What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant actually refers to a small, biocompatible titanium post that is surgically implanted in the jaw bone. This post will serve as the artificial root for the prosthetic tooth. The dental implant is restored with a dental crown if you are missing a single tooth, with a dental bridge if you are missing several teeth in a row, or with a denture if you are missing a whole row of teeth.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
After the comprehensive evaluation, Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn will help to determine what your best treatment option will be. Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn offer dental implants in their Charleston, SC dentist office for one or several missing teeth. We will coordinate the surgical phase of your implant procedure with a local oral surgeon who will perform the implantation of the post.
Generally, a period of 3-6 months of recovery is necessary for all soft tissues to heal and the post to integrate into the bone. The final restoration, a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture, will be placed in our Charleston dentist office after the post has been fully integrated. In some cases, we may be able to provide a temporary restoration while the implant heals.
Does dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
Everyone’s dental insurance is different and coverage will vary depending on your plan. Dental insurance is designed to cover routine care, dental emergencies, and basic dental care. Typically, dental insurance will not cover dental implant placement. Some may cover the dental restoration (the dental crown, dental bridge, or denture), or the tooth extraction if it is required.
We are happy to pre-estimate your portion of the total cost of the dental implants and file your dental insurance for you. West Ashley Family Dentistry offers convenient payment options, including financing, to make budgeting for dental implants as easy as possible.
Why should I choose dental implants over other dental restoration options?
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option to preserve the jaw bone, preserve the health of the surrounding teeth and give you back full chewing function. A dental implant will look, feel, fit and function just like your natural teeth and require very little extra care.
When getting a dental bridge, the surrounding healthy teeth require grinding down in order to provide a place to attach the bridge. There is no need to damage healthy teeth to get dental implants.
Am I A Candidate For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are for people who are missing one tooth or who are missing several or all their teeth. Dental implants are for patients who are healthy overall and have healthy bone structure whether they are young or old. Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will perform a comprehensive exam in their Charleston, SC dentist office to make sure you qualify for dental implants.
How does the cost of Dental Implants compare to dentures and dental bridges?
Dentures and dental bridges cost significantly less than dental implants upfront. Dentures and bridges require a lot of care though and will eventually need to be replaced, realigned, or rebased over time. This cost can exceed the cost of dental implants easily over the years depending on the wear and tear. Dental implants cost more but are a permanent solution and look just like your natural teeth. If cared for properly, they will last forever.