Dental Implants
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, that provide a strong and permanent foundation for replacement teeth. They are a popular solution for individuals who have lost a tooth or multiple teeth due to periodontal disease, injury, or other dental issues. At Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa, OK, we specialize in providing high-quality dental implants that restore your smile and confidence.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they undergo a process known as osseointegration—a period of a few months during which the implant fuses with the bone. Once the implant is fully integrated, it acts as a stable anchor for custom-made crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing both durability and aesthetics.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Most adults in good overall health with sufficient bone density in the jaw are candidates for dental implants. However, an in-depth evaluation by a qualified oral surgeon in Tulsa is required to determine your eligibility for the procedure. Factors such as medical history, bone health, and oral hygiene are assessed during this consultation.
How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants have an impressive success rate of up to 98% when properly cared for. With routine dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices, your implants can last a lifetime. At Elite Oral Surgery of Tulsa, our experienced team ensures a smooth and successful procedure for every patient.
Is the Implantation Procedure Painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the dental implant procedure. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area, and patients often experience less pain than they would during a tooth extraction. Our team in Tulsa is committed to making the experience as comfortable as possible.
How Do I Care for Dental Implants?
Caring for dental implants is much like caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash are essential to maintain the health of your implants. Routine check-ups at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa help ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.
How Long Does the Dental Implant Procedure Take?
The length of the dental implant procedure varies based on the number of implants needed and the specifics of your case. For a single implant, the procedure usually takes between one and two hours. Your oral surgeon in Tulsa will provide a more accurate timeline during your consultation.
What Is the Recovery Time After Getting Dental Implants?
Recovery times after dental implant surgery can vary. Many patients are able to return to their normal activities the next day, although full healing, including osseointegration, may take six to twelve weeks. Your Tulsa oral surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
What Are the Risks Associated With Dental Implants?
As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with dental implants, including infection, nerve damage, or delayed bone healing. However, these risks are rare and can be minimized with proper surgical techniques and diligent follow-up care at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa, OK.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost, and Are They Covered by Insurance?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the complexity of your case and geographic location. While some dental insurance plans may cover part of the procedure, coverage varies. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your benefits. At Elite Oral Surgery of Tulsa, we also offer various payment options to make dental implants accessible for our patients.
Can Dental Implants Fail?
Although rare, dental implants can fail due to factors such as infection, insufficient bone mass, or improper placement. Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure. Our skilled team at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa takes every precaution to ensure the highest success rates for our patients.
What Is the Advantage of Dental Implants Over Dentures or Bridges?
Dental implants provide a permanent solution that does not require the grinding down of adjacent teeth, as is the case with bridges. They also preserve bone health, maintaining the integrity of your facial structure, and unlike dentures, they do not need to be removed daily. For patients in Tulsa, dental implants offer a long-term, natural-looking solution to missing teeth.