What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed in your jawbone. Acting as a substitute for tooth roots, implants permanently anchor a dental appliance in your mouth. With dental implants, you can talk, eat, and laugh as you did with your natural teeth. More importantly, the implants can last a lifetime if you schedule regular check-ups and maintain good dental hygiene.
Dr. Ruff is extensively skilled and knowledgeable about dental implants. She is a graduate of the Maxicourse in Oral Implantology and completed over 300 hours of advanced educational training in dental implants.
It is possible to replace missing teeth with dental implants. Once they are placed in your jaw, the crowns are cemented permanently to the implants. One advantage of implant supported crowns versus bridges is that prepping of adjacent natural teeth is not necessary. Dental implants are the most technologically advanced method of restoring your original smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
When you compare all your options for replacing missing teeth, dental implants basically always come out on top because they offer benefits that traditional bridges and dentures simply can’t. From having greater aesthetics to a high success rate, implants are the most recommended tooth replacement for a reason! The structure of an implant imitates natural teeth and replaces the entire lost tooth from root to crown, giving the implant several advantages over other options.
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Day-to-Day Benefits
Although bridges and dentures are fabricated to look realistic, only implants truly replicate a tooth’s natural structure. In other words, the replacement tooth genuinely looks and feels just like the real thing. As a result, you don’t have to worry about slippage when you eat or talk, which can give you confidence in social or professional situations. Implants are also easy to take care of; you simply keep up good oral hygiene and visit our office at least twice every year for checkups and cleanings.
Health Benefits
Dental implants are the only replacement to keep the jawbone strong and healthy. Why is this important? When a tooth is lost, the body resorbs the jawbone, weakening your biting power. By keeping the jawbone stimulated, implants enable you to continue eating nutritious foods like broccoli, carrots, apples, leafy greens, and much more. With a healthier diet, you’re more likely to maintain a higher quality of life. And with a stronger jawbone, your remaining teeth can stay supported and are less likely to succumb to tooth loss later on.
Long-Term Benefits
If you’ve ever worn a denture or had a bridge, you know that these restorations don’t last forever. In fact, they need to be replaced every ten years at the longest, adding up to some serious costs over time. Dental implants, on the other hand, can go for 30 or more years without needing replacement. As a result, many implant wearers find that they actually save money in the long term by choosing this option over the others. Years from now, you’ll be glad you chose to work with our implants dentist in Fayetteville.
Who Dental Implants Can Help
There’s no limit to the number of teeth that can be replaced with dental implants. No matter how extensive your tooth loss is, your entire smile can be restored with well-placed implant post and a custom restoration. Dr. Ruff will spend part of your initial consultation determining whether or not you’re a good candidate for dental implants. A treatment plan that includes an appropriate number of preparatory procedures will be developed based on your individual needs.
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Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Generally speaking, the most basic requirement for getting dental implants is to be a healthy adult who needs at least one tooth replaced. Implant placement is a surgery, so any medical conditions that could interfere with your ability to recover from such a procedure will have to be addressed. Also, gum disease and cavities must be treated first; otherwise they could cause the implants to fail. Finally, we’ll have to confirm that your jaw is strong enough to support the implants; if it isn’t, bone grafting is usually an option.
Missing 1 Tooth
If you’ve only lost one tooth, then a single dental implant will be sufficient for restoring your smile. The post will be topped with a dental crown made out of tooth-colored ceramic materials; you’ll usually have to wait around 3 to 6 months for the implant to fuse with the jaw before the crown can be placed. The restoration will be designed to match the size, shape, and shade of the other teeth so that it’s virtually indistinguishable from the rest of the smile. Thanks to the support that the dental implant provides, your new crown will be much sturdier and will last longer than a traditional dental bridge.
Missing Multiple Teeth
To replace multiple teeth in a row, you can get an implant bridge. Instead of a separate implant post for each tooth, you’ll only need two posts to support the crowns at either end of the restoration. This is usually recommended if three or more consecutive teeth have been lost. Compared to traditional bridges, implant bridges are the better option for long term oral health because they don’t require any permanent alterations to the teeth. They will also actively help prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of place.
Missing All Teeth
Implant dentures can be used when an entire arch of teeth has been lost or removed. The number of implants required to support a denture can vary, but it’s usually in the range of 4 to 6, and we’ll always opt for the smallest number possible. Unlike traditional dentures, implant dentures stay permanently anchored in place, and they allow you to eat all of your favorite foods without difficulty. Also, you’ll be able to brush and floss your dentures the same way you would clean your natural teeth; you won’t have to worry about using the specialized cleaning products that are typically required for traditional dentures.
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Implant-Supported Dentures/Partials
Denture-wearers know that even the best fitting dentures can slip. With implant supported dentures, your denture feels secure and is held firmly in place, enabling you to eat comfortably and laugh and talk with confidence.
