Replacing a missing tooth - or missing teeth - is a vital step in maintaining good oral health. Each tooth relies on the one next to it for support. When you lose a tooth, this support is lost. Over time they can begin to shift, putting you at risk for crowding, tooth decay, misaligned bites, and more. 

Finding a solid tooth replacement that can give you the functionality of a real tooth as well as the appearance to match can be all that is needed to transform your oral health and give your teeth the support they need. 

Let’s take a closer look at dental implants, including how they work and what they are made of. 

The Parts of a Dental Implant

Dental implants are essentially made up of 3 different parts - the implant, the abutment, and the tooth. 

The implant itself is a post that is inserted into the jawbone where it is left so that the two can fuse together. Formally known as osseointegration, this fusing process can take some time. For most patients, proceeding to the next step doesn’t take place for a few months. This way the dentist can ensure the implanted artificial root is sturdy enough to successfully anchor the tooth.

The artificial tooth, a dental crown, is attached to an abutment. This is then screwed into the implant, allowing the tooth to be anchored securely. 

Each part of the implant plays a pivotal role in the process, but they are not made of the same material. 

A Titanium Post and Abutment

The most commonly used implant is a small titanium post. The abutment that holds the tooth is also made of the same material. Titanium is a biocompatible metal that poses minimal risks - and it is sturdy enough to hold the tooth in place. Believe it or not, it has been used in this procedure since the mid-1980s so there is a history to back up its level of safety and effectiveness. 

Titanium is a metal that is strong enough to last a lifetime. And, that’s important for those looking for a long-lasting tooth replacement. 

A Ceramic Crown

Dental crowns are used to create the artificial tooth that is attached to the abutment and then placed in the anchor. One of the most commonly used materials for this type of crown is ceramic. They are strong and durable, hypoallergenic, contain no metal, and look completely natural. In fact, they are custom-made to blend in well with your surrounding teeth in size, color, shape, contour, and so forth. 

Although ceramic crowns are most often used with dental implants, it is worth noting that there are different types, too. These include:

• Porcelain fused to metal 
• Gold alloys
• Base metal alloys
• Composite material

Your dentist will help you determine the best option for you. 

Dental Implants at Oakland Dental Care

If you have one or more missing teeth and are interested in dental implants, Oakland Dental Care can help. Backed by much experience, we provide high-quality dental implants using the utmost precision and skill. 

To learn more or to get started, contact us today at 201-337-7733. Or, request an appointment online.

Dental implants are the best solution to replace missing teeth because they mimic a natural tooth in functionality, appearance, and durability. But there are some cases where a full dental implant is not an option. In that case, your dentist may talk with you about mini dental implants. Mini dental implants can last as long as full-size dental implants, in patients who practice excellent oral hygiene and see the dentist regularly.  Read on to learn more about mini dental implants (MDIs).

What are mini dental implants?

Mini dental implants are smaller-sized dental implants, often used to replace a small tooth. Mini dental implants use a surgically implanted post, rather than a larger, surgically implanted screw. Mini dental implants do not require the placement of an abutment on top of the implant. Instead, the post has a ball on it that fits into the artificial tooth that is used to replace the missing tooth.  

Mini dental implants may be recommended if there is inadequate jaw bone to support a full-size dental implant screw.  

Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants offer similar benefits to full-size dental implants. These include:

• Natural appearance
• Preserves jaw bone/promotes bone restoration
• The implant serves as the tooth root
• Permanent, fixed solution to missing teeth
• Implants can support bridges or removable arch dentures
• Prevents sunken appearance/changing facial structure

Additionally, mini dental implants offer the benefit of being a less invasive surgical procedure. This means that the procedure can often be completed in a single visit, with local anesthesia only. This leads to a quicker recovery than with full-size implants. 

Mini dental implants are also less expensive than full-size implants. In many cases, mini dental implants do not require the patient to have bone grafting before receiving implants. Finally, mini dental implants can replace small teeth, such as incisors. 

Mini Dental Implant Procedure

If your dentist has decided that you are a candidate for mini dental implants, here is what to expect during the procedure.

1. Your gums and jaw will be completely numbed
2. A tiny hole will be drilled into the jaw bone
3. The post will be placed in the jaw bone
4. The post will be tightened/secured
5. The artificial tooth will be attached to the end of the post. 

Am I a Candidate for Mini Dental Implants?

Many people will be excellent candidates for mini dental implants. They are a great option for people missing small teeth. They are also a great option for those who may not have enough jaw bone to support a full implant. 

Children are not good candidates for mini dental implants because their mouths and jaw bones are still growing. Individuals who grind their teeth are also not ideal candidates for mini dental implants as the artificial tooth will experience undue wear and tear.  

Individuals with certain underlying health conditions may not be good candidates for mini or full-size dental implants. Health conditions and lifestyle factors that may prevent you from being eligible for dental implants include:

• Vascular disease
• Diabetes
• Hemophilia
• Gum disease (periodontitis)
• Tobacco/nicotine use (smokeless, cigarettes, vaping)
• Severe decay and bone loss in the jaw

Patients being treated for cancer are not eligible for implants. Likewise, those who take anticoagulant medications should speak with their dentist about alternatives to implants

Learn More About Mini Dental Implants in Oakland, NJ

If you’re ready to learn more about options for replacing missing teeth, such as mini dental implants, schedule a consultation at Oakland Dental Care.  We are located minutes from Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, Ringwood, Bloomingdale, and surrounding communities in Bergen County. Call 201-337-7733 or request an appointment online.

