing cap, and place a temporary tooth for aesthetic concerns.
- Implant healing: Osseointegration occurs when the jawbone heals around the implant, fusing it and providing a stable base for the new tooth. This process takes 4-6 months.
- Abutment and crown placement: The abutment connects the artificial tooth (crown) to the implant. We will attach the abutment to the implant and place the crown on top of it.
If you are considering dental implants, please contact us today.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
During the dental procedure, local anesthesia is used to minimize pain. This will numb the surrounding nerves, ensuring you won’t feel any pain. Although you may feel some pressure, you should not experience any pain. It’s important to inform your dentist if you experience any discomfort.
After the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort and soreness for a day or two once the numbness subsides. You may experience swelling, pain, or slight bleeding around the implant. Follow the instructions listed below to stay on top of your recovery and minimize discomfort as much as possible.
Pain
Relieving pain at home is going to vary on the severity of pain and issue being dealt with. At home remedies for pain include:
- Pain relievers
- Massaging the affected area, if not painful to apply pressure
- Applying ice or heat packs
- Avoiding hard and chewy foods
Swelling
Applying ice to the swollen area will not only help with pain, but also swelling. Place an ice pack on the affected area for 10 minutes and then remove for 20 minutes. Repeat as needed.
Minor Bleeding
Small amounts of blood in your saliva for a day or two after your procedure is common. If you are experiencing bleeding, gently bite on a gauze pad for 30 minutes. If the bleeding persists for more than a couple of days following the procedure, please contact our office.
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What types of dental implants exist?
There are a variety of dental implant options available, but two of the most frequently used are endosteal implants and all-on-4 implants. Endosteal implants are the more readily available choice, consisting of a titanium metal rod inserted into the jawbone and a supporting post that is specifically designed to secure either a dental crown or a dental bridge. In contrast, all-on-4 implants are a groundbreaking implant system that supports an entire top or bottom denture with just four implants. These implants are strategically positioned to ensure that the replacement teeth remain stable and secure. The use of four implants in all-on-4 implants has numerous benefits, including faster patient recovery and a lower risk of complications due to possible implant failure.
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How much does a dental implant cost?
The cost associated with dental implant procedures are subject to change based on multiple factors, including the number of teeth that require replacement, the degree of insurance coverage, as well as the complexity of the procedure itself. Typically, dental implant costs start at $4,500. This figure only covers the implant component of the procedure and does not factor in the costs associated with the abutment (the connecting piece between the implant and the artificial tooth) or the artificial tooth. It is important to note that these costs are subject to change based on the unique circumstances of each patient and the specific requirements of their treatment plan.
While out-of-pocket costs for patients with dental insurance vary on the particular plan, coverage, and limitations, we’re always happy to provide an estimate of cost based on those factors just after your consultation appointment. For those without dental insurance, we work to keep implants affordable by fixing the implant cost and providing flexible payment plan options.
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Why is one tooth implant so expensive?
The cost of a tooth implant is high due to factors like specialized materials, surgical procedures, customization, laboratory costs, research, post-operative care, and limited insurance coverage. Additionally, geographical location influences the overall expense. Despite the initial cost, dental implants are valued for their durability, function, and aesthetics compared to other tooth replacement options.
