Dental Implants at Steinway Family Dental Center
What is this single tooth replacement implant and how is it different from other types of replacements for the teeth?
When you need to replace a tooth, you're not touching any adjacent teeth; you're just replacing what's missing. If there is a tooth missing between two good teeth, you replace the root of the tooth with an implant and then put a crown on top. There's a third part that connects the implant to the crown, and all of this is done without affecting the other teeth.
The other option might involve getting a removable piece that replaces one tooth. It also hugs the teeth next to it to hold it up, which puts abnormal pressure on them, as you're trying to pull them out of their socket. It's also uncomfortable to have a denture because you have to remove it and keep it in water. An implant is much more comfortable because it feels like your own tooth, and all you have to do is brush it, floss around it, and see a hygienist as you would with your own teeth.
Can you explain the full process of getting dental implants?
The first visit involves determining that there's a missing tooth and you have enough bone to support an implant. An implant is essentially a screw, and you cannot place a screw in the air, so the width and height of the bone should be enough to support it.
Let's assume you already have enough bone and don't need additional procedures like grafting. The implant can be placed right away. On the same day, the tissue can be punctured, and the implant placed inside. A special part is then placed to make the gum close like a seal around it, similar to how it grows around a tooth.
It takes between three to six months for the bone to fuse with the implant completely so it can bear weight. That's when the crown can be placed. Before the crown is placed, it connects to the implant with a special part, essentially a screw that holds the crown on top. It could be a screw-retained crown that comes in one piece, or it could come in two separate parts, where the second part goes in first and the third part is cemented on top. That is the whole process.
How long does the dental implant procedure take?
If it's a single implant, it would probably take less than half an hour. The procedure itself doesn't take long, but you'll receive an injection and wait for the anesthetic to set before starting. The placement itself takes 3 to 5 minutes, sometimes less, sometimes a little longer, but for the most part, it's an easy procedure. Most of the time, it's painless as you receive local anesthetic. Post-operatively, there's almost no pain whatsoever.
What is a bone graft and why would I need one for dental implants?
Let's assume we don't have enough bone. For example, if we have a box of bone and we're placing an implant in the center, with sufficient bone on both sides, we don't need bone grafting. But if one side is missing a little bone, we need a bone graft.
It can be done before or at the same time as the implant placement, depending on the severity of the bone needed. If a lot is missing, it may need to be done ahead of time. If it's a small amount, it could be done on the same day. Bone grafting is a simple procedure where more bone is added, and then the implant is placed.
What should a patient expect in terms of healing after the placement of an implant?
From personal experience, it feels like the itch you get in your gum when your baby tooth starts shaking. It's not really painful. Most of the time, it's a painless process. For example, when I had mine, I didn't need to take any medication. It's completely painless.
How can a patient find a qualified dentist to do implant placements?
It's advisable to look online at reviews or call your dentist to see if they perform the procedure. Often, they don't advertise that it's available. If you can't find anyone, you can call us! We place implants. Someone will contact you, and we can discuss your case in person, ensuring all your questions are answered by a professional, understanding what's possible, and how much it will cost.
If you’re searching for quality dental care, we’re here to help. Call (718) 728-3314 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is committed to keeping your smile healthy.