At Dechter and Moy, patient education is very important to us. We believe that when you understand your dental care, you feel more confident and comfortable during treatment. That’s why our dentists take the time to explain every step of your dental implant treatment. We want you to know how dental implants can help improve your smile, make it easier to eat and speak, and protect your oral health.
Our goal is to answer all your questions and help you feel prepared before, during, and after your implant treatment. To help you get started, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions we hear about dental implants in our Silver Spring, MD, dental office. We encourage you to keep reading and learn more about how dental implants can benefit you.
Dental Implant Q&A
Do you have questions about dental implants? We’re here to demystify implant treatment. Read answers to dental implant FAQs in our Silver Spring, MD, dental office.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants consist of three different parts. The first part is a titanium implant post that our dentist will place into the jawbone. This piece will integrate with the jaw bone to become a new artificial tooth root.
The next piece is the abutment, which our dentist will attach to the top of the post. This connects the post to the final restoration. The final restoration is usually a dental crown for a single dental implant. We’ll use a fixed bridge or denture for multiple missing teeth.
How long does the implant process take?
It can take months to receive your new implant restoration. However, the time it takes to get implants will depend on your dental health and how long it takes you to heal. If you need to treat problems like gum disease, cavities, or jawbone loss, you’ll need more time for pre-treatments. It can take weeks or months to heal if you need treatment before you get implants.
Then we’ll use dental technology to map out your implant plan. Our digital imaging technology analyzes the best precise location to place the implants to ensure success. Once our dentist places the implant posts, you need around 3 to 6 months for the implants to heal and fuse with the jawbone. Then you need more time for your gums to heal after we place the abutments.
Every patient is different, and we can give you an estimate of how long implant treamtent will take based on your health. While it can take some time to get implants, patients find the results worth it.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
We recommend dental implant treatment for patients with healthy gums, sufficient jaw bone, and missing teeth. To get dental implants, you need to have enough healthy jawbone. This is important because the implant post is placed in your jawbone and joins with it. This connection is what makes the implant strong and stable. The post holds the new tooth in place.
Some health problems can make it harder to get implants. For example, if you have gum disease or tooth decay, you may need treatment first. We’ll check your mouth and health to make sure dental implants are the right choice for you.
Does my insurance cover dental implants?
Everyone’s dental insurance is different. But most insurance plans don’t cover dental implants. They may cover some aspects of the treatment plan, though, like the fabrication of your dental crown or denture. We’ll work with you and your insurance to determine what your dental insurance covers and to give you the final price. We offer financing through CareCredit if you need assistance paying for your procedure.
Do dental implants require any special care?
One of the best things about dental implants is that you care for them just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss at least twice a day, and schedule a visit to our dentist for a checkup and cleaning at least twice a year. If you take good care of your mouth, your dental implants can last for many years.
Can I eat normally with dental implants?
Yes! Once your implants heal and we place your restoration, you can eat all your favorite foods again. Dental implants are strong and stable, so you can chew comfortably without worrying about your teeth slipping. Right after surgery, you may need to eat softer foods while your mouth heals. You can enjoy a full diet once you’re used to your new teeth. One of the benefits of dental implants is that they can improve your nutrition because you can eat a wider variety of foods.
Will people tell that I have a dental implant?
Most people will not be able to tell that you have a dental implant. Dr. Alan Dechter and Dr. Matthew Moy use the latest dental technology so your dental implant looks and feels just like your natural teeth. We work with a local dental lab, so the crown, bridge, or denture that goes on top of the implant is carefully designed to match your other teeth.
We’ll color-match your new tooth so it blends in with the rest of your smile. You can also choose a whiter shade if you want a brighter smile. We make sure the size, shape, and fit of your new tooth look completely natural.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are made to be a long-term, permanent solution for missing teeth. The implant posts are made from strong titanium, a metal that doesn’t break down or decay over time. This means the posts can stay in your jawbone for many years, even for the rest of your life. If you brush and floss every day and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups, your dental implants should last for decades.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Do you think that dental implants can be the solution for your missing teeth? Call us today for a consultation at (301) 508-9755. You may also schedule an appointment at Dechter and Moy online. Let us know if you have more questions for us and we’ll be here to help you.