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Dental Implants FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
If you’re considering dental implants, you likely have questions about the procedure, costs, and what to expect. At Dental Implant Aesthetic Center in Memphis, our team has placed thousands of implants over 40 years of combined practice. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions our patients ask, drawing from our clinical experience to help you make an informed decision about restoring your smile.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. This post fuses with your bone through osseointegration, a process where bone cells grow directly onto the implant surface. This biological integration creates a stable foundation for a custom crown, bridge, or denture. Unlike traditional tooth replacement options, dental implants preserve your jawbone and prevent the progressive bone loss that occurs after tooth loss.
How Dental Implants Support A Natural Look
Each tooth implant replicates both the function and appearance of your natural teeth. The titanium post acts as an artificial root, while the custom-made crown is fabricated in our in-house lab to match the exact color, translucency, and contours of your surrounding teeth. Our prosthodontists work closely with our surgical team throughout the process, allowing us to achieve results that integrate seamlessly with your smile.
Why Advanced Technology Matters
Our in-house dental lab and cone beam CT imaging allow us to plan your implant placement with submillimeter precision. We can evaluate bone density, identify anatomical structures like nerve pathways, and determine the optimal implant position before surgery begins. This level of planning reduces surgical time and improves both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Learn more about our dental implant technology and how it benefits your treatment.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?
Most adults in good general health with one or more missing teeth can receive dental implants. The primary requirements include adequate jawbone density (typically at least 1mm of bone surrounding the implant site) and healthy gums free from active periodontal disease. Your overall health, lifestyle habits, and commitment to oral hygiene also influence long-term success rates.
Bone Health And Gum Condition
Sufficient jawbone density is necessary for implant stability. In our practice, we see many patients who have experienced bone loss from wearing dentures for years or from long-term tooth absence. We may recommend bone grafting before implant placement to rebuild the foundation. Healthy gums provide the biological seal around the implant that protects against infection and supports long-term stability.
General Health Factors
Certain conditions require careful consideration. Uncontrolled diabetes can impair healing and osseointegration, though well-managed diabetes typically doesn’t preclude treatment. Smoking significantly increases failure rates and complications, which is why we discuss cessation strategies with patients. During your consultation, we’ll review your medications and medical history to identify any factors that might affect healing or require protocol modifications.
Comparing Implants To Bridges And Dentures
When weighing your tooth replacement options, understanding the clinical differences between implants, bridges, and dentures helps clarify which solution best addresses your specific needs.
Long-Term Investment Vs. Replacements
Dental implants can function for decades with proper care. In our patient population, we’ve seen implants remain stable and healthy for 20-30 years. Bridges typically need replacement every 10-15 years, and dentures require refitting or replacement every 5-10 years as bone resorption changes your jaw shape. While the initial investment in implants is higher, the longevity often makes them more cost-effective over time.
Stability And Comfort
Unlike removable dentures that can shift during eating or speaking, dental implants remain fixed in your jaw. This stability allows normal chewing forces and eliminates concerns about appliances moving at inconvenient moments. Implants also preserve adjacent teeth since they don’t require reducing healthy tooth structure, as bridges do.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
Yes, most insurance plans provide some coverage for this type of treatment. Coverage for implants can vary by carrier and plan type. Our team can review your insurance coverage prior to your initial consultation to confirm your benefits, and we can work on structuring a treatment plan that maximizes the use of these benefits.
Financing Options
At Dental Implant Aesthetic Center, we offer flexible financing options and payment plans. We offer 0% financing options to help our patients access the care they need while structuring a financial solution that fits their budget. Contact our office and our team can review some of the different financing options we offer and if desired, see what financing you might qualify for.
What Is The Dental Implant Procedure Like?
The dental implant process typically occurs in stages over several months, allowing adequate time for bone healing and integration.
1. Planning And Extraction
Treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation, including cone beam CT scanning to assess your bone structure and plan precise implant positioning. If you need a tooth extracted, we typically perform this 8-12 weeks before implant placement to allow the extraction site to heal.
2. Implant Placement
During implant surgery, we use local anesthesia or IV sedation based on your preference and the complexity of your case. Single implant placement typically takes 45-90 minutes. We create an opening in your gum, prepare the bone with specialized drills, place the titanium implant, and close the site with sutures that dissolve on their own.
3. Healing And Restoration
Osseointegration takes 3-6 months, depending on bone quality and implant location. We often provide a temporary restoration during this healing period. Once integration is confirmed, we attach an abutment and place your custom crown, completing your restoration.
Ready To Reclaim Your Smile With Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, combining function with natural aesthetics. Our team brings over 40 years of combined experience in implant surgery and prosthodontics. Request a consultation today to discuss how dental implants can restore your smile and confidence.
Testimonials
Your first choice for u0022All on Fouru0022 full arch implant restorations for 40 years
Chris M.
Chris M.
When I lost my tooth, I didn’t want to show my smile. Dr. Felton explained the implant process in a way that I could really understand and I was confident that I had come to the right place. She placed my implant and my new tooth gave me back the confidence to smile again.
Dodie C
Dodie C
I am so pleased to be in the hands of the doctors at the Dental Implant Aesthetic Center, I have total confidence in them. The office staff is so welcoming and made me feel comfortable and I am convinced I will be take care of.
Leslie M
Leslie M
We’ve been going to Dr. Schulter for at least 40 years. I’ve had a broad range of services completed at the Dental Implant Aesthetic Center, from cleanings, to crowns, and dental implants. In 2012, I fell and damaged several of my front teeth. I was able to get on the schedule for an emergency visit…