When permanent teeth are lost, regardless of the reason or number of teeth, dental implants can offer a “new lease on life.” They are superior to other choices because they are solid, secure, and esthetic. After nearly 35 years of use, they have a 90-95% proven success rate in appropriately chosen cases.
An implant is a special surgical grade titanium post that’s been manufactured to highly precise specifications under strict sterile conditions; it’s inserted surgically into the jawbone below the gum surface. As the bone bonds to the post, it forms a secure foundation onto which your new teeth are then attached and shaped to match your mouth. The number of teeth being replaced will determine the best kind of restoration for you. Implants can help replace a single tooth or a full set of teeth. If you have been suffering with partial or full dentures, are missing teeth, or feel you need teeth extracted, do not hesitate to call to be evaluated for implants.
If you think dental implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ruff.
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Implants - Permanent, Secure Tooth Replacements
When people lose permanent teeth due to accident, injury, disease or extraction, dental implants can be a secure, functional replacement option.
Mini Implant Dentures: No Small Wonder!
Imagine visiting your dentist in the morning, having the “mini-implant system” placed in under two hours, and then enjoying lunch with a friend at your favorite restaurant! Plus, during your relaxing lunch, you can eat comfortably, laugh, and talk with confidence, all with your new denture securely and firmly held in place.
The IMTEC MDI System are “mini implants” that are about half the diameter of conventional implants. The system was developed to provide denture stability for patients who are not candidates for conventional implant surgery. The miniature titanium implants provide secure anchorage of your denture. The denture rests on the gum tissue and the implant fixtures allow for tiny movements while still withstanding chewing forces. Placement of the MDI System is relatively fast, straight forward and performed at your dentist’s office; it is a one-step procedure that involves minimally invasive surgery with no sutures. Healing time is shorter than conventional implants surgery as well.
Understanding the Cost of Dental Implants
No two patients are alike, which means every case is different. As a result, the cost of dental implants in Fayetteville cannot be determined until you schedule a consultation with our team and allow for a complete oral examination. It is during this visit we will determine if you are eligible to receive dental implants and if so, how much you can expect to pay for your new smile. Various factors must be taken into consideration to provide you with a clear and appropriate estimate for your implant procedure. At Ascot Aesthetic Implants & Dentistry, our team will go the extra mile to help you achieve the smile you deserve at a price you can afford.
When formulating your estimate, some of the following factors will be considered:
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Preliminary Treatments & Dental Implant Surgery
Although not all patients require preliminary treatments, many do, but it isn’t until we examine your smile that we can determine if you need bone grafting, periodontal therapy, tooth extraction, or another similar procedure. While it is true these additional treatments add to the overall cost of your care, they are necessary to ensure your oral cavity is in the best possible condition for your implants. Otherwise, you might be at risk for possible implant failure later on.
But it isn’t just preliminary treatments that must be factored in. Your actual surgical placement is also considered in the overall cost. Fortunately, you won’t need to worry about multiple payments to different dental professionals because the entire process is carried out under one roof. From the consultation to the surgery to your final implant restoration, your implant dentist in Fayetteville, Dr. Ruff, and our team will be here to keep you comfortable, relaxed, and confident in your new smile.
The Parts of Your Dental Implant
An aspect of treatment you may not have considered as part of the total cost is the parts of your dental implants, specifically the post. With 92.5% of all implants made out of titanium, this is the most popular option for dentists to use. It is also best for fusing to bone and surrounding tissue, which is necessary to ensure the lifespan of your new smile. The brand and manufacturer used is ultimately up to Dr. Ruff, but it’s important to remember that if you are looking to cut costs, the actual implant is not the place to start. Cheaper materials typically do not produce long-lasting results but do not worry, as our team will discuss the materials used to ensure your smile lasts a lifetime.
Final Dental Implant Restoration
The final aspect of your dental implant procedure is receiving the customized restoration. The versatility of dental implants in Fayetteville makes it possible to receive everything from a crown to a bridge to a full denture, but remember, the more teeth that are missing, the greater the cost for your custom-made restoration. Naturally, a single dental crown is much cheaper than a full row of artificial teeth. No matter your need, however, our team will work with the best labs to ensure your new teeth look and feel completely natural, making it virtually impossible for anyone to notice a difference between your real and artificial teeth.
Does My Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
Wouldn’t it be nice if dental insurance companies deemed dental implants “medically necessary?” Unfortunately, most do not, which is why it is necessary to call and discuss your potential plan with your insurer. If they do not offer coverage for the actual procedure, you may be eligible to receive coverage for your preliminary treatments, consultation, and customized restoration. No matter their decision, you’ll need to make sure you have an alternative solution to help pay the remaining or total cost.
