Hi, I'm Dr. Finley over at Bailey Dental Group, and I'm here today to answer all of your questions about dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a great way to restore either a single tooth or multiple missing teeth. Dental implants are recommended for a number of reasons: either to replace a missing single tooth, to replace multiple missing teeth, or to help secure dentures.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
The advantages of dental implants are numerous. If you're replacing just a single tooth, using a dental implant means that we don't have to touch any of the adjacent teeth to make sure that you get a replacement for that tooth. A dental implant is a great way to restore function to your smile. If you decide to get dental implants, you'll go through a little bit of a process with us to make sure you get the best treatment plan possible. First, you'll do a cone beam x-ray to make sure that we have adequate bone to place the implants. Then, we will create a surgical guide to place your implants. You'll come in for surgery, we'll place the implant, you'll heal for a certain amount of time, and then we will finally restore the implant with either that single tooth or multiple teeth.
What is involved in the dental exam?
During the dental exam for a dental implant, we need to make sure that there's enough room for us to place the implant. Sometimes, if a tooth has been missing for a long period of time, the teeth around it can kind of cave in and give us less space for an implant. So, we need to make sure we have adequate bone to place the implant.
Why is medical history important?
Medical history is very important for dental implants. We need to make sure we totally go over your medical history to make sure that you have adequate healing after your implants are placed.
How will my dentist come up with a treatment plan?
Here at Bailey Dental Group, our treatment plan for implants is pretty simple. We go through the process with you. We do a 3D image to make sure that there's adequate bone and area to place the implants. We'll go over what teeth are being restored with you, whether it's a single tooth or multiple teeth. We will then create a custom surgical guide for your smile so that our implants are guided directly where they're supposed to go. You'll heal from that dental implant surgery, and then we will finally restore those implants for you.
When would bone grafting be required?
Bone grafting would be required for dental implants if there's not enough adequate bone to place the implant. Sometimes, if a tooth has been missing for a long period of time, that area of bone can either get very narrow and not be wide enough for us to place an adequate dental implant. We need to make sure there's enough surface area for that implant to fully integrate into the jawbone to ensure successful healing. Dental implants can be used for a number of restorative options: single tooth crowns, multiple teeth crowns, bridge abutments, and underneath dentures to make them more secure. We can also use dental implants for a fixed hybrid prosthesis, which essentially replaces a full arch of teeth. There are multiple ways dental implants can be restored, depending on how many implants are placed and the extent of what's needed for your personal treatment plan. We usually recommend that the dental implants heal for at least three months to ensure they are optimally integrated into the bone. Dental implants can last many years, but you need to make sure you're seeing your dentist every six months to maintain them well.
Can dental implants get cavities?
Dental implants cannot get cavities; however, they can get bone loss around the implant. It's very important to come in for your cleanings to maintain the health of your implant.
What are the costs associated with dental implants?
The financing and cost of implants are personally tailored to your treatment plan. We go over all of the options with you, including what insurance may or may not cover and our third-party financing options available here in the office. Most insurance plans these days do provide our patients with some benefits for dental implants. Talk to us and our Financial Coordinator to see how your insurance can work for you in your dental implant treatment plan.
How can I get started?
Please give our office a call at (586) 800-2250, and we can set you up with a personal consultation to see how dental implants can be the right treatment for you.
Gaps in your smile can affect every aspect of your daily life, making you feel self-conscious and interfering with your oral health. Drs. Cynthia Bailey and Tess Marie Finley can replace missing teeth and improve your oral health with dental implants. Is it time to reclaim your oral health? Discover why so many Richmond, MI, patients just like you choose dental implants.
Dental Implants offer unrivaled benefits:
Prevent Jawbone Recession
When teeth are lost, the jawbone begins to recede, which can lead to serious dental issues and impact your general health. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that prevents tissue loss in the jaw.
Restore Complete Dental Function
Dental implants replace the entire structure of your tooth from root to crown. These complete artificial teeth mean you can speak clearly, eat comfortably, and smile confidently without worrying about an uncomfortable, artificial-looking restoration.
