For patients with missing teeth, failing teeth, or chronic dental problems such as periodontal disease, dental implants can replace one tooth, several teeth, or all of your upper and/or lower teeth.

Dental implants are a safe, comfortable, durable solution that will help restore your health and quality of life.

Patients in Hillsborough often compare dental implants and dental bridges.

While both are effective for replacing missing teeth, dental implants offer several advantages:

Dental Implants: Provide a permanent solution without affecting adjacent teeth. They also help preserve jawbone density.

Dental Bridges: Typically require adjacent teeth to be filed down for support. They do not stimulate the jawbone, which can lead to bone loss over time.

The dental implant procedure at our practice in Hillsborough involves several stages to ensure the best possible outcome:

1. Consultation and Planning: During your initial visit, we will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment options. A personalized treatment plan will be created for you.

2. Implant Placement: The dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration.

3. Abutment Placement: Once the implant has integrated with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant. This serves as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth.

4. Crown Placement: A custom-made crown is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration and providing a natural-looking, functional tooth.

Your oral health is directly connected to your overall health, so it’s important to maintain a healthy smile that will last for years to come.

Improve chewing. Enjoy eating again and get the nutrients you need for good health.

Speak confidently. Dental implants are fixed to your mouth, so there’s no need to worry about slipping or shifting when you speak.

Maintain healthy gums. Unlike dentures that sit on top of your gums and can change their shape over time, dental implants stay put and allow your gums to maintain their shape.

Protect against bone loss. When missing teeth aren’t replaced, it can affect the shape and function of your jawbone and change the appearance of your mouth and face.

Enjoy better oral health. The cracks and crevices in dentures can cause the growth of bacteria, which may cause infection and other health problems. Implants function just like natural teeth, so you can continue your regular brushing and flossing routine.

Feel more confident. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth, so you can worry less about your smile and focus on a better quality of life.

Smile well into the future: One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is their durability and longevity.

Unlike dentures and dental bridges, which may need to be replaced every few years and may need to remove healthy surrounding teeth crown surfaces to work, with proper care dental implants can last a lifetime.

Ultimately, choosing between dental implants and other tooth replacement options depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Consult with your dental provider about the potential benefits and risks, and so you can make the decision that’s right for you.

When it comes to dental implants, one of the most pressing concerns for many people is the cost. Dental implants are an investment in your oral health and overall well-being, and the cost can vary depending on several factors.

On average, the cost can range from $2,500 to $3,500 per implant.

However, this does not include additional procedures such as bone grafting, extractions, or the final crown/prosthesis which can increase the overall cost. It is important to consult with your dental provider to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs.

Insurance coverage of dental implants often depends on whether your medical, dental, or both types of insurance apply. To determine if your insurance covers dental implants, start by reviewing your plan’s details or contacting your insurance provider directly. They can provide you with information about coverage limits, any necessary pre-authorization, and any associated paperwork.

You may also speak with your dental provider’s office staff about the extent of your surgery and what your insurance will cover.

Some things to keep in mind:

If your dental insurance covers implants, make sure you review your annual spending limit because you could have extra out-of-pocket costs.

Some insurance plans may cover the implant but not the prosthetic teeth attached to it.

Your medical insurance may also cover some parts of the procedure, so ask about that.

If you have lost a tooth or need a replacement because of an injury or accident, some insurance policies will cover dental implants as part of that coverage.

Make sure you talk to your insurance provider if you don’t understand your coverage.

If your insurance doesn’t cover dental implants or if you don’t have insurance, don’t fret. There are still options available to help you finance your dental implants. Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options to make the cost more manageable. You can also explore third-party financing options or dental discount plans.

Third-party financing: Many companies specialize in providing financing for dental procedures, including dental implants. These companies offer flexible repayment plans and competitive interest rates, allowing your to get the treatment you need while staying within your budget.

Dental discount plans: An alternative to traditional insurance that can help reduce the cost of dental implants. These plans offer discounted rates for dental procedures, including implants, and can be a cost-effective option for those without insurance.

With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime. The implant itself can last many years and is designed for long-term durability. We’ll teach you how to care for them so you can enjoy your new smile for decades.