Enjoy a Natural-Looking Smile
Missing teeth can have a significant impact on our appearance. The gaps left by missing teeth can cause the surrounding teeth to shift, leading to misalignment, jaw deterioration, an uneven smile or even facial collapse.
At Big Bay Point Dentistry, we offer Nobel Biocare™ dental implants to help restore the oral health of patients with missing teeth and prevent the ongoing deterioration of the jawline and facial structure.
Dental implants are tiny titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone where they gradually bond with the bone and gums. Once healed, a dental implant forms a stable base upon which to secure one or more artificial teeth such as a crown, bridge, or denture.
A great smile can change our lives, and Big Bay Point Dentistry can help! Schedule an appointment with our dentist to find out if Nobel Biocare dental implants could be a suitable tooth replacement option for you.
Making Your Dental Implant Procedure More Comfortable
If you're nervous about your upcoming dental implant procedure, we can help ease your anxiety. At Big Bay Point Dentistry, our dentist offers nitrous oxide for patients undergoing long or uncomfortable procedures. This can help reduce discomfort and make time feel like it's passing quicker.
Learn MoreThe Dental Implant Process
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically placed in the jawbone. The implant can be topped with a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture depending on your needs. The full process is typically performed in three steps:
- A thorough assessment of your oral health will be completed by your dentist to determine whether you are a good candidate for implants. If dental implants are right for you, an appointment will be scheduled so that your implants can be placed.
- During your implant surgery appointment, the implant will be secured into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, your implant will gradually bond with the surrounding bone and attach to the gums.
- You will return to our office once the healing process is complete, approximately three to six months after surgery. At this time, your dentist will attach a tooth replacement to the implant. Depending on your needs, and how many implants have been placed, your tooth replacement could be a dental crown, bridge, or denture.
Dental Implant FAQs
Are considering dental implants to replace your missing teeth? Please read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Big Bay Point Dentistry to learn more.
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How long does a dental implant last?
When cared for properly, dental implants can last a lifetime. Proper brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office will help to ensure the longevity of your dental implants.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors, including nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants requires a thorough daily oral hygiene routine at home and regular trips to the dentist—exactly like caring for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia. This will help to ensure that you are comfortable and don't feel pain during the procedure.
Once the procedure is complete, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
How long your dental implant process takes is determined by a number of factors including whether you require bone grafting and how quickly your mouth heals between each step. On average, the entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance coverage varies greatly and while some insurance companies cover the full cost of dental implants, others cover only a portion of the cost or none at all.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.