What is a Dental Implant?
Dental Implants are small screws that replace the root of a tooth and restore the physical appearance and function of the tooth. At Smile Innovations, we offer a permanent solution for our patients with partial or full tooth loss. Implants are integrated into your jaw and will naturally bond with your mouth.
Dental implants have three parts:
- The Implant: The implant is a titanium screw that acts as a root.
- The Abutment: This is a permanent connector that supports the replacement crown.
- The Crown: The part of the tooth is made of porcelain to mimic and act like your permanent teeth.
For residents in Tempe, dental implants are just one way to improve your smile and confidence. We are proud to use The Galileos Implant Software with 3D from Sirona. This software makes implantation easier and more efficient for our patients. Galileos Implant Software uses colored visualization of the nerve canal and shows depictions of the bones in all dimensions, allowing the implant to be ideally adapted to the patients anatomy.
Smile Innovations has found that The Galileos Implant Software ensures efficiency and safety because of the high level of planning and visualization this software offers. Now, more implants can be placed because surgical implants are visible and less invasive.
Our professional staff works with each patient to find just the right solution for your dental needs. After your free consultation we will talk with you about all available options and will find what works best for you. We understand that you need to get your problem fixed as soon as possible, so we offer weekend appointments to fit with your busy schedule and lifestyle. When it comes to determining the cost of services, it is important for you to note that we accept all PPO insurance and offer Care Credit for our patients.
Our goal is to make coming to our office easy for each and every person in your family. Throughout the dental implant process we will keep you informed of your progress and make sure that you are comfortable with each stage. To find out more about dental implants and services, call us today.
Candidates for Dental implants
Before a dental implant is placed, radiographs and a treatment plan will be developed to see whether you are a good candidate. A good candidate must be in good oral and medical health and have adequate bone for the dental implant to integrate. Your dentist will determine if you have gum disease and your chewing forces.
Please tell your dentist if you:
- are a smoker
- had a recent heart attack,
- stroke, or valve replacement,
- bleeding disorders
- cancer treatment (chemo/radiation therapy),
- or taking bisphosphonate drugs (Actonel, Aredia. Boniva, Fosamx, Zometa, Bonefos, Ostac, Skelid, Didronel, and others)
Steps for Dental Implant Treatment
- Consultation and Treatment Plan
- Dental Implant surgery. The gums will be flapped and an implant or implants will be placed. A restoration might be also delivered if your treatment plans require it.
- In 3-6 months, depending on your healing time, the abutment and crown/denture will be placed.
- For implant overdentures, an addition 3-5 appointments will be made to fit and adjust the fit and bite.
Common Questions
Is the treatment painful?
The placement of a dental implant requires surgery. Typically, there will be slight discomfort, and the pain will depend on how well your body will heal. Pain medication and an antibiotic will be given to make your surgery more comfortable.
How long do implants last?
Caring for implants is just like caring for your own natural teeth. You will follow the basic oral hygiene routine. which include brushing, flossing and regular dental check ups.
How much is a Dental Implant?
The materials used to place the dental implant and the dental implants itself are expensive and customized to the individual. There is also a fee for the actual surgery and restoration. Your dentist or his/her staff will go over your needs and let you know what your financial obligation will be. You have the right to know the cost prior to your dental treatment.
Will my insurance pay for my dental implants?
Your Insurance will cover for what your policy allows. The insurance is a contract between your employer and the dentist. Many insurances will have a maximum (typically $1500-2000) and limitations such as waiting periods, exclusions, missing tooth clauses, and downgrades. Insurance will pay for a less expensive alternative, such as a denture or a bridge. Ultimately, you are responsible for your dental treatment. There are many financial programs that we offer that make your treatment more affordable.