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Dental Implants
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Having missing teeth can impact the health of the teeth surrounding the gap. They may shift out of position over time, causing misalignment and an incorrect bite. This, in turn, can affect your ability to chew food, and it can even affect speech.
Missing teeth can also affect the appearance and strength of your jaw. Teeth support bone growth and preservation in the jaw through the stimulation of chewing and biting. Long term, this can result in the deterioration of the bone, a process known as resorption. The outcome is a weaker, less substantial jaw bone.
How Dental Implants Can Help
Since dental implants are surgically implanted and capped with a crown, they look, feel and function very much like natural teeth do.
They can help to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, resolve bite issues or jaw joint pain, and help restore facial tissues and appearance for a more confident and functional smile.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Dr. Tompkins will begin by surgically placing the implant into your jawbone below the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant bonds with the bone and attaches to the gums. This part of the implant procedure is done in a different dental office than Sussex Dental Clinic.
The next appointment will be at Sussex Dental Clinic where Dr. Tompkins will attach the final implant crown to create the look and function of a natural tooth.
Once the procedure is complete, Dr. Tompkins will see patients for referrals.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Sussex Dental Clinic.
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How long does a dental implant last?
If you care for your implant properly, it can last a lifetime. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors including nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for a dental implant just like you care for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure.
There is not usually much discomfort during the healing process. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process can take anywhere from two to nine months to complete. The duration depends on a variety of factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, and the patient's specific needs and treatment plan.
Your dentist will provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.