Dental Implant Questions & Answers

A dental implant comprises three key components - a titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. Designed to mimic the natural tooth roots, dental implants offer bone support and a stable base for a single dental crown, dental bridge, denture, or full-arch prosthesis.

The cost of dental implants is determined by a number of factors, such as the number of missing teeth, the duration of time that the teeth have been missing, the materials used, and any additional procedures required. Our team is here to assist you in applying for dental financing and filing insurance claims on your behalf to make the treatment more affordable. Typically, single dental implants start at approximately $95 per month, while a full arch can start at approximately $300 per month.

Some insurance plans will cover 50% or more of implant procedures, but the limiting factor is the annual maximum. Most dental insurance plans have a maximum coverage amount of around $1,000 to $1,500, which unfortunately doesn't cover the cost of most implant procedures. The lack of dental implant insurance has contributed to the rise in many new third-party financing companies such as Cherry Finance, Proceed, and Alphaeon.

Dental implant surgery is completed under sedation, ensuring a painless and comfortable experience. Most patients have no recollection of the procedure. After the surgery, our doctor will give you instructions on how to minimize any discomfort, including prescription medications you can take in the short term to ease any soreness or pain you may feel.

Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, and it is advised to rest for a few days after the procedure is completed. You may experience slight discomfort, which can be relieved by taking over-the-counter or prescription medications. You can typically resume your normal activities after approximately one week of rest. However, you need to follow a soft food diet for the next few months as the implants integrate with your jawbone.

Dental implants require no special maintenance and can be cared for just like natural teeth. It is recommended to brush twice daily and floss once daily. However, depending on the type of restoration, it may be necessary to use a water flosser to remove stubborn food debris. Dental implants, when maintained properly, can provide long-lasting and effective solutions for tooth replacement.

Yes, it is important to continue going to your routine dental appointments even after getting dental implant restorations. Although implants are resistant to decay, they are still susceptible to developing peri-implantitis, which is an infection of the gums around the implants caused by bacteria from plaque and tartar buildup. To prevent this, it is crucial to maintain your regular dental hygiene routine and visit your dentist every six months.

Dental implants are intended to last for several decades and have the potential to last for the remainder of your life. The durability of your implants is ultimately influenced by surgical technology, clinical expertise, and healthy habits. Choosing an experienced implant team like the one at the Florida Dental Implant Institute ensures a more precise and accurate surgery, which increases the likelihood of long-term treatment success.