For many patients insurance coverage is available depending on your plan’s specifics regarding oral care benefits as well as its deductible amount(s). It is best to check directly with your insurer first before any procedures are scheduled so you know what costs will fall upon yourself vs your insurer beforehand if there is any coverage provided at all.
With proper care this type of restoration can last many years—upwards of 10-15 years on average—and even longer in some cases depending upon how well they were installed by your dentist and how thoroughly they were cared for afterwards by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste along with flossing once per day. To ensure maximum longevity regular checkups should also be scheduled every 6 months so that any signs of wear can be caught early on.
The greatest benefits associated with getting a dental implant include improved aesthetics, better chewing ability, enhanced oral health due to fewer cavities and gum disease risk factors, improved speech patterns due to better alignment of teeth, greater convenience since they don’t need special cleaning solutions like dentures do; and increased self-confidence from having beautiful new teeth that look natural! On the other hand, some downsides include higher cost than most other dental restorations (though many insurance companies provide coverage), longer healing time compared to other restorations; potential complications such as infection or nerve damage; additional treatments such as bone grafts or sinus lifts might be needed; and individuals with certain medical conditions may not make good candidates for dental implants.
The duration of the implant process depends on a variety of factors such as the patient's individual condition and how complex the case may be. On average, it takes between three to six months from start to finish before you have your complete set of teeth in place. The procedure itself typically takes two procedures -- one to place the implant post and one to attach the prosthetic tooth or bridge -- each taking roughly two hours.
Dental implants are typically constructed from titanium, a biocompatible material that is adept at fusing directly with bone tissue in your jaw. This makes them incredibly strong and durable for years of use. In some cases, ceramic materials may also be used for their aesthetic qualities and for patients with metal allergies.
Generally speaking, dental implants are very comfortable. During the implant procedure, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the treatment area and you will receive sedation that you won't experience any pain. After the procedure, there may be some minor discomfort which can usually be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Most people report feeling only minor discomfort after having an implant placed, and it generally fades within a few days.