Many of our patients wonder if they should consider replacing their dentures with dental implants, or opt for an implant instead of a bridge when a tooth needs to be extracted. While they know the benefits of dental implants, there’s one thing that holds them back: the cost. Before you assume dental implants are out of reach for you, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with us so you know exactly what to expect. Below, we answer some of the most common questions patients have about the cost of dental implants in Bergen County.

What do dental implants cost in Bergen County?

Although many people use the term “dental implants” to describe a full restoration for a missing tooth, there are actually three components involved—the dental implant, which is the post that is implanted into the jaw to replace the root, the restoration that replaces the visible portion of your tooth, and an abutment piece that connects the two.

In Bergen County, a single implant fixture might cost anywhere from $1500 to $2500. The cost of the restoration attached to the implant can range from $2100 to $3500. The total cost of replacing teeth with implants depends on the number of teeth, the type of restoration required, and the material chosen for the restoration.

Another factor that can increase the cost involved in getting dental implants is whether you require any additional procedures in order to prepare for implant surgery. Tooth extractions may be required, or if you've been missing teeth for a long time, a sinus lift or bone grafts could be needed to reconstruct your jawbone and provide a firm base of support for your implants.

Why are dental implants so expensive?

When you compare the costs of dental implants to bridges and dentures, you may wonder what makes implants more expensive. It's simple: with dental implants, you pay for replacing the root and the crown of a tooth, whereas with bridges and dentures, you only pay to replace the crown.

Dental implants must be surgically implanted since they replace the tooth's root. This means that you’ll have to pay for the surgical procedure, along with the imaging, planning, and follow-up appointments needed for it. Then, there’s the cost of the biocompatible implant posts and restorations, along with any supplemental procedures like bone grafts.

That said, dental implants are made to last a lifetime and help you maintain better oral health by preventing and reversing bone loss in the jaw. These advantages outweigh the additional cost for the vast majority of patients, and in the long run, dental implants may help you avoid costly restorative and periodontal work needed to address future bone loss.

Does insurance pay for dental implants?

Insurance coverage for dental implants varies from one provider to the next. Insurers are increasingly providing coverage for dental implants, but there is a lot of inconsistency in how they’re covered. Some dental insurance policies, for example, may cover the implant restorations but not the implant posts. Others may only pay for dental implants if you've lost teeth since your insurance coverage began. Your medical insurance may also cover implants in some situations. Our staff can assist you in understanding your benefits.

Are dental implants worth it?

Our patients are thrilled with their dental implants. Implant-supported restorations look, feel, and function more like natural teeth than dentures or bridges. Dental implants are also the healthiest solution for missing teeth. They don't rely on other teeth for support, and they keep the jawbone from breaking down, giving you a stronger bite and a more youthful appearance.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Do you have questions about dental implants? Contact us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.

Because dental implants are a significant investment in both time and money, most patients want to know how long their restorations will last before committing to the procedure. If you're wondering how long dental implants last, the answer is a bit complicated because each component of an implant-based restoration has its own expected lifespan.

Understanding Dental Implants

Although we often talk about “dental implants” as if they’re a single restoration, most implant-based restorations have three different parts: the dental implant itself, the restoration that attaches to it, and an abutment piece that connects the two. (Note that abutments are not required for certain types of dental implants, such as mini dental implants and same-day dental implants.)

The restoration replaces the visible portion of one or more missing teeth. This restoration could be a dental crown, a dental bridge, or a fixed or removable denture. A single dental implant is used to support a single crown, two dental implants are normally required for bridges, and several implants are necessary for dentures.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are surgically placed into the jaw so they can fuse with the jawbone. This fusion of implant and bone is known as osseointegration. Osseointegration makes your dental implant as stable as a natural tooth, and this stability means that it will likely last a lifetime and never need to be replaced.

However, there are some exceptions to this. While the majority of dental implant fixtures will last a lifetime, no dental procedure has a 100% success rate, and this is true of dental implants as well. Implant failure is more common in patients who do not follow aftercare instructions, smoke, have poor oral hygiene habits, or do not see the dentist on a regular basis for preventive care and follow-up appointments. Outside of these situations, it is uncommon for a dental implant to fail.

How Long Do Implant-Supported Restorations Last?

The majority of implant-supported restorations will eventually need to be replaced, with most lasting five to 10 years on average. Your restorations will last longer if you maintain appropriate oral hygiene habits to keep your gums and remaining natural teeth healthy and visit your dentist every six months for a comprehensive oral evaluation and dental cleaning. Although restorations are not susceptible to cavities, they must be cleaned and flossed to remove the bacteria that causes gum disease, which is one of the leading causes of implant failure.

Grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw, chewing on ice, biting your nails, or opening packages with your teeth can all damage and shorten the life of your restorations. It's also crucial to choose the right material for your crown, bridge, or denture. A high-quality restoration will not only look and feel natural, but it will also have the ability to last for decades with proper care.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Are you considering dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth? Contact us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule a consultation to learn more about dental implants.