If you have a lost tooth or many missing teeth, you can replace them with a dental implant-secured dental restoration. Teeth implants can support dental crowns, dentures, and dental bridges to deliver a more stable and comfortable smile.
Dr. Ben Ahlbrecht offers dental implants in Indianapolis, IN. This restorative dental solution is one of the best options for patients who want to restore their smile after tooth loss.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Implants offer many benefits to patients with missing teeth. They:
- Restore damaged or decayed teeth
- Restore normal chewing and biting ability
- Have no dietary restrictions
- Are a conservative treatment option
- Prevent other teeth from shifting out of alignment over time
- Reduce the risk of gum infection and tooth decay
- Prevent further jaw bone loss
- Have a long-term success rate of 90-95%
Most implant patients enjoy their tooth replacements for life with no need for future replacement or repair. As an added plus, the crown that caps off the implant looks and feels real. Because of this, many patients forget that they have one or more dental implants.
Getting Ready for Dental Implants
Before you can get implants, some patients need a little extra preparation to make sure their jawbone is strong enough to support them. Just like building a house needs a solid foundation, implants need healthy bone to stay secure.
For some patients, this might mean bone grafting and sinus lifts. These steps help create the best conditions for your future implants to succeed. Don’t worry, we’ll explain everything and make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
Our dentist in Indianapolis, IN, will work with a local specialist as needed to help you establish a healthy and stable base for implants.
Bone Grafting
If your jawbone is too thin or soft, we may add a special bone material to help it grow stronger. This is like giving your jaw a boost so it can hold implants properly.
Dental implants rely on bone tissue to support the titanium post. However, some patients who have lost one or more teeth don’t have enough healthy bone tissue. Some patients will need a bone graft procedure to prepare for a new restoration. This includes dental implants or an implant-secured bridge or denture.
Your dentist or oral surgeon may perform a bone graft after a tooth extraction to prevent jawbone atrophy and maintain the jawbone. Other grafting methods can reduce bone loss by transferring bone from the lower jaw.
Sinus Lift
For implants in the upper back teeth area, we might need to gently adjust the sinus space above your jawbone to make room. A sinus lift creates enough supporting bone to allow implant placement. The surgeon can perform this procedure using local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and oral sedation.
During treatment, your oral surgeon exposes the bone adjacent to the sinus so he can make a small opening. Then they gently move the membrane lining to make room for new bone material. After they place the graft, they close the incision with sutures. The oral surgeon can complete a sinus lift in conjunction with the implant procedure.
Patient Review
The Dental Implant Procedure at North Meridian Dental Excellence
Before treatment, Dr. Ahlbrecht will conduct a full dental health exam. This will help him understand the current state of your oral health, and decide if you’re a good candidate for implants. If you qualify for dental implants, Dr. Ahlbrecht will create a treatment plan to replace your missing teeth. It will include the number of implants you need, where they will go, the type of dental restoration you will need, and cost.
Dr. Ahlbrecht works with top local specialists to perform the surgical phase of the implant process. After the implantation, he will follow up with you to monitor your healing. During this time, he will begin preparing your final dental restoration.
You will need about three to six months to heal after surgery. During this time, the implants will fuse with the surrounding jawbone. After that, the next step is to secure the abutments to the implants. The abutments hold the replacement teeth in place.
The last step in the process is to attach your replacement tooth or custom dental restoration. This will be a custom porcelain crown if you’re missing one tooth. If you’re missing multiple teeth or a full arch of teeth, your dentist will attach a dental bridge or a denture. If you’re getting a denture, we may complete all phases of treatment in one day using a process known as All-on-four.
All-on-four dental implants rely on advanced diagnostics and treatment planning. This can include tooth extractions, implant placement, and attaching a hybrid denture in one day of coordinated care.
Dental Implant FAQs
Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement, but do you know all there is to know about them? Read answers to commonly asked questions here.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last for decades, often 25 years or more with proper care. They’re made from durable titanium, which can withstand the pressures of biting and chewing. Depending on wear and tear, you might need to replace the crown or tooth attached to the implant every 10-15 years. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene can help extend the life of your implant.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire process of getting dental implants can take several months. First, the implant is placed into the jawbone and left to heal for about 3-6 months. After the bone fully integrates with the implant, your dentist will attach a crown, bridge, or denture to the implant. It may take longer if you need other procedures, like bone grafts or extractions. Dr. Ahlbrecht will provide a timeline specific to your case.
Will I need a bone graft before getting dental implants?
If your jawbone has deteriorated because of tooth loss or gum disease, a bone graft may be necessary. Patients who waited too long to replace their lost teeth usually need a bone graft. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to the jaw to promote new bone growth. Dr. Ahlbrecht will first assess your bone density to see if you need a graft before placing the implant.
Will my dental implants look natural?
Yes, dental implants look and work just like real teeth. The crown placed on top of the implant is custom-made to match your natural teeth’s color, shape, and size. This ensures a seamless and aesthetic result that blends in with your smile. Dental implants provide a more realistic and permanent solution than dentures or bridges.
Are there any restrictions on what I can eat after getting dental implants?
After getting a dental implant, you should stick to soft foods for the first few days or weeks to avoid putting pressure on the implant site. You should completely avoid hard and sticky foods until the implant fully heals and integrates with the bone. Following these recommendations is important to ensure the implant heals properly. Dr. Ahlbrecht will provide specific instructions on when to return to a normal diet.
Will my dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
Dental insurance may partially cover the cost of dental implants, but coverage varies depending on the plan. Many insurance companies consider implants a cosmetic procedure and won’t cover them entirely. However, some plans may help cover the surgery, anesthesia, or crown cost. Check with your dental insurance provider to see what exactly they can cover.
We will work with you to make sure you can restore your smile without worry. We can help you find financing options, and other avenues so you get the care you need.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Visit our Indianapolis dental practice for all your dental implant needs. Call North Meridian Dental Excellence today at 317-204-7134. You can also schedule an appointment online anytime. Our team is here to answer any questions and help you without judgement.
