What are dental implants and how do they work?
Well, to put it simply, dental implants are the best replacement you can have for a missing tooth. Dental implants come in the form of a tiny screw. They're about this big, and they can actually get anchored into your jawbone, and then you can attach teeth to them, you can attach dentures to them. They're a great way to secure what feels like natural teeth.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
I think there's been a lot of discussion out there about, oh, you may be a candidate, you may not be a candidate, so people are often worried if they qualify or if they're a candidate. I think most of those concerns center around their health and maybe the quality of their bone or their bone density. The truth is, most people are candidates for dental implants, unless you have some major health concerns going on, or unless there's certain things happening to your jawbone or your bone density, you probably are a candidate for dental implants. Very few people are not candidates.
I'm in pretty good health, but I am 75 or 80 years old, so I must not be a candidate. Is that true?
That's not true at all. Your body has the potential for healing throughout your life, and while it's true that your body may work a little bit differently now, you are probably still a candidate for dental implants, regardless of your age.
Are there people who are too young to be candidates for dental implants?
Yes, there are certain people, because they're too young, they may not be candidates for dental implants, specifically patients that are not done growing. If you are a 17-year-old boy, or if you're an 18-year-old girl, you may not be a candidate quite yet for a dental implant until you're finished growing. Now when I say finished growing, I don't mean that you're not growing any taller. What I mean by that is your face is not done developing, and typically girls don't reach that full facial development until they're about age 19 or 20, and boys may not be until a little bit later, age 20 or 21.
What health factors could disqualify someone from getting a dental implant?
One of the biggest health factors that will disqualify you from getting a dental implant, and this is sometimes common, is uncontrolled diabetes. So if you're a diabetic and you have diabetes that's uncontrolled, if your A1c is above a 7 or a 7.5, let's get that under control. Pretty much an A1c of 8 is the highest we'll go for a dental implant surgery, and that's in rare cases. We prefer that to be 7.5 or 7 or even lower.
What about smoking and dental implants?
Now the other health concern that we often talk about with dental implants is smoking. Now just because you're a smoker, it doesn't mean it disqualifies you from getting a dental implant, but you do need to be aware that if you smoke, it changes the way your mouth heals, and so you could be at higher risk for a dental implant failure, which means the dental implant doesn't really take or your bone doesn't really heal that well around it. So smokers are at higher risk, but there's a lot of things we can do to work around that. So just because you smoke doesn't mean you're not a candidate.
What is the difference between mini dental implants and standard dental implants?
Now mini dental implants came out years ago, and they were aimed at solving the problem of people that had jawbone that was too thin. You could put in a very narrow or a small screw into the jawbone, and it would work pretty well. So mini implants took off, they became very popular, and I think one of the reasons they became popular is because it's a lot easier to put a small screw into the jawbone than trying to put a larger screw in exactly the right position. So for dentists or oral surgeons, there was a nice margin of error with mini dental implants. Now there are some problems with mini dental implants, particularly if you have a very skinny screw, think of it like that, it's not quite as strong as a wider one. So the general rule is mini implants are great when you need them, but if you don't need a mini dental implant, we'd rather put in a standard size implant because it's stronger and it may have potential to last longer.
How long do dental implants last?
Well in the ideal case, if you heal well and your dental implant fully integrates into your jawbone, that means it healed very well and it's very strong in your jawbone, that implant will probably last you the rest of your life. I tell my patients if all goes well, this is the last thing you're going to need for this tooth. Now that doesn't mean dental implants are maintenance free, it's just like anything else. Just because a dental implant will likely last you the rest of your life, it doesn't mean you never need to have a cleaning again. You still need to come in and have routine cleanings. You can still have gum problems around dental implants. So just like everything else, they do need to be maintained. But the nice thing is dental implants don't get cavities and they may be less prone to gum disease. Although again, gum disease is a rare animal because you can technically still get gum disease around dental implants because your natural gums are what surround the implant. So maintenance is important and depending on what kind of dental implant you get, you should understand what maintenance is required throughout the process or throughout your lifetime after getting a dental implant.
What does the process for getting a dental implant look like?
Well dental implants, it kind of sounds scary, it might sound like a really big deal. But I'll tell you an experience I just had yesterday with a patient. She came in at around 8 o'clock in the morning and she was leaving at 8.45. And that included all the time we needed to fully get her numb, to do the entire implant procedure where we installed the implant into her jawbone. And as she was getting up from the dental chair, she said, is that it? Just like that? And I said, just like that. So dental implant surgery, even though it technically is a surgery, it is a pretty minor surgery. It is of course outpatient. You come in, the procedure takes about an hour. And think of it like this, we need to create a small opening in your gums. We need to create a small hole, we call that a pilot hole. And then we install what looks like a screw. It's a post that is a screw. And that just gets tightened in. And overall, you can do that with just simple numbing. You don't have to be asleep. Although some people, if they have severe dental anxiety, they may prefer being asleep. But most people don't mind it being awake. In fact, I've heard from people that dental implants hurt less than actually getting a tooth extracted. Dental implants hurt less or sometimes are less anxious than even getting a dental procedure like a filling or a crown. Reason being, a lot of people are scared about the noises that happen with say dental work, that kind of high-pitched drilling sound. And you don't really get a lot of that during the dental implant procedure because we use a separate set of tools for that. So overall, I think the surgical procedure is fairly simple and it's fairly routine. Especially if it's planned well on the front end with proper x-rays, especially 3D x-rays, so that your dentist or oral surgeon can really plan out the procedure and there's no surprises during the process.
What are dental implants, and when are they recommended?
