Dental Implants

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. The dental implant itself, is an artificial root that is placed in the bone to hold a replacement tooth (dental crown), bridge or denture.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

The ideal candidate for a dental implant is missing one or more teeth and is otherwise in good health with good supporting bone structure. Teeth may be lost as a result of trauma, gum disease, tooth decay or other reasons. To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Hoard will perform a comprehensive evaluation. You must be committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure the long-term success of dental implants.

What is the Cost of Dental Implants

Dental implants tend to be more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, however, they provide unmatched strength and durability. It is reasonable to expect a dental implant to last for 10 – 20 years. Dental implants are more favorable than bridgework because adjacent teeth aren’t compromised.

We work closely with each patient to educate them on their options and help them make the best decision. Our office does offer financing for elective procedures through CareCredit, with low, monthly payments to make paying for dental implants manageable.

What is the Process for Dental Implants?

Once you are determined to be a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Hoard will work up a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Hoard takes a multidisciplinary approach to implant dentistry. Working with local periodontist, Dr. Jeffry Thomas and orthodontist, Dr. Todd Rankin, Dr. Hoard is able to achieve predictable results.

In most cases, Dr. Thomas will place the implant, which is left to heal over the course of 3 – 6 months. In the case of a single tooth replacement, a dental crown will be fabricated at a dental laboratory to Dr. Hoard’s exact specifications. If you are replacing several missing teeth, a dental bridge, partial denture or full denture may be used to replace teeth.

When the dental implant has integrated into the bone, the gum tissue covering the post will be removed to expose the new root. The restoration will be secured to the artificial root and checked for comfortable fit.

How Long do Dental Implants Last?

With proper care that includes regular at home care and routine professional visits, dental implants can last 10 – 20 years or more.

Replacing missing teeth is extremely important. Once a tooth is lost, the bone begins to deteriorate. Also, the gum tissue is exposed and more prone to gum disease. Adjacent teeth may shift, causing problems with alignment and in some cases leading to TMJ disorders. While there are a number of excellent options for replacing missing teeth, none match the long term success of dental implants.

Contact us to learn more about dental implants and find out if they are right for you.