5 Essential Things to Know Before Getting Single or Multiple Dental Implants

Our team at Jamie J. Alexander D.D.S., P.A. intimately understands the toll that the loss of even just one tooth can take on a patient’s life. We also appreciate that those reading this article may be struggling with their existing dentures. Perhaps your denture is loose, or you don’t like how it looks. If these scenarios hit close to home, Dr. Alexander and our professionals are excited to introduce you to a modern solution to replace one tooth, many teeth, or all of the teeth in a dental arch (jaw): dental implants. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through five essential things to know about getting implants, which are designed to support a natural-looking smile and comfortable and healthy function.

1 – Single Versus Multiple Implants

Implants are not the replacement tooth; they are a component of it. This advanced type of tooth replacement is generally made up of the implant post, abutment, and restoration. The post functions as a tooth root to stabilize the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture). The abutment connects the post and the restoration. For single tooth replacement, one post is connected to a crown. If you have more extensive needs, a bridge or denture is connected to more than one implant. The total number of implants depends on your needs, including the number of missing teeth that must be replaced. 

2 – Good Candidates 

Dr. Alexander considers your oral health, medical history, lifestyle, and other personal factors before recommending treatment options. You may be a good candidate for implant-supported restorations if you:

• Have healthy gums
• Are committed to good oral care at home and courtesy of our professionals.
• Have adequate healthy bone in the jaw to support the implant(s).
• Are in generally good health, and any existing medical conditions are well-managed.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle; i.e., no smoking/use of tobacco products.

Before and After Actual Patient Results

3 – Step-by-Step Process

While every treatment plan is unique because no two patients are exactly alike, some stages are generally shared by all patients. First, no treatment would be complete without an initial consultation, which includes a complete exam and diagnostic imaging. Second, some patients may require pre-treatment; for instance, bone enhancement procedures to address the loss of supportive tissue in the jaw. The third step is the actual placement of the implant(s). It’s a minor surgical procedure where the post is positioned in the jaw. The fourth step, healing, occurs over the course of months as the bone gradually integrates with the implant. This step provides a solid foundation for the implant and restoration. The fifth step may involve applying the connector piece (abutment). Impressions are made, which guide the fabrication of the final crown, bridge, or denture. The last step involves actually connecting the restoration to the implant/abutment. 

4 – Costs and Value

Costs vary depending on factors such as the number of implants placed, the restoration required, and pre-treatment procedures. Insurance coverage can also vary widely depending on the details associated with your specific plan. We encourage you to consider the long-term value and durability of implants and not just the upfront cost. With proper care, implant-supported teeth can last for many years (even the rest of your life). Other types of restorations, such as conventional removable dentures and bridges, may require more frequent adjustments and replacement. 

5 – Care 

While implants/restorations do not decay like natural teeth, the surrounding gums and tissues can become inflamed or infected if you do not keep plaque build-up and harmful bacteria under control. So, practicing good brushing and flossing habits each day is just as important for your implants as it is for your natural teeth. Pay close attention to tricky areas, such as spaces around implant bridges and dentures that tend to trap food. Good home care does not replace professional visits. During routine checkups, cleanings get rid of hardened plaque deposits that cannot be removed with a regular toothbrush or floss. 

Now that you have a glimpse into implants to replace one tooth or a mouthful of teeth, take the first step toward your happiest, healthiest, and most confident smile – schedule a consultation at the office of  Jamie J. Alexander D.D.S., P.A. Call (561) 739-4778 to speak with a member of our team in Boynton Beach, FL today.

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