A dental implant is the best way to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants are small devices made of titanium, shaped like a post or screw. The screw is implanted into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants are recommended any time you're missing a tooth. However, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. If you have an undiagnosed or uncontrolled medical condition, you may need to address that before receiving a dental implant. The most common issue we encounter is uncontrolled diabetes. While many diabetics have successful dental implants, uncontrolled diabetes can affect your ability to heal and your immune system. It's essential to have diabetes checked and controlled before receiving a dental implant.
What are the risks associated with getting a dental implant?
One of the great things about dental implants is that there are very few risks. The risks associated with getting a dental implant are similar to those of having a tooth extracted or undergoing any other surgery. Although risks and complications are rare, they include bleeding, infection, pain, and swelling.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
A common concern is whether a dental implant will fail. Dental implants are successful more than 97% of the time. When they do fail, it's usually because the person did not follow post-operative instructions or did not meet the medical requirements for getting the implant, such as having uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions. For a healthy individual, dental implant failure is not typically a concern.
What are the benefits of getting a dental implant?
The benefits of receiving a dental implant far outweigh the risks, especially for healthy individuals. Dental implants restore proper chewing and improve facial features. Missing teeth can lead to a lack of support for lips and cheeks, causing a sunken appearance. Dental implants enhance the look of a person's face and smile while allowing you to chew naturally, just as if you had your real teeth.
What types of dental implants are available?
There are various types of dental implants, depending on individual needs. A person may be missing a single tooth and receive one implant to replace it. Others missing multiple teeth might receive several implants. For those with ill-fitting or loose dentures, dental implants can be placed to anchor the denture securely.
How does a person decide what type of dental implants are right for them?
It's important to consult with your dentist to discuss the pros and cons of each option and identify your goals. Together, you can determine the best type of dental implant for your specific situation.
What are the steps involved in getting a dental implant?
When you decide to proceed with a dental implant, the process involves several steps. The first step is the planning phase, which is crucial to avoiding complications. This phase includes getting a 3D x-ray to provide a blueprint of your jawbone, allowing precise implant placement. After planning, the next step is the procedure itself. On the day of the procedure, we offer various options for comfort, including local anesthesia, sedation, or sleeping through the procedure. A single implant procedure typically takes about an hour. Afterward, you'll receive post-operative instructions to aid your recovery. Patients usually return for a follow-up check a week or two later, which takes about 10 minutes. Most patients take pain medication for two or three days, and it's common to hear that the procedure was less painful than expected.
What are the options for artificial teeth related to dental implants?
There are two options for artificial teeth related to dental implants. The first is a removable option resembling a denture that snaps onto dental implants, providing stability while chewing, talking, and laughing. This option allows for easy cleaning and gum care, as dentures can be removed at night. The second option is a fixed or permanent solution, where teeth are screwed onto the implants and remain in place. This option offers security and allows individuals to eat anything they could with natural teeth without fear of teeth coming loose.
How long will dental implants last?
Generally, dental implants will last the rest of your life, making them a great value. Few things you can purchase or place in your mouth will last a lifetime.
What if I can't afford dental implants?
If you're concerned about the cost of dental implants, Monahan Dentistry and Implant Center offers various financing options through leading companies to find the best deal for you. We also accept most insurance plans, many of which cover dental implants. However, be aware that insurance plans typically have an annual maximum limit, so they may not cover the entire cost of the implant.
If you're ready for more information, please schedule a consultation to discuss your options. Call us at (623) 294-1333. I'm Dr. Monahan, and I look forward to meeting you.
Solutions For Missing Teeth
Monahan Dentistry and Implant Center specializes in dental implants, and we understand that missing teeth can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life. Dental implants have become an increasingly popular solution for those seeking to restore their smile and regain their confidence. If you are looking for the best dental implant services in Arizona, look no further than Monahan Dentistry and Implant Center.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an effective and long-lasting solution for those seeking to replace missing or damaged teeth. They are a great alternative to traditional dentures or bridges, as they provide a more natural look and feel. With dental implants, you can enjoy improved speech, easier eating, and increased confidence in your smile.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure is a multi-step process that involves several appointments. During the first appointment, our dental professionals will examine your mouth and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are, we will take x-rays and impressions of your mouth to create a custom treatment plan.
The second appointment involves the placement of the dental implant into the jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Once the implant is placed, it needs time to fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This can take several months, during which time a temporary crown or bridge may be placed over the implant.
After the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the final step is to place the permanent crown or bridge. This is done by attaching a small connector, called an abutment, to the implant. The crown or bridge is then attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant procedure.
Benefits of Our Dental Implant Services
Monahan Dentistry and Implant Center strives to provide the best possible dental implant services for our patients. Here are just a few of the benefits of choosing our practice for your dental implant needs:
Experienced Professionals - Our dental professionals have years of experience in placing dental implants, ensuring that you receive the best possible care.
Personalized Treatment - We create custom treatment plans for each of our patients, ensuring that your dental implant procedure is tailored to your unique needs.
State-of-the-Art Equipment - We use the latest dental technology to ensure that your dental implant procedure is as comfortable and efficient as possible.
Affordable Prices - We understand that dental implants can be costly, which is why we offer competitive pricing and financing options to help make dental implants more accessible to our patients.
Monahan Dentistry and Implant Center In Mesa, Arizona
If you are looking for the best dental implant services in Mesa, Arizona, look no further than our practice. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care to our patients and ensuring that you leave our office with a beautiful, confident smile. Don't let missing teeth hold you back - schedule your dental implant consultation today.
Dental Implant Testimonial:
Dr. Monahan is putting in some dental implants, three of them on the upper jaw, and the last one to go in was around 10 days ago. I felt absolutely nothing during the procedure itself. Nothing for the rest of the afternoon. A wee bit of a tinge of soreness the next day, but that was gone by the evening. This was a very painless procedure.