Dental implant services in Commack and Dix Hills

A dental implant acts as a permanent replacement for a missing natural tooth. The dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone during dental implant surgery. This allows the dental implant to create a solid foundation in the bone to provide stability. Then, a crown is attached to the dental implant to mimic the natural and realistic look of a tooth. Most patients that receive a dental implant receive the type of implant we call an endosteal implant. An endosteal implant is made of titanium, shaped like a small screw, and inserted into the jawbone. However, in some cases, a dentist recommends a subperiosteal implant. A subperiosteal implant is used when you do not have enough healthy bone in your jaw, so your implant is placed above the jawbone and beneath the gum tissue.

What Happens During a Dental Implant Procedure?

There are multiple dental implant procedure steps; however, the process can slightly vary depending on the type of dental implant(s) you receive. During the first step, your oral surgeon creates an incision in the gum tissue to gain access to the jawbone. After drilling the proper hole dimensions into the jawbone, the titanium dental implant is slowly drilled and inserted precisely into the bone.

The next step after a dental implant procedure is proper healing. Healing will take several months to complete, and during this period of time, your jawbone fuses together with the implant's titanium post, creating a strong bond. After the healing process is completed, a healing abutment, is attached to the implant to properly heal the area around the gums for the dental crown that will later be attached. Once the area and the gums heal around the healing abutment, you'll return to our office so we can take an impression of your teeth. Then, we will use the impression to fabricate a natural-looking dental crown to finalize the esthetic of the dental implant.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants provide many benefits, which explains why they're a popular option for replacing missing teeth. Explore some of the primary dental implant benefits below:

• A natural-looking, beautiful smile
• Improved chewing and speaking abilities
• Enhanced self-esteem
• Comfort
• Easier to care for compared to dentures or bridges
• Ability to preserve bone and prevent future bone loss

How Do You Care for a Dental Implant?

It's important to practice proper dental implant care after surgery. Fortunately, it's surprisingly easy to care for your implants. After your dental implant procedure, you will most likely take over-the-counter pain medication to help manage any discomfort. Once your mouth has healed, you'll care for your implants the same way you care for your natural teeth – brushing, flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and seeing our office for regular exams and cleanings.

Am I a Candidate for Implants?

If you have missing teeth and want to improve your oral health and confidence, you may be an ideal candidate for dental implants. Our experienced dentists will evaluate the health of your mouth and determine if you have enough healthy jawbone to support endosteal implants. Subperiosteal implants may be an option if you've lost bone density in the jawbone. Call our office today to determine if implants are right for you.

How Long Do Implants Last?

"How long does a dental implant last?" is a common question asked by patients who are interested in the comfort and natural appearance that implants provide. In general, the overall health of your mouth, oral hygiene practices, and where the implants are placed in your mouth are the factors that determine how long your implants will last. Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist twice a year can help your implants last from ten years to a lifetime.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

The cost of dental implants depends on numerous factors such as the type of implant(s) you receive, whether you need a bone graft to improve bone density, and the type of dental crown that is used. Although implants typically cost more than other restoration options, they're absolutely worth the investment due to their longevity, durability, natural appearance, and success rate. If you're concerned about the cost of your dental implant procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our dentists to learn more.

Is Dental Implant Insurance Available?

Most dental insurance plans will not cover the full expense of implants. However, even if dental implant insurance isn't available through your insurance provider, it's still possible for you to manage the cost of dental implants in our office because of our flexible payment options. Call Helfner Dental Associates today to learn more about what we can do to make dental implant treatment affordable for you!