Ready to Learn More? We Offer Free Consultations for Second Opinions and New Patients.
Tooth Loss is a Common Concern.
Adults lose an average of 7 teeth by the age of 64.
* According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
We Recommend Implants for a Range of Dental Health Conditions:
- Missing Teeth
- Uncomfortable Dentures
- Decayed Teeth
- Broken Teeth
- Shifting Teeth
You Can Trust us With your smile
Learn More About Dental Implants
Since implants were introduced in the field over 40 years ago, they have become the premier method of tooth restoration and transformed modern restorative dentistry. While implants are still considered to be a fairly complex procedure, our doctors have undergone additional training to provide safe and effective results.
Our practice utilizes the most sophisticated dental technology to accurately plan and execute your procedure. With the utmost attention to detail and dedicated service, we ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout every step of the process. If you are looking for an experienced team to trust with your oral health, contact Bailey Dental Group today. You can reach our Richmond, MI, office using our online contact form or by calling is on (586) 800-2250.
I'm ready to book a consultation
A closer look at dental Implants
Covering the basics
A dental implant is a post, often made out of titanium, that is inserted into the jawbone. In just a few months, bone naturally grows around the implant. Once the post is secured in the bone, it can be used to support a dental crown or, alongside additional implants, a dental bridge or an entire denture.
The dentists at our Richmond, MI, dental office use high-quality dental materials to give you back the natural-looking smile and firm bite everyone treasures.
Unlike other tooth-replacement options, dental implants replace both the tooth and the tooth root. This comprehensive solution is not only stable but also encourages bone growth, ensuring a strong jawbone for years to come.
Candidates for Dental Implants:
Irreparable Tooth Damage
While saving a natural tooth will always be our first course of action, sometimes trauma, decay, or infection is so extensive that a tooth is beyond repair. In cases where extraction is necessary, our Richmond, MI, dentists are very likely to recommend placing an implant.
Sufficient Bone Density
In order to support a titanium implant post, patients will need to have adequate jawbone density. If long-term tooth loss has caused you to experience some degree of bone loss, we may recommend a preliminary bone graft to first strengthen and build up the jaw.
Good Overall Health
Implants involve a surgical procedure and are only recommended for patients who are in good health. Certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders can impair your ability to heal properly. Patients should also be non-smokers or quit before treatment.
Begin your smile restoration journey
Contact Us to Request a Consultation
Dental implants are often referred to as the gold standard for tooth replacement. At Bailey Dental Group, we want patients to experience healthy, beautiful, and functional smiles that last a lifetime. If you suffer from tooth loss and are wondering if you are a candidate for dental implants, request a consultation at our Richmond, MI, dental practice by filling out our online form or by calling us on (586) 800-2250.
Request an implant consultation
Incredibly Durable, Lifelike results
Take a look at how implant placement worksDental implants are placed directly in the jawbone, providing a secure and permanent foundation for an implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture. Your permanent restoration can improve your appearance and function just like a natural tooth.
After treatment at our Richmond, MI, dentistry practice, you can expect to enjoy all your favorite foods and smile with confidence.
Your treatment timeline
Dental implants require multiple appointments at our Richmond, MI, practice. The course of treatment usually takes several months following your initial consultation.
1. Consultation
During your first office visit, your dentist will spend time working with you to plan the various steps of your treatment. During this stage, we will determine whether you will need additional work, including preparatory procedures like a bone graft. We partner with a skilled periodontist who can provide treatment in our office.
2. Implant Surgery
After you have recovered from any initial treatment, we will schedule your appointment for implant surgery. During the procedure, the area will be numbed, small incisions will be made in the gums, and titanium implant posts will be carefully positioned in the jaw using x-rays and digital imaging software for the most accurate placement. The incisions will be closed and a temporary restoration may be attached.
3. Osseointegration
Over the course of the next four to six months, the implants will actually fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This ensures a solid and long-lasting foundation.
