Reviewed By Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They provide a long-lasting, natural-looking replacement option that can improve your oral health and quality of life.
We understand that dental implants are a big investment and naturally, you want to have all the necessary information before making a decision. This article is dedicated to answering frequently asked questions about dental implants, helping you to make an informed decision about your oral health.
So let’s get started!
1. How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary significantly based on several factors, including geographical location, the dental clinic, and the specific needs of your case. The figures we provide here are what we charge at our oral surgery office and do not reflect what other surgeons may charge. A single implant bundle starts at $3,500. A full arch bundle starts at $15,000. For a complete breakdown of what this includes, please reference our Affordable Dental Implants page.
When comparing costs for dental implants, remember that you are investing in a service rather than a product. Dental implants may have a higher upfront cost than other options, but they are a long-term investment in your oral health and often end up costing less in the long run.
2. Does Dental Insurance or Medicare Cover Dental Implants?
Dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of dental implants. However, some medical insurance plans may provide partial coverage for dental implant procedures that are deemed medically necessary. It is always best to check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.
Medicare does not cover the cost of dental implants. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage for certain aspects of the implant surgery. Coverage varies, so check with your provider before committing to the procedure.
We will work with you to help you understand your coverage and options for payment plans to make dental implants more affordable.
3. Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants are generally regarded as a safe procedure with a high success rate, often upwards of 95%. The success of dental implants largely depends on the skill of the surgeon. Make sure you choose a qualified dental implant specialist that has adequate training and experience. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, but these are rare and typically manageable with proper care and maintenance.
4. Do Dental Implants Hurt?
The dental implant procedure is performed using local anesthesia and sedation. This means that you will not feel any pain during the surgery. After the procedure, there may be some discomfort and swelling, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
5. How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper maintenance and care, dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution. The implant itself can last a lifetime, while the crown may need to be replaced every 10–15 years. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining the longevity of your dental implants. Factors that influence the longevity of dental implants include overall health, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices such as smoking.
6. What Are Dental Implants Made Of?
Dental implants consist of three parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the crown or denture. The implant post is usually made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the jawbone. The abutment connects the implant to the crown or denture, and it is typically made of titanium, zirconia, or porcelain. The crown or denture can be made of various materials such as ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or acrylic resin.
7. How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take?
The initial surgery for dental implants typically takes 1–2 hours per implant. However, the overall timeline for dental implant procedures can vary depending on individual cases and factors such as healing time and the need for additional procedures like bone grafting.
Once the implant is surgically placed into the bone, it will need time to integrate with the bone in a process called osseointegration. You may be given a temporary restoration during this healing period. After osseointegration is complete, the abutment and final restoration can be placed. If no additional procedures are needed, the whole process from start to finish can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
8. How Long Does It Take for Dental Implants to Heal?
There are two stages to healing. Healing from the surgery itself takes about 7–10 days. During this time, it is important to follow post-operative instructions and take any prescribed medication as directed.
The second stage of healing is the integration process where the implant fuses with the jawbone. This typically takes around 3–6 months, but can vary depending on individual factors such as overall health and bone density.
9. Who Can Do Dental Implants?
Dental implants should be performed by licensed dental professionals with specific training in implant dentistry. Periodontists, prosthodontists and oral surgeons are the most qualified, as they have received extensive education and hands-on experience in implant dentistry during their residency training.
For example, after dental school, Dr. Kesecker attended a one-year Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery internship at the Oral Surgical Institute in Nashville, TN. He completed specialty training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Denver Health Medical Center and the University of Colorado in Denver, CO.
It is important to do your research and choose a reputable and experienced dental professional for your implant procedure to increase the chances of success.
Remember: Dental implants are a surgical procedure that demands specialized education, training, and experience to ensure the best outcomes.
10. Why are dental implants the best tooth replacement option?
Dental implants mimic the look and function of natural teeth, making them the most natural and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. They also help maintain the structure of your jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial aesthetics. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants do not require any alteration to adjacent healthy teeth, keeping them intact and healthy.
Because they mimic natural teeth, your lifestyle will not be limited by what you can eat or do, unlike other tooth replacement options. When considering your options, think about what foods you enjoy and your hobbies and how the tooth replacement option will affect them.
Alright, there you have it, 10 FAQs about dental implants answered! We hope this has helped to provide you with a better understanding of this popular and effective tooth replacement option. If you have any additional questions or would like to schedule a dental implant consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Legacy Surgery in Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA.
For our Harrisonburg location, call (540) 437-1230. For our Staunton location, call (540) 213-8750. You may also complete the online inquiry form, and we will get back to you.
Be sure to check out the other blogs in our dental implant series linked below.
- Dental Implants: Your Guide to a Confident, Restored Smile
- Parts of a Dental Implant: What Makes Up Your New Tooth?
- Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Find out here!