Dental implants are the only permanent, natural-looking replacement for missing teeth. These titanium fixtures are integrated directly into your jawbone, restoring missing teeth from root to crown for unmatched strength and stability. Best of all, dental implants can last up to a lifetime if you maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Explore our guide to learn more about dental implants so you can decide if they’re the right tooth replacement for you.
Dental implants provide several unique benefits that other restorative treatments can’t match, including:
Restoring your smile with dental implants is a three-step process that’s typically completed over the course of several months. Our treatment process consists of:
Because we use these restorations in several different treatments, the dental crown installation process can vary. However, if we’re repairing your tooth with a dental crown, we can generally complete the process in just two easy appointments:
Your journey to a bright, repaired smile begins with a consultation with Dr. Bingham at Premier Dental Care. There, we’ll clean and examine your teeth, treating any underlying oral health issues along the way.
We’ll take a detailed impression of your teeth to guide the future shape and size of your custom restoration. If necessary, we’ll also fit you with a temporary replacement crown in the meantime.
After we’ve received your custom crowns from our dental prostheses specialist, we’ll schedule your restoration appointment. We’ll do another cleaning at this appointment and smooth the surface of your tooth, so it’ll fit perfectly with the edge of your crown.
We’ll then place your crown atop your newly shaped tooth using a dental-grade adhesive. After a short period to allow it to harden, you’ll leave our office showing off your fully functional, restored smile to your family and friends.
If you want a restoration that allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, dental implants could be right for you. Unlike other tooth replacements such as dentures, implants are fixed in place and won’t fall out or slide around. They can be cared for just like natural teeth with daily brushing and flossing, and they stimulate jawbone growth to maintain a youthful appearance.
An ideal candidate for dental implants will have a strong jawbone and healthy gums. But if you lack either of these things, don’t worry — Dr. Bingham can help you become a candidate with a supplemental procedure. If any supplemental treatments are deemed necessary, Dr. Bingham will factor them into your treatment plan and discuss them with you ahead of time.
In most cases, dental implants will last for at least 25 years before they need to be replaced. If you practice excellent oral hygiene and visit your dentist for regular checkups, your implants may never need to be replaced.
During the first week after surgery, it’s crucial to follow Dr. Bingham’s post-op instructions. These will include limiting your diet to soft foods, avoiding drinking alcohol or smoking, and rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after meals.
Once your implant has healed, you can care for it just like a natural tooth with daily brushing and flossing. Dr. Bingham recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and nylon floss, while also avoiding brands of toothpaste that contain abrasive ingredients.
Dental implants have an overall success rate of 98%. As long as your surgery is performed by an experienced and qualified dentist like Dr. Bingham, there’s no reason to worry. In fact, implants are the only tooth replacement that prevents your jawbone from shrinking, making them the safest option long-term.
Most insurance providers designate dental implants as a cosmetic treatment and don’t cover them as a result. However, your insurance may pay for a portion of your total treatment cost, depending on the terms set by your provider. If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, we’ll be happy to help you maximize your benefits.
If you want a tooth replacement that allows you to live without restrictions, look no further than dental implants. These natural-looking restorations can transform your smile while also protecting your long-term oral health.
Call our Nampa, ID dental practice at 208-466-6161 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bingham. It’s the first step on your journey to a new smile!