Dental implants are dental prosthetics that involve the surgical placement of artificial teeth roots. These artificial roots are strong and durable, and they serve as anchors for replacement teeth or dental bridges. Dental implants are a great option for patients looking for a replacement solution that is functional, long-lasting, safe, aesthetically pleasing, and effective.

If you have a missing tooth or teeth and are looking for a great restoration option, dental implants may be the right choice to meet your needs. Implants can blend easily with your natural teeth and serve as strong replacements. If you…

  • Were injured
  • Have missing or damaged teeth
  • Wear dentures
  • Suffer from chronic oral health problems

…you may be a good candidate for dental implants.

The materials used for implants are highly compatible with the human body. The two main types of implants are endosteal and subperiosteal. Below is more information about these two types of dental implants…

Endosteal dental implants

Also known as “in the bone” implants, endosteal dental implants involve screws, blades, or cylinders being surgically placed in the jawbone of a patient. These implants can hold one or more false teeth. Endosteal dental implants are common, and they are a great option for patients with dental bridges or removable dentures.

Subperiosteal dental implants

Subperiosteal dental implants are also known as “on the bone” implants. They are called this because they are placed on top of the jawbone. The dental prosthetics are held in place by metal frameworks that stick out from the gumline. Subperiosteal dental implants are great for patients that have suffered from major bone loss or are unable to wear dentures.

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The dental implant placement process

The dental implant placement process is complex and involves multiple steps to complete. First, your dentist will look at the area and consult you on the best replacement options available. From there, they will explain more about the implant process and where the implant will be placed. Each treatment plan is unique to the patient, but there are some common steps for the procedure that go as follows:

The implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone of the patient.

2. Osseointegration begins. This is a healing process in which the dental implant fuses with the jawbone. The bone grows around the implant to better hold it in place. This adds to the stability and durability of the dental implant. During this process, soft foods and soups will likely be recommended. The bone-implant integration process takes time and requires patience on the part of the patient. Occasionally, replacement teeth and implants are placed during the same visit.

3. Finally, the false teeth are placed in the mouth of the patient. For only one tooth, there will be a dental crown. If multiple teeth need to be replaced, a patient may receive multiple crowns or a dental bridge. The patient will receive a custom crown meant to fit with the surrounding teeth. The crown can also share the appearance of the surrounding teeth, depending on the materials used. The dental crown or bridge will need to be prepared in a lab, so this takes some time. During the preparation process, the dentist will likely install a temporary bridge or crown.

A dentist may ask that their patient gets a formal medical evaluation from a physician before the procedure is scheduled.

dental implant parts

Dental implants are made up of three parts: the implant, the dental crown, and the abutment.

The dental implant is a metal rod installed in the jaw to create an artificial root. It is here that the dental crown is placed.

The abutment connects the dental crown to the dental implant. It can be easily removed by a patient’s dentist.

The dental crown is the prosthetic tooth. It can be made with different materials, and with certain materials, it can be made to closely resemble the tooth of the patient.

If you have a missing tooth or teeth, reach out to our office to discuss dental implants. We will discuss the options that may be available and set up an appointment for a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants Indianapolis, Indiana [IN] (Special Offers)

Is there a limit to the number of dental implants I can have?

Dental implants are able to replace one tooth or multiple teeth. Not only are dental bridges available to replace rows of teeth, but individual implants may be used to replace multiple teeth. There isn’t really a limit to the number of implants a patient can have placed.

Are implants beneficial?

Dental implants are an excellent choice for patients looking to replace one or more teeth. They are extremely beneficial! Because dental implants are fused to the jawbone of the patient, they are very strong and durable. They provide excellent support and make it easy to bite, eat, and chew. Unlike with removable dentures, dental implants don’t slip or move around. They also don’t need to be repaired very often.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Patients that have a jawbone that can support dental implants, are in good health, and have healthy gum tissue are often candidates for implants. It’s important for the patient to have enough bone present in the jaw to install the implants, so those with periodontal disease generally aren’t good candidates.

For those suffering from illnesses like leukemia or diabetes, implants may not be a good choice. Chronic illnesses can interfere with the dental implant healing process.

Tobacco use also is not advised, as it slows down osseointegration.

What happens after the implant procedure?

Once dental implants have been placed, it’s important to take good care of them. This means continuing to brush, floss, and rinse around the implants every day, twice a day. You don’t want any plaque around the implant on the surrounding teeth.

Immediately after the implant has healed, the dentist will want to see you for a follow-up appointment. Here they will take a look at your teeth and gums to make sure everything looks good.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants varies, but in general, they can be pretty expensive. Oftentimes, a single implant may cost around $1,500-$2,000, while a bridge may be around $3,000-$4,800. This will depend on the individual dentist, location, severity of the procedure, and more. With that said, the cost of dental implants is much lower than the cost of repairs for damage that can occur if dental implants aren’t placed.

Contact our office for a more specific quote for your dental implant procedure.