Seven Questions To Ask Your Dentist Before Getting Dental Implants
Anytime you are considering a dental procedure, such as dental implants, to restore your teeth, it’s important to understand everything you can before deciding if it’s right for your oral health. During a consultation at Bay City Dental Center with Dr. Matthew Ward in Bay City, MI, you can ask any questions you have about how dental implants work. You should always feel comfortable with your Bay City Michigan dentist, and asking them these questions helps you feel more confident in their ability to restore your smile.
Dental implants are great for patients looking to rejuvenate their smiles and to improve their oral health. Dr. Ward will examine your teeth and gums thoroughly to decide if you’re a candidate for dental implants. Here we will address seven of the most commonly-asked questions about dental implants in Bay City, MI.
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What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots. The implant is a screw-like post that is inserted into the jawbone, which makes dental implants a long-term restoration. They are natural-looking, which allows you to enjoy restored oral health almost immediately after placement. After they’re placed, osseointegration, a healing process, must occur where the bone will grow around the implants to bond effectively.
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Can I get implants with gum disease?
To be a candidate for dental implants, you must have:
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One or more missing teeth
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A strong enough jawbone to withstand the healing process
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A speech problem that can be repaired with implants
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Will dental insurance cover dental implants?
The best way to determine if your dental insurance covers dental implants is to call and speak with one of our knowledgeable office staff.
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Are dental implants safe?
Dr. Ward uses dental implants as a reliable procedure to replace missing teeth. This allows his patients to return to eating and speaking comfortably.
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Do dental implants last forever?
How long your dental implants last depends on how you care for them. Proper oral hygiene is important, so regular brushing and flossing, and dental exams and dental cleanings helps keep them healthy. Also, the location of the implant determines how long they last since implants in the back receive more pressure overall. Poor hygiene can lead to implant failure and the need for them to be removed in Bay City, MI.
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Can dental implants be removed?
Dental implants may be removed to change their position or if they fail. An early implant failure can be caused by too much movement during healing or failure to care for the implant properly. Late implant failures occur most often because the implant becomes loose or peri-implantitis, and infection occurs. This makes it important for Dr. Ward to evaluate your jawbone quality closely before deciding if you are a candidate for dental implants in Michigan.
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How long does it take to heal from dental implants?
The average healing time for dental implants is from two to six months. Once osseointegration occurs, the dental implant process is completed with the attachment of the crown.
Learn how dental implants restore smiles and oral health
When you’re considering ways to replace missing teeth and improve your oral health, dental implants are a great procedure to consider. At Bay City Dental Center, Dr. Matthew Ward offers consultations to patients interested in learning more about dental implants in Bay City, MI. To schedule this consultation, call our dental office today. We serve the areas of Bay City, Saginaw, and Midland, MI.