Dental Implants
Dental implants are a very reliable source for effective tooth replacement. Whether you have lost one tooth or many, implants can provide a permanent solution that looks and functions normally.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants provide a long-term solution for missing teeth. A dental implant is a small, robust post made of titanium that replaces the root of a missing tooth. The post is implanted in the jawbone and then covered with a natural-looking crown. At Maynard Family Dentists, we specialize in the dental implant procedure, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free process from beginning to end.
The Dental Implant Procedure at Maynard Family Dentists
Dental implants are a customized process that involves several steps to address each patient’s specific oral health needs. The procedure may vary depending on the additional procedures required, such as tooth extractions or bone grafting.
Here are the steps involved in the dental implant process:
1. Consultation and Initial Exam:
We start with a comprehensive examination, which includes x-rays to evaluate your bone health. This helps us determine if dental implants are suitable for you and discuss your treatment options.
2. Tooth Extraction (if necessary):
If the tooth or teeth being replaced need removal, we perform extractions carefully. If the extraction site shows signs of bone loss, a bone graft may be necessary to provide a solid base for the implant.
3. Dental Bone Graft (if required):
If your jawbone lacks sufficient mass to support an implant, we may need to perform a bone graft or a sinus lift. This procedure involves adding bone material to your jaw or between your sinuses and jaw, which will need time to heal and integrate with your jawbone before moving forward with the implant.
4. Implant Placement:
The titanium dental implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone. A healing cap is then placed over the implant to protect it while the healing phase begins. If there is a cosmetic concern, we can install a temporary tooth during this phase.
5. Implant Healing:
This phase, known as osseointegration, involves your jawbone healing around the implant, securing it firmly by fusing with the titanium post. This critical process can take several months but is essential for a stable foundation.
6. Abutment and Crown Placement:
Once healing is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant. This piece serves as the base for your new crown (artificial tooth), which will be placed on the abutment to complete the restoration.
If you are interested in getting a dental implant, please schedule an appointment using our online scheduling tool or contact Maynard Family Dentists today to explore if you are a candidate for the dental implant procedure and to understand the related costs and specifics. You can restore your smile and confidence with our expert tooth replacement services.
Dental Implant Cost
At Maynard Family Dentists, we strive to offer affordable dental implants for our patients in Maynard, MA. Each part of the procedure has an individual charge, listed below, but please note that the prices can slightly vary, depending on the needs of each patient as every case is different.
Dental Implant: $1,106 – $2,450
- Custom Abutment: $1,106
- Implant Crown: $1,896
- Dental Implant: $2,450
Estimated total cost per implant is $4,508. Out of pocket cost for any procedure depends on your insurance coverage at the time of the procedure.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
During the procedure, pain is very minimal as local anesthesia is used. Local anesthesia will numb the nerves surrounding the implant area so you won’t experience any pain. You may feel some pressure but it should not be painful.
Once the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some discomfort for a couple of days. Follow the below aftercare recommendations for a speedy recovery.
Dental Implant Aftercare
Following the procedure, you may experience some of the typical discomforts associated with any oral surgery, such as: swelling of the gums and face, pain near the implant site, and minor bleeding.
- Pain management. We recommend our patients take Motrin for 24-48 hours after their procedure. You should not need to take any time off from work.
- Minor bleeding. It’s common to have a small of blood in your saliva for a day or two after your procedure. If you are experiencing bleeding, bite on a gauze pad for 30 minutes. If the bleeding persists for more than a couple of days, contact our office.
- Swelling. To minimize swelling, place an ice pack on the cheek near the surgical area for 10 minutes, then remove the ice pack for 20 minutes and repeat.
- Oral Hygiene. Properly caring for your implants will help them last a lifetime. Dental implants are used to mimic natural teeth and should be treated as such. In order to keep them healthy, make sure to brush and floss, twice a day, as you do with the rest of your teeth.
Meet Your Dental Implant Expert
Dr. Colin Pedersen
Dr. Pedersen graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and went on to complete a residency in Advanced General Dentistry at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, focusing on complex surgical and restorative care.
Ready to Replace Your Missing Tooth?
If you’re considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option, contact Maynard Family Dentists today. We are here to help you restore your smile and confidence with high-quality dental implants.
