Dental implant services in Lakeland

What Is Dental Implant Surgery?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth that looks and functions the same as a natural tooth, and it’s surgically implanted into the jawbone, so you needn’t worry about it slipping or falling out. Usually, a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone; this is called an endosteal implant. If you lack enough jawbone to support the implant, we can do a bone graft. If you’re not a good candidate for a bone graft, then we can insert a subperiosteal implant, which is placed between the jawbone and the gum. You may also be eligible for mini implants or an implant-supported bridge. During your initial consultation in our Lakeland office, your dentist will advise you whether you’re a good candidate for an endosteal implant or if you’ll need a subperiosteal implant. Sometimes patients only need a single implant and other times, more are needed to give you full biting power. To schedule a consultation for dental implants in our Lakeland office, give us a call.

Are Implants Costly?

Your dental implants cost will be unique to you because your needs are unique to you. Factors that will influence your final dental implants cost include the type of implant you need, any additional work you need, the materials used for the post and crown, and any insurance benefits you have. We realize that implants may be more costly initially, but most of our patients tell us that over time, their implants were more cost-effective than other types of artificial teeth. If you’re interested in implants, but the dental implants cost is a significant drawback, then call us to learn about our affordable financing options.

Is Dental Implants Insurance Available?

Most insurance companies don’t provide dental implants insurance in their dental benefits, but your plan provider is the best source of information about your plan benefits. However, we’re happy to explain any benefits that are unclear, and we work with our patients to maximize the benefits of their plan. If you want more information on our flexible financing options, then call our Lakeland office today and let us help you.

What Happens During the Dental Implants Procedure?

Each dental implants procedure will be unique to the patient. However, you can expect the following general procedure when you come to our office for implants:

• When you come to our Lakeland office for your initial appointment, your dentist will determine if you’re a good candidate for implants. If so, we’ll determine the type that will work best for you
• Then, we’ll prep the site and surgically install the implant into your jawbone. Since this is a surgical procedure, it requires anesthesia, so you should probably arrange for transportation home after the procedure is over.
• Over the next few or several months, your implant and your jawbone will fuse together in a process called osseointegration.
• After your placement site has completely healed, you’ll return, and we’ll install the abutment on the implant.
• Next, we’ll take measurements of your abutment, post, and gum, and then we’ll order your custom crown.
• When your custom crown arrives, you’ll return to our office to have it installed.

You should experience only minimal pain that should be alleviated by your local anesthetic and over-the-counter pain medications.

Are There Special Benefits to Dental Implants?

The most commonly reported benefit of implants is their appearance and ease of use. Since implants are permanently installed, you don’t have to worry that they’ll slip or fall out. Since they’re custom-fitted to your mouth, they should be comfortable, and they require no special care or maintenance.

How Do I Care for My Dental Implants?

Your implants only require the same good oral hygiene habits that your natural teeth require. There are no adhesives or soaking solutions. Simply brush twice each day at a minimum, floss at least once each day, preferably before bedtime. Use an antibacterial mouthwash at least once daily, and your implants should last for years, decades, or even for your lifetime. Many of our patients tell us that over time, with good oral hygiene, their dental implants were the most cost-effective option and one of the best investments they’ve ever made.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Your Affordable Dental Implants?

To be a good candidate for implants, you must have sufficient jawbone to accommodate the titanium post. You should be in good physical health and have good oral health. If you have cavities or gingivitis, then those will need to be addressed before proceeding with the implants. You should also be able to undergo anesthesia since this is a surgical procedure. If you have any questions, we’ll be happy to answer them, and your dentist will provide you with more detailed information during your initial consultation.

How Long Do Implants Last?

With good oral hygiene and barring any traumatic event, your implants should last for years, decades, or even for the rest of your life. One of the advantages of implants is that they’re very durable. They also look very natural, and they require no special upkeep. If you’d like more information on our affordable dental implants, then call DSC Oral Surgery & Dental Implants of Lakeland at (863) 594-1760, and we’ll be happy to help you. We look forward to working with you.