Dental Implants FAQs
We’re here to support you along your journey to a happy and healthy smile! It’s important to us that you not only love your results – but enjoy the process along the way.
Get answers to frequently asked questions here, and if you still have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Both dentures and dental implants are high-quality prosthetic solutions that replace missing teeth. They’re made to last for decades with proper care!
However, dentures are removable, while dental implants are permanent and surgically implanted into the jaw bone. Because of this implantation, dental implants are more stable and secure than dentures. Dental implants are the closest things to natural teeth!
The choice between dentures and dental implants depends on your individual preferences, your budget, and treatment goals. Dentures are more affordable but are not permanent, while dental implants come at a higher cost and are permanent.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium. They’re surgically placed within the jawbone to serve as a stable foundation that supports new prosthetic teeth. Once the dental implant is inserted, your natural bone fuses with the implant through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong and long-lasting support structure for the prosthetic teeth attached to the implant.
If you’re in good health with adequate jawbone density and you’re looking to replace missing teeth, you’re likely a candidate for either treatment! At your free initial consultation, Dr. Montoya will perform a thorough exam to help you choose the right solution for your unique needs.
The dental implant procedure will be performed under local anesthesia to numb the area before implantation. We also offer a number of sedation options, including nitrous oxide inhalation (laughing gas), IV conscious sedation and oral conscious sedation, to ease anxiety and reduce discomfort. We’ll help you decide which sedation option will be best for you.
Most patients report only mild discomfort or soreness afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers!
Your treatment plan will be 100% personalized to you and your needs, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach throughout the dental implant process.
The timeline varies depending on your case and the number of dental implants needed. After implant placement, there is a healing period of several months to allow for osseointegration (the body’s natural process of the jawbone fusing with the implant.) The entire process, including the restoration phase, can take several months to a year or more.
Dental implant coverage varies by insurance plans. While some insurance policies provide partial coverage for implant procedures, many consider them elective and may not cover the full cost.
We accept all PPO insurance plans but are considered out-of-network with all providers except United Healthcare. If you have dental insurance, our team will submit your insurance claims for you, so you can receive the maximum benefit.
Dental implants require regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups – just like natural teeth! Proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the success and longevity of your dental implants.
While dental implants have a very high success rate of 95%, they can fail in some cases, due to factors like infection, poor hygiene, inadequate osseointegration, or excessive forces on the implants. Following post-surgery instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene will reduce the risk of failure.