4. Abutments
Once our dentists have determined that the treatment site is fully healed, you will return to the office to have an abutment (connector piece) attached to the top of each implant. Depending on your situation, our dentist may be able to place your permanent restoration, but in most cases, we let a few weeks pass until your gums have healed.
5. Permanent Restoration
At your final appointment, we will secure your implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture to your abutments. Our dentist will give you simple instructions on aftercare. After the appointment, your new teeth will be fully functional and look just like real teeth.
Recovering from dental implant placement
Here are some tips to make your recovery as smooth as possible:
Take Medications as Directed
Some discomfort is to be expected as your mouth and jaw heal. However, it is usually easily managed with over-the-counter medications. Your dentist may prescribe medications as well. Take medications as directed.
Use Ice Packs to Reduce Swelling
Use ice packs on your jaw to minimize swelling and discomfort. Place them on your cheeks for 20 to 30 minutes at a time.
Eat a Soft Diet to Minimize Irritation
It is best to eat a soft diet for the first one to two weeks following implant placement. This will minimize any irritation to the implant site.
Keep in mind that if you have excessive swelling, bleeding, or pain, or if you notice symptoms such as a fever, please call our Richmond dental practice so we can address your issues promptly.
Can I afford Dental Implants?
The cost of treatment at our Richmond, MI, practice varies from patient to patient. Our dentists will first need to examine your smile before we can provide a personalized estimate.
Regardless of the cost, we try to make the procedure as affordable as possible. Although implants are not usually covered by insurance, we will work with your dental insurance to get as much coverage as possible for your restoration. We also accept flexible financing through CareCredit®, allowing you to make low monthly payments on your treatment.
Consider the overall value
While dental implant treatment is more expensive than traditional restorative methods, it can provide patients with truly invaluable benefits:
- Unlike a removable denture which is prone to slipping out of place, your dental implant-supported restoration will be incredibly secure and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy life without worrying about missing teeth.
- The implants replace your tooth roots, preserving your jawbone and preventing you from developing sunken cheeks and an aged appearance.
- Caring for your implants is nearly as simple as caring for your natural teeth. Forget soaking your denture overnight or applying messy dental adhesives.
- Implant-supported restorations are fixed for maximum convenience, simplifying your lifestyle and hygienic routine.
If you are ready to start experiencing all the benefits of dental implants, contact our Richmond, MI, practice today.
Find out what dental implants will cost in your case
Request a Free Consultation
The only way to find out what a dental implant will cost in your particular case is to request a consultation. We’ll use our high-tech instrumentation to assess your bone density and candidacy for a dental implant, then go over the treatment plan and costs for a beautiful, functional smile. We work with a team of specialists to maintain the highest standards for dental implants.
Throughout the process, patients come first:
- We listen carefully so you know your concerns have been heard.
- We thoroughly explain all aspects of your dental care.
- We work with you to find conservative solutions to your dental needs.
Let's talk about the best way to rebuild your smile. Leave us a message online or call us on (586) 800-2250.
The risk of untreated tooth loss
At our Richmond practice, we often see people who put off needed treatment, stoically choosing to soldier on instead of looking after their own best interests. But when it comes to missing teeth, those good intentions can snowball into heartbreaking losses and more expensive treatments. The cascade can start with a single missing tooth.
Shifting Teeth
A complete set of teeth sit shoulder to shoulder, propping each other up. When a tooth is missing, nearby teeth often start slowly shifting into the vacant space. This then allows other teeth to shift as well.
Damage to Healthy Teeth
As your teeth shift, they begin to slant and look crooked. More importantly, your upper and lower teeth no longer mesh neatly together, which causes uneven wear and tear as they clash against one another.
Further Tooth Loss
More change occurs below the gumline. Without the tooth and the tooth root, the jawbone no longer receives the signals to grow new bone. As the bone recedes, other teeth may loosen and fall out.
Is It Time to Put Yourself First?
If you are missing teeth, the dentists at Bailey Dental Group in Richmond can work with you to find a solution. You may be surprised to find out how easily dental implants can fit into your monthly budget when you take advantage of our flexible CareCredit financing.