What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root surgically implanted into your jawbone. It is a popular tooth replacement option after tooth loss or extraction.
Dental implants have resulted in successful dental restorations for over 30 years. More than 5 million dental implants are placed in the U.S. every year.
Dental Implant Structure: How They Work
The body of a dental implant consists of three pieces that serve different functions:
- The implant (or screw) serves as the tooth’s artificial root.
- The abutment is the connecting post between the implant screw and crown.
- The crown is the ‘fake’ tooth that rests on top of the abutment. They match the shape and look of your natural teeth.
4 Types of Dental Implants
There are different types of dental implants available:
1. Single Tooth Implant
A single dental implant is ideal when one tooth is missing, and you want to replace it for aesthetics, comfort, and function. It requires one dental crown that connects to the implant screw.
The average cost of a single tooth implant can range from $3,000 to $4,000.
2. Implant-Supported Bridge
Implant-supported bridges are ideal for people with several missing teeth. The implant acts as an anchor for the bridge (instead of a natural tooth).
A fixed dental bridge restores function by preventing other teeth from moving. It also improves eating and speaking functions.
An implant-supported bridge costs between $5,000 and $16,000.
3. All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 implants are recommended when a patient is looking for a secure solution for many missing teeth. This solution restores your entire upper or lower jaw (or both arches).
This is a permanent restoration. However, the overdenture can be removed for cleaning and dental exams.
The average cost ranges from $15,000 to $20,000 per arch.
4. 3-on-6 Dental Implants
An alternative to an implant-retained denture is a 3-on-6 implant. It consists of three individual dental bridges attached to six dental implants.
The cost of 3-on-6 implants can range from $10,000 to $15,000 per arch.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants have their benefits. However, they can also come with disadvantages.
Here are the benefits of dental implants:
- Allows you to chew and speak normally
- Designed to look like your natural teeth, improving your self-esteem
- Reduces stress on your remaining natural teeth by offering independent support
- Preserves bone, reducing the appearance of aging
- Helps prevent loss of jaw height
- Easy to clean and care for
- With proper care, implants can last between 15 and 25 years
Here are the disadvantages of getting dental implants:
- Will not whiten like your natural teeth
- Requires an invasive surgery for placement
- They are expensive (but the long-term benefits are usually worth it)
- Bone grafting may be necessary before placement if you do not have enough natural bone remaining
Dental Implant Techniques & Materials
Dental implants come in two different forms, including:
Endosteal Implant
An endosteal implant (root form implant) is the most commonly used today. It is made with titanium, small screws, and alloplastic material, which refers to an artificial tissue graft.
Endosteal implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Over time, the implants bond with the natural bone.
Subperiosteal Implant
Subperiosteal implants are extremely rare. However, they are a better option for people with insufficient natural jawbones to support endosteal implants.
A subperiosteal implant is placed under the gums (on or above the jawbone). It is not surgically inserted into the jawbone.
Dental Implant Procedure: Step-By-Step
Dental implant procedures are a type of outpatient surgery. Patients can return home on the same day of surgery.
The procedure can take many months to complete due to the healing process and artificial tooth (crown) placement. Professionals who can perform a dental implant surgery include:
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
- Periodontists
- Prosthodontists
The procedure is separated into multiple steps, depending on the number of implants a patient needs:
1. Remove the Tooth
If the damaged tooth is still in your mouth, the dentist will extract it. This step is not necessary if your tooth is already missing.
2. Grafting and Jawbone Preparation
Patients who undergo implant surgery may have thin or soft jawbones. In this case, bone grafting will be necessary.
It improves the quantity of bone and ensures the procedure doesn’t fail. The healing process for bone grafts takes a few months before a dental implant can be placed.
3. Implant Placement
During the actual procedure, the oral surgeon exposes the bone by cutting the gums.
An oral surgeon or periodontist drills holes into the bone. Then they position the implant (a post) deep into the bone, which functions as the tooth’s root.
If a front tooth is being restored, the dentist will fill the space with a temporary removable solution while the implant heals below the gums. If it is a back tooth, they will not place anything over it.
4. Healing and Growth
Osseointegration begins after the metal implant is placed in your jawbone. This is when the supporting bone begins to bond with the implant.
This process can take several months to complete and ensures the base is sturdy enough to support an artificial tooth (dental crown).
5. Abutment Placement (Crown Preparation)
After the healing process is complete, your dentist will place an abutment on top of the implant post.
The abutment extends the implant above the soft tissue (gums). This step allows for easy placement of the dental crown.
6. Crown Placement (Artificial Tooth)
Once the implant grows into the bone and is strong enough to support chewing, your dentist will make new impressions of your mouth.
A dental technician will create a custom dental crown in a lab. The dental crown looks similar to your natural teeth and sits on the abutment (connector). It becomes the only visible part of the implant.
7. Aftercare
Pain medications and antibiotics are usually prescribed post-op. It is important to only eat soft foods and practice excellent oral care habits during the healing process.
Restrict the intake of alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco to see the best results. Regular check-ups are necessary during the first few months after the procedure. You should also keep up with regular dental exams post-surgery.
Side Effects and Complications of Dental Implant Surgery
Most implant procedures are successful. However, there is still a risk of incorrect healing.
To reduce this risk, practice good oral health care at home, including proper nutrition, brushing, and flossing.
As with any dental surgery, minor discomfort is normal. Common side effects(that aren’t threatening to the implant) include:
- Gum and face swelling
- Bruises on the skin or gums
- Minor bleeding
- Pain where the implant was placed
More serious complications that can develop after an implant is placed include:
- Damage to your surrounding teeth, gums, and/or blood vessels
- Infection at the implant site
- Prolonged bleeding
- Sinus issues and pressure (if the implant is placed in your upper jaw)
- Fractured jaw and jaw pain
- Nerve damage, which can lead to tingling in the mouth or lips
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants cost between $1,000 and $4,500 per tooth.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
Some insurance plans cover dental implants, while others do not or only cover part of the procedure. For example, some dental insurance plans may cover the crown attached to the implant.
Some medical insurance plans will cover part of the surgery if the procedure is medically necessary.
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