Making Dental Implants Affordable
Fortunately, dental implants can still be affordable if you opt to apply for flexible financing through CareCredit. This third-party company teams with dental offices throughout the country to provide eligible patients the opportunity to enroll in a low or no interest payment plan. Not only will this allow you to break up the cost of your dental implant placement, but you’ll be able to stay well within your budget while working toward a healthier, happier smile.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your oral healthcare journey and take back your appearance, our team is here to help you navigate the treatment and financial side of dental implants. From helping you understand the cost of your care to identifying ways to lower your out-of-pocket expense, you can contact our office to schedule an appointment today.
Maintaining & Caring for Your Dental Implants
Dental implants can complete your smile for the rest of your life! However, you need to care for them to ensure that they last as long as possible. If you aren’t protecting your implants from damage and infection, you could experience a dental implant failure or need to have them replaced. However, a few simple precautions and healthy habits can allow you to enjoy your new smile for many years down the road!
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Make Oral Hygiene a Priority
Dental implants themselves can’t get cavities, but you still need to practice excellent oral hygiene to keep your smile healthy. If you experience issues like gum disease or tooth decay in your other teeth, your implants won’t be thriving. Remember to brush twice and floss at least once a day. Rinsing with mouthwash is another great way to keep your smile fresh.
Eat a Healthy Diet
When you have dental implants, you don’t need to worry about any eating restrictions like you would for dentures. However, you should still be wary of certain items. Be careful not to overindulge in hard, sticky, or sugary foods. Eat plenty of foods with calcium and vitamin C to keep your jawbone strong and your gums healthy.
Break Bad Habits
Some bad habits can cause your dental implants to break and/or fail. Refrain from smoking and chewing tobacco products. Doing so can slow down healing and encourage infection in your mouth. Don’t use your teeth as tools and chew on hard items either. You could accidentally damage your replacement tooth.
Protect Your Dental Implants
Your dental implants are strong, but they aren’t indestructible. You should wear a mouthguard to keep your dental implants are natural teeth safe when participating in sports. If you grind your teeth at night, you may want to consider investing in a nightguard to protect your pearly whites from wear and tear over time.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
You should continue to addend your regular cleanings and checkups every six months. In addition to keeping your smile clean, we can monitor your dental implants and remaining teeth to spot any issues as early as possible. The earlier an issue is discovered, the easier it will be to treat.
Dental Implant FAQs
Do you have more questions about dental implant treatment in Fayetteville? We have answers! Our knowledgeable team at Ascot Aesthetic Implants & Dentistry put together this handy Frequently Asked Questions section for patients just like you who are considering dental implants. Take a moment to read the information below. Then, if you still have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to call our office. Dr. Angela C. Ruff is always happy to discuss these matters and more with patients.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper oral hygiene, you can expect your dental implants to remain a part of your smile for decades to come – perhaps even the rest of your life!
You can help preserve your dental implants by being diligent about brushing twice a day and flossing daily, in addition to visiting our office twice a year for an oral exam and professional cleaning.
Will I Need to See an Outside Specialist?
No! While many dentists must send patients to an oral surgeon for the placement part of the implant procedure, at Ascot Aesthetic Implants & Dentistry we can provide full dental implant treatment under a single roof.
As a graduate of the Maxi-Course in Oral Implantology at New York University, Dr. Angela C. Ruff is well-qualified in performing implant treatment. Moreover, she has also completed over 300 hours of advanced training in dental implants.
So, when you choose to partner with our team to get dental implants in Fayetteville, you can forget about having to run all over town to see outside specialists. We will be right there with you every step of the way on your journey to a restored smile.
Why Is It Important to Replace Missing Teeth?
There are numerous reasons that it is important to replace missing teeth, including:
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Dental Drift – Healthy teeth can gradually drift into a dental gap, leading to bite problems and difficulties cleaning.
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Sunken Face – Without teeth to stimulate the jawbone, it can gradually shrink away, leaving your face looking sunken and aged.
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Poor Nutrition – Missing teeth makes it more difficult to eat certain foods that are important to a balanced diet.
Can Smokers Get Dental Implants?
If you are a habitual smoker, you may still be able to have dental implants placed – but you should be aware that there are certain risks involved. The nicotine in tobacco reduces blood flow to the gums, which can interfere with the healing process. Research has shown that smokers can experience a dental implant failure up to 20 percent, dramatically higher than the rate for nonsmokers.
Can Dental Implants in Fayetteville Fail?
While dental implant failure can and does occur, it is extremely rare. In fact, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, dental implants have a success rate of approximately 95%!
So, why do dental implants fail on rare occasions? All of the following factors or circumstances can prevent an implant from fusing with the bone and lead to implant failure:
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Tobacco use
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Diabetes
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Low jawbone density
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Gum disease
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Other oral infections that result from poor oral hygiene
What Are Implants Made From?
Dental implants provide a long-lasting, stable base for a replacement tooth in part because they are made from titanium, an incredibly strong metal. Titanium is also biocompatible, which allows implants to safely fuse with the surrounding jawbone and replace the missing tooth root structure.
