Dental Implants FAQs

What are dental implants?
An implant is an artificial tooth root made of special surgical-grade titanium, manufactured to precise specifications and under strictly controlled, sterile conditions. Once inserted into the jawbone beneath the gum surface, bone fuses with the implant over a course of 3 to 4 months. Once the bone bonds to the implant, it provides a secure foundation for a custom crown or other prosthetic. Dental implants can replace a single tooth or a full set of teeth.

Since implanted teeth are fixed in the mouth rather than removable like dentures, they provide all of the benefits of a natural smile, such as eating and smiling with confidence. If you suffer from ill-fitting full or partial dentures, or if you’re missing teeth or need to have a tooth extracted, don’t hesitate to call and schedule an appointment to see if dental implants are right for you.

What are the advantages of implants?
Implants provide a solid foundation for replacement teeth. They also:

• Improve your appearance
• Increase comfort
• Boost self-confidence
• Allow you to speak with greater clarity
• Enable you to more fully participate in physical activities

Dental implants are stronger and more durable than their restorative counterparts (bridges and dentures), because they offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. Additionally, implants may be used in conjunction with other restorative procedures for maximum effectiveness. For example, an implant can anchor a dental bridge or replace missing back teeth needed for a bridge. Implants can also increase denture stability and reduce gum tissue irritation.

Procedural advancements, including the development of narrower “mini” implants, mean that more people than ever before are candidates for dental implants. However, implants may not be right for every situation.

will help you determine the appropriate replacement tooth solution for you.

Is implant dentistry covered by insurance?
Today, many insurance companies cover dental implants as well as the replacement teeth that they secure. Our insurance specialists can help determine if you have coverage and, if so, how much.

How long does treatment take?
Treatment can take from six weeks to six months, or, in some cases, as much as 18 months to complete, depending on your individual needs and general dental health. But at no time during the process are you without teeth. We’ll provide you with temporary teeth for the duration of treatment.

Does the implant process hurt?
Anesthetics and sedation are used to alleviate any discomfort during surgery. Postoperative discomfort is similar to that following tooth extraction. Medication is provided to control soreness.

Is there a chance of rejection?
Dental implants are made of a metal that is biocompatible with the body so that there is no risk of rejection. There are some diseases, however, that can affect the healing process and the long-term success of implants.

Are implants right for me?
The odds are favorable that you are a candidate for implant dentistry whether you are missing one, a few, or all of your teeth and whether you are a teenager or adult. Good oral health and adequate jawbone structure are required for implants. Dr. Ragnell can determine if implants are right for you.