Dental Implants Made Simple: A Patient’s Guide to Comfortable, Long‑Lasting and Affordable New Teeth
If you avoid smiling and your favorite foods due to missing teeth and loose or uncomfortable dentures, dental implants might be the solution. Implants at the Ocean Township, New Jersey office of Ocean Shore Dentistry replace missing teeth. They are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
How do dental implants replace teeth?
The implant is a small and biocompatible (tissue-compatible) post that is placed in the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. Commonly made of titanium, the implant serves as a “new root” for the replacement tooth. After the implant is fixed in place, it allows patients to chew, speak, laugh, smile, and otherwise function naturally. Since they are anchored in the bone, implant-supported prosthetic teeth often feel more stable than conventional removable dentures.
Can I afford dental implants?
Our team can help with that! There are many payment options at our office designed to fit each patient’s budget. For instance, we offer flexible financing through both CareCredit® and Cherry. We also developed our own in-house membership plan. There are no annual maximums or limitations related to the value/amount of treatment. Additionally, discounts are built into the program, and members can combine our plans with CareCredit® or Cherry. We feel that cost pressures should never stand between you and your healthiest, most attractive smile.
Who are the best candidates for dental implants?
Only a dentist like Dr. Ravi Shah can determine whether implants are appropriate after an exam and a review of each patient’s health history. As a general rule, good candidates:
- Are adults whose jaw growth is complete
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Have healthy gums
- Have adequate bone to support implants
- Are committed to good oral hygiene and regular professional care
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products, which can impair healing
What is the step-by-step process of getting implants?
First, we schedule an initial consultation and evaluation with you. During this visit, Dr. Shah examines your mouth, reviews your medical history, and discusses your goals. X-rays and other imaging methods are generally used to evaluate bone health and surrounding structures. These technologies include Cone Beam CT (CBCT). This technology allows us to create a 3-dimensional digital reconstruction of your mouth. Such advanced technologies support precise treatment planning. Next, Dr. Shah reviews the findings and explains your treatment options. Third, the implant placement is performed under local anesthesia (sometimes with additional options for comfort). Then we wait for the bone to gradually fuse with the implant.
Once healing is complete, an abutment or connector piece is attached to the implant. Impressions are taken and used to make your custom crown or other prosthesis. Lastly, the crown, bridge, or denture is placed. Dr. Shah confirms the appearance, fit, bite, and comfort of the prosthetic and makes necessary adjustments.
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How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to provide a durable and lasting solution for missing teeth. When maintained appropriately, these implants can remain effective for many years. To get the most out of your new teeth, exercise good oral hygiene habits; maintain regular dental exams and professional cleanings; minimize risk factors (like smoking); and follow Dr. Shah’s instructions for care and follow-ups.
How do implants compare to bridges or dentures?
Unlike bridges, implants replace missing teeth without relying on neighboring teeth. They keep the neighboring teeth intact. Implants are also fixed in place in the jawbone, unlike removable dentures. Importantly, implants are distinct from bridges and dentures because they stimulate the jawbone in the area where the tooth was lost. This helps maintain bone health and preserve facial structure, appearance, and function.
Dental implants can offer a stable, comfortable, and potentially lifelong solution to tooth loss for the right patients. While they cost more upfront than bridges or dentures, implants are a good value because they can last so long and avoid damaging and costly complications of tooth loss (like bone loss in the jaw). To find out if implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shah at our Ocean Township, NJ office. Call Ocean Shore Dentistry at (732) 466-3966 today.
