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Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great way to help improve the appearance and confidence of those who have one or more missing teeth in their smile. Each implant is designed to look, function, and feel like a natural tooth, which allows you to perform daily actions, such as speaking and eating, with confidence once again. At Smile Design Modern Dentistry – Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentist has received advanced training and gained years of experience in performing dental implant procedures. We invite you to contact our office today at 919-220-5505 and schedule your appointment with Dr. Erfan Imeni to learn whether dental implants in Durham, North Carolina, are right for you!
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that acts as an anchor for your replacement tooth. The post is inserted into the jawbone to replace the roots of your missing tooth; the surrounding bone can then fuse with the implant as it would your natural tooth’s roots. Once the implant is in place, our dentist can attach a dental restoration to the top. Most restorations are a crown or bridge. The finalized implant is designed to look, function, and feel just like your natural teeth.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or an entire dental arch. Because the implant acts as an anchor, your crown, bridge, or partial denture can remain securely in place.
What Benefits Do Dental Implants Offer?
There are many benefits to dental implants, but some of the most significant benefits include:
- A healthier, more beautiful smile. When you lose a tooth, the supporting bone begins to deteriorate and shrink. This can not only affect the stability and function of your jaw but also cause your face shape to change. Because dental implants are inserted into the bone, they prevent bone loss and help your face maintain its natural shape. Dental implants also only affect the area of the missing tooth. There is no need to grind down neighboring teeth to accommodate a restoration.
- More comfortable restorations. Dental implants are securely inserted into the bone, which means they do not become loose or slip out of place as dentures do. In addition, because the restorations are attached to the implant and do not lie directly on the gum tissue, you can avoid common denture issues, such as gum irritation, exposed nerves, or ill-fitted restorations.
- A more confident you. When you replace your missing teeth with dental implants, you no longer have to be embarrassed about showing off your smile. Because dental implants do not move around like dentures, you can also speak and eat with confidence and without discomfort. Your smile will look and feel better, and when your smile feels great, you feel great!
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
If your oral health is good enough to handle a tooth extraction, you are most likely a good candidate for a dental implant. Dental implants are great for patients who are missing teeth as a result of injury, decay, disease, or other reasons. Generally, patients need to have good oral health and sufficient bone density to receive an implant. When you visit with Dr. Erfan Imeni, he can help you know if a dental implant is right for you.
Implant Cases
CBCT 3D X-Ray Guided Implants
CBCT Technology allows for 3D views of the entire jaw of patients. With this 3D view, Implant planning software is used to fabricate a guide that drives implants precisely in the planned position.
3D Printer & 3D Printed Surgical Guide on Stone Model
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that acts as an anchor to a dental restoration. The implant is inserted into your jawbone to replace the roots of your missing teeth, and your restoration is attached to the top of the implant.
Will my restoration look natural?
Absolutely! Dental implants are designed to feel, look, and function like your natural teeth.
Am I a good candidate for a dental implant?
You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you have good oral health and sufficient bone density. Anyone who is missing a tooth, whether from decay, injury, or other factors, may be a good candidate.
How successful are dental implants?
Dental implants have carried a high success rate for more than three decades. While our dentist can successfully insert your implant, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for your implant to last.
Are dental implants painful?
All dental implant procedures are performed under anesthesia to help minimize any discomfort. After surgery, Dr. Erfan Imeni may prescribe pain medication; however, most patient experience minimal discomfort during their recovery at home. Generally, patients feel great the following day and can return to work and other daily activities.
How much does the treatment cost?
Treatment cost varies, depending on how many implants you have placed. Cost is also affected by the type of restoration you receive, and other factors that your personal case may involve. After a thorough examination from our dentist, we can provide an estimate of your treatment cost.
Does insurance cover dental implant procedures?
Your insurance may cover your implant procedure, depending on your specific insurance plan. If your insurance plan does not currently cover implants, it may be possible to receive additional coverage. We encourage you to talk with your insurance provider to discuss your coverage options.
How long does the procedure take?
Completing a dental implant procedure involves several steps, including a healing period, which varies by patient. Generally, treatment can last several months; however, there are some options where implants can be placed and restorations completed immediately.
To learn more about dental implants, and to schedule your appointment with our caring dentist, Dr. Erfan Imeni, we invite you to contact our office today! We look forward to caring for your smile!
