Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that take the place of tooth roots and serve as anchors for replacement teeth. The implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once healed, the implants can provide a permanent base for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth. If you have one or more missing teeth and wish to get dental implants, here is what you need to know about the procedure. 

• Explain the dental implant process

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once healed, a dental crown is placed on top of the post, providing a strong, durable tooth replacement option.

Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth. During your initial consultation, you’ll receive a thorough examination, including X-rays and 3D scans. This allows our team to plan your treatment, including the placement of your dental implants.

Your dental implants are placed during a minor surgical procedure. You’ll be given local anesthesia during these procedures to ensure your comfort. Your gums will be slightly lifted, and the titanium post will be surgically placed into your jawbone. 

Once your dental implant has healed, your dentist will attach an abutment to the implant. This is a small piece of metal that protrudes from the gum line. This is used to support the crown, bridge, or denture. Your dentist will take impressions and measurements for your permanent restoration. Once the crown, bridge, or denture is ready, your dentist will attach it.

• What are the advantages of dental implants?

A dental implant is the closest prosthetic to a natural tooth. It provides a root-like foundation for the restoration, reducing the chance of movement and discomfort.

Dental Implants restore both the tooth and root, which makes them the most natural-looking and longest-lasting tooth replacement option. The implant itself does not decay and is impervious to disease.

Dental implants also preserve bone in the jaw, preventing the jaw from receding. Bone loss can lead to a “shrunken” appearance, which is especially noticeable around the person’s smile.

• What happens after dental implants?

After your dental implants have been placed, it’s important to care for them as advised. This may mean eating a soft diet while your gums heal. Your teeth may feel strange for a few weeks until the bone attaches properly. During this time, it’s best to avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pencils, fingernails, and sticky foods.

• Are dental implants painful?

Since a patient will first need to get used to the replaced tooth being in place, there is a slight adjustment period. However, the process is generally fairly painless. Once the implant procedure is complete, patients will be instructed on how to take care of their new teeth. The artificial tooth will blend in with the surrounding teeth and look natural.

• How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implants are to replace missing teeth. The dentist will surgically embed a titanium post into the jawbone. This implant heals and fuses with the jawbone, creating a stable base for an abutment and crown.

The implant itself typically costs $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth. This does not include the abutment and crown, which are separate costs.

For more information on our dental services, schedule an appointment with our dentist at Hallmark Dental Group or visit our dental office in St George at 335 East St George Blvd #201, Saint George, UT 84770.