Dental Implants: Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Patients in Vancouver WA

Choosing dental implants for tooth restoration is a big decision, and Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry wants to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Keep reading for answers to frequently asked questions about dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are typically titanium rods with crowns that are placed into the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis. This can be a bridge, crown, or denture, and they are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They are also available in metal free options by using ceramic.

Should I choose dental implants?

Every patient’s individual situation needs to be taken into account before recommending any service, but there are many benefits to dental implants. They look just like natural teeth, don’t need to be taken out and cleaned, and will restore complete oral function. Many patients think there is nothing that can be done after tooth loss, but this is not the case when you choose dental implants.

Is dental implant surgery painful?

As with any surgery, many patients have concerns about how painful the procedure will be. With an experienced dentist like Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry, the pain associated with this state-of-the-art procedure is typically minimal. We use a local anesthetic during the procedure to minimize the pain. You may feel some discomfort for a couple days after the surgery, but it is minimal and easily managed.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

If you have good overall health, you are most likely a prime candidate for dental implant surgery. We’ll conduct a thorough examination and evaluation of your oral health before surgery, so any existing health conditions can be managed, discussed, or solved. If you’re not healthy enough to undergo dental implant surgery, Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry can recommend alternative options to restore your missing teeth.

How long does it take to heal from dental implant surgery?

This can vary significantly from patient to patient, and it also depends on how well the aftercare is completed. Typically, the entire process from initial examination to the final restoration can take anywhere from 4-6 months.

Are there any risks with dental implants?

Dental implants are a very successful solution, especially when installed by a seasoned dental professional. Although there have been cases of dental implants that have failed, this was mostly due to the low quality of the materials used and the lack of experience of the professional performing the surgery.

Follow-up care is also extremely important. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular cleanings will diminish risks associated with the procedure.

How long can dental implants last?

Assuming you choose the right dental professional, eat a healthy diet, keep all follow-up visits, and maintain excellent oral hygiene, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime.

How much do dental implants cost?

Generally speaking, a single implant will cost around $2,500. If bone grafting is needed, it can cost more. For a full mouth implant restoration, the cost can be anywhere from $25,000 to $55,000. This is highly variable and depends upon a number of factors. *Beware of dental offices offering implants for less than $2,000. The expertise and quality of materials will most likely not be adequate for such an important procedure.

Does insurance cover dental implants?

Always check with your insurance provider when evaluating your financial options. As dental implants become more common, more options are available for managing the cost.

Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry is always happy to answer any dental implant questions you may have, and we provide dental implant consultations. Don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment!