Teeth are remarkably strong. Not just because of their protective shell of enamel, but also because they are rooted in the jawbone. This provides a sturdy foundation that lets you chew and speak with ease. When a tooth is lost, most traditional replacements only restore the part of the tooth you can see. Therefore, such treatments are much less stable and reliable than natural teeth. Dental implants in Branford, on the other hand, bring back both a tooth’s crown as well as its root, providing a replacement that is almost as good as the real thing. At New Haven Dental Group, we may be able to fill in any gaps in your smile using this one-of-a-kind solution. Unlike other dental offices in our area, we can perform every stage of the treatment in one convenient location
Dental implants are comprised of three main parts: an implant post, an abutment, and a final restoration. The implant post is inserted into the jawbone to replace the roots of the missing teeth. These are typically made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that will fuse with the surrounding bone tissue. This forms a reliably stable foundation for the final restoration on top, which is securely held in place with a small connector piece called an abutment. A dental crown, bridge, or denture can be anchored into place depending on how many teeth you’re missing, and it will be custom-made to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your pearly whites. Rebuilding missing teeth like this restores a smile that looks, feels, and functions just like natural. As such, dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard of tooth replacement by both dentists and patients.
How dental implants work in Branford involves several treatment steps, including an implant placement surgery. Most other dental offices must refer patients to expensive outside specialist to have this part of the dental implant procedure completed. At New Haven Dental Group, however, we are able to perform the entire implant treatment ourselves in-office. We thus save patients time, money, and stress while they undergo tooth replacement. With us, you will enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being able to work with the same doctor and team throughout your entire dental implant journey.
Although the implant process can vary from person to person, it generally involves four main steps: consultation, implant surgery, osseointegration, and restoration.
Your implant dentist in Branford will examine your mouth and learn about your medical history. They may also use advanced imaging technology to understand the structure of your jawbone. With that information, they will be able to tell you if you qualify for dental implants right away or if you must go through some preliminary treatments, such as a bone graft or extractions. Feel free to ask any questions you may have during your consultation — we want all of our patients to feel confident and well-informed about their treatment options!
We do not have to refer patients to outside practices for this delicate part of the dental implant process. We enjoy giving our patients the peace of mind that comes from working with the same team from the beginning to the end of their treatment.
The surgery itself is not too complex or lengthy. First, we will numb the mouth and possibly sedate you. Once you are comfortable, incisions will be made in your gums. After the implants are inserted into your jawbone at precise, pre-planned positions, the incisions will be closed, and you will go home to start your recovery. Most patients are able to return to work within a few days of their procedure.
Osseointegration is the biological process through which dental implants fuse with the bone around them. It is what enables the implants to serve as sturdy prosthetic tooth roots. The timeline for osseointegration varies from case to case, but it typically requires at least a few months.
Following osseointegration, you might have to undergo a second minor surgery. The dental implants in Branford will be exposed, and healing caps will be placed on them. Later, you will receive abutments. Abutments are small connector pieces whose job is to keep your restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) in place. (Some patients are able to receive abutments at the same time as their initial implant surgery.)
The last step in your journey is the restoration phase. We will take detailed images of your mouth, and your dentist will design your new teeth. We take care to ensure that the size, shape, and color of restorations are aesthetically pleasing. We will also analyze your bite to make sure that your new crown, bridge, or denture will be as functional as possible. After a laboratory fabricates your restoration, we will verify its fit and quality before we attach it to your implants.
If you have lost one or more teeth, there are several different treatments that might be able to fill in the gap and help you once again enjoy a complete smile. Each treatment option has unique advantages, but dental implants offer more — and greater — benefits than other types of tooth replacement. Read on to learn about some of the reasons why dentists and patients alike regard dental implants as the best way to rebuild lost teeth.
Dental implants themselves are dark in color because they are made out of a titanium alloy. However, they virtually disappear after they are inserted into the bone. The restorations that get placed on top of the implants are carefully crafted to complement a patient’s unique facial features. Their every detail, including their size, shape, and color, is meant to look and feel completely natural. Many people find that the beautiful appearance of dental implants gives them a much-needed confidence boost!
With some types of tooth replacement, including traditional dentures, you must avoid certain foods or take extra precautions when you eat. Dental implants are different. They function similarly to natural teeth and are able to handle virtually any food, whether it is a juicy steak, crunchy raw vegetables, or your favorite movie time snack.
Traditional dentures may last for 5 – 10 years, while a fixed bridge might endure for 10 – 15 years. Over time, repeatedly replacing these types of tooth replacement can become bothersome and expensive. Dental implants boast a much longer life expectancy. In fact, it is not unusual for them to last for a patient’s entire lifetime! The restorations on top of them may also last for many years.
Tooth loss leads to bone loss in the jaw. Over time, the bone loss can reach the point where the jaw is visibly smaller than it once was. Plus, the absence of teeth can create a sunken facial appearance that is often associated with old age. Dental implants help to preserve the jawbone and allow patients to retain their face’s natural, youthful facial shape for as long as possible.
Caring for dental implants does not require a lot of time or effort. In fact, in many ways, you can care for them in the same way that you would care for natural teeth. You should thoroughly brush them twice a day and floss once a day. If you have a removable implant-supported prosthetic, you should take it out of your mouth every night to clean it. It is also important that you visit us for twice-yearly checkups so we can ensure that your dental implants are continuing to thrive.
No matter how many teeth you have lost, dental implants in Branford may be a viable treatment option. They are often ideal for adults of all ages who have lost one tooth, a few teeth, or even all of their teeth. During your consultation, we will carefully evaluate your circumstances in order to design a custom treatment plan. If you cannot receive dental implants right away, we may become a candidate after some preliminary treatments. Depending on the extent of your tooth loss, we will recommend the type of restoration that we believe will serve you best.
Most adults do qualify for dental implants, either right away or after some preparatory procedures. Most candidates have the following traits in common:
While some patients opt for a traditional bridge to replace a single tooth, that choice has some disadvantages. For example, it requires the abutment teeth to be significantly altered, and it does nothing to replace the root of the lost tooth. A single dental implant, along with a custom-made crown, is superior. It rebuilds the tooth from the root up and allows the nearby natural teeth to remain intact.
If your missing teeth are consecutive, an implant bridge might be ideal for you. It may require just a single implant if you are missing two teeth in a row. In order to replace three or more teeth, you will likely require at least two dental implants — one will be placed at each end of the empty space. They will support crowns and pontics to fill in the gap.
On the other hand, if your missing teeth are not all adjacent, you might qualify for an implant-supported partial denture or multiple single-implant crowns. Our team will help you compare the pros and cons of all of your treatment options.
Patients who are missing all of their teeth have a few options when it comes to implant dentures. You might be able to get a removable overdenture with the support of as few as two or three dental implants. For a sturdier prosthetic, we might recommend that you receive a permanently fixed full-arch bridge (sometimes called a hybrid prosthesis) that will be supported by at least 4 – 6 dental implants. Each type of implant denture comes with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
One of the best things about dental implants is that they are so versatile; they can be used to replace practically any number of teeth. Because of this, there is no set price for the treatment — it varies from patient to patient. Before we begin treatment, we will go over all pricing information with you so there are never any unpleasant surprises. While implants may cost a significant amount of money, we believe they are a worthwhile investment!
It is quite common for patients to need some preliminary treatment before they receive dental implants. For example, your implant dentist in Branford might inform you that you require periodontal therapy, a bone graft, or tooth extractions. Each of these services comes with its own price.
The dental implant placement surgery has a separate fee. Its price depends on how many implants we are placing, the type and amount of sedation used, and other factors. We perform this surgery in-house, so you will not have to worry about dealing with the pricing structure of an unfamiliar dental practice.
Not all dental implants in Branford are the same. Most feature two-piece construction, but some are made out of a single piece. While a titanium alloy is usually the material of choice, implants may also be made out of zirconia or other biocompatible options. The type of implant that we recommend for you will affect the overall price of your treatment. If more than one type of implant might be suitable for your situation, we will clearly explain the advantages of each option before you make a decision about how to move forward.
Whereas a dental implant replaces the root of a lost tooth, its restoration replaces the visible portion of the tooth. Restorations come in several different forms, from single crowns to multi-unit bridges to dentures that replace an entire dental arch. Of course, the different types of restorations come with different price tags.
It is becoming more and more common for dental insurance to cover dental implants. However, some policies still do not. As an insurance-friendly practice, we will help you determine how your coverage applies to your treatment. We can also file claims on your behalf and help you find answers to your insurance questions. If your policy does not provide any help with the implants themselves, it might reduce your out-of-pocket costs for preliminary treatment or your final restoration.
In addition to helping you take advantage of your insurance, we offer a few provisions that may assist you in managing the cost of dental implants in Branford:
If, during your tooth replacement consultation, we find that your mouth is not yet ready to support dental implants in Branford, we may be able to help it become so. Our advanced dental implant procedures, which include bone grafting and sinus lifts, are designed to fortify your jawbone and equip it to serve as a long-lasting support for your new teeth. Although these treatments may extend your treatment timeline, the benefits they offer make them well worth it.
Your natural teeth are anchored in a part of your jawbone called the alveolar ridge. The tooth roots stimulate the bone and help it to maintain its shape, strength, and density. Unfortunately, when natural teeth go missing, the bone begins to be resorbed (the body recycles its raw material for other purposes). This process can drastically affect the ability of the alveolar ridge to support dental implants.
If your jawbone has suffered a degree of deterioration since your natural teeth were extracted, you may need a bone graft. There are many different types of bone grafts, but the basic idea of this dental implant procedure in Branford is always the same. We add bone material (either from elsewhere in your body or from a donor) to your jawbone. As you heal from the surgery, your jawbone and the graft should integrate with each other.
Some patients receive a bone graft and a dental implant at the same time. More often, though, the bone graft takes place first. A few months later, after an adequate healing period, it may be possible to place dental implants.
Did you know that the roots of some of your upper teeth are very close to your sinus cavity? Just like in the lower jaw, the tooth roots help the bone to stay strong and whole. However, when the upper teeth go missing, the bone may shrink to the point where placing a dental implant runs the risk of puncturing the sinus membrane. This may also be the case for individuals who have naturally large sinuses. A sinus lift in Branford can often resolve problems with the density and volume of the upper jaw.
A sinus lift is a particular type of bone grafting in Branford. First, we access the sinus through the upper jaw. Then, we gently push the sinus upward and insert bone beneath it. It usually takes 4 – 9 months for patients to heal completely from this type of procedure. After that, it may be possible to place dental implants.
We perform both regular bone grafting and sinus lifts with patient comfort as a top priority. We use anesthesia, and often sedation, to make the process as easy as possible. If you require either of these procedures, you can rest assured that the experts in our practice will do everything in our power to help you enjoy a successful outcome.
Dental implants are successful in more than 95% of cases, and they feature remarkable longevity. In fact, it is common for them to fair well throughout a patient’s lifetime. However, it is still vital that you know what signs may indicate a possible failed dental implant. If you are ever concerned that something is off with your new teeth, contact us right away. We will examine your mouth, assess the problem, and design a treatment plan with the goal of preserving your smile so you can continue enjoying your dental implants.
After your dental implant placement surgery, you will need to go through a recovery period. Do not worry — as long as you follow some basic post-op instructions, it is likely that your healing process will go smoothly. What are some specific things you should do to facilitate an easy recovery? Continue reading below to find out.
After your surgery, blood clots will start to form at your incision sites. These are an important part of your body’s healing process, so you should take steps to protect them. For example, you should:
In the days following your surgery, you might experience:
If you experience any severe or unusual side effects, call our team right away for assistance.
At first, you should eat a no-chew diet, which can include items like applesauce, brothy soups, pudding, and even ice cream. When you feel up to it, you can progress to foods that require minimal chewing, such as eggs, meatloaf, and soft breads. Alcohol should be avoided for as long as you are taking pain medication (or as long as your dentist recommends). Eventually, you will be able to resume a normal diet. However, you should continue to be cautious around your implant sites.
The day after your surgery, you can resume brushing and flossing your natural teeth. However, it is important to be very careful around your implant sites so you do not disturb your blood clots. If you have a prescription mouthwash, use it as directed. If you use an over-the-counter mouthwash, do not choose a product that contains alcohol. Regularly rinsing with warm salt water can be helpful for calming inflammation.
After your dental implants have had a chance to integrate with your jawbone, you will receive a beautiful crown, bridge, or denture to go on top of them. Your gums might be a bit tender at first, but no real downtime is necessary. No bleeding or significant swelling should occur. You can start to enjoy your new smile right away!
Dental implants are an amazing treatment that has the potential to provide you with years of healthy, strong, and confident smiles. However, they will only live up to that potential if you take good care of them. Below, you will find some practical tips for reducing your risk of dental implant failure.
If bacteria are allowed to multiply unchecked in your mouth, they can cause a dangerous infection that threatens your dental implants. The best way to battle those bacteria is via thorough oral hygiene. You should:
Dental implants can allow you to eat anything you want. However, it is still important to make wise choices. A balanced, healthy diet carries minimal risk of harm to your dental implants and supports the overall health of your mouth and body. You should:
A few bad habits that might damage your dental implants include:
If you play sports, a mouthguard can reduce the risk of harm both to your dental implants and your mouth. Custom mouthguards from a dentist are often more effective and comfortable than those that are available over the counter.
If you grind your teeth at night, you may benefit from a different type of mouthguard — one that is specifically designed to place a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Again, a custom nightguard from a dentist is best.
Even if you no longer have any natural teeth, it is still important to visit us for a checkup every six months. At these appointments, we can inspect your dental implants and oral tissues for signs of developing problems. If we notice any causes for concern, we can provide proper treatment before the situation becomes severe. We can also perform thorough cleanings that reduce the risk of dangerous infections.
The team at New Haven Dental Group in Branford hopes you visit us soon for a dental implant consultation. But we understand if you would like to learn more about this remarkable treatment before you commit to anything. That is why we have put together the following brief list of FAQs, along with their answers. If you do not see the information you were specifically hoping for, please reach out to us directly. We are ready to assist you!
Research consistently shows that even 10 years after placement, more than 90% of dental implants continue to thrive. In fact, dental implants in Branford have the potential to last a lifetime if they receive proper care. You simply have to maintain good oral hygiene, attend regular checkups with your dentist, and manage your overall health to a reasonable extent.
The most common cause of dental implant failure is an infection known as peri-implantitis. It occurs when bacteria infiltrate the tissue around an implant. Eventually, the damage to the tissue can become so severe that the implant no longer has a strong base of support. Poor oral hygiene is usually to blame for peri-implantitis, but other factors can also contribute. Additional possible causes of dental implant failure include failed osseointegration, certain medical problems, and physical trauma.
Dental implants are dark in color, but they usually disappear once they are placed beneath the gumline. Their restorations are designed to look as natural as possible. Their size, shape, and color are all custom designed to complement each patient’s unique oral structures and facial characteristics. It is unlikely that onlookers will be able to tell that you have had some dental work done.
Dental implants are strong enough to stand up to virtually any food. However, just like some foods are better for your natural teeth than others, there are some things that you should be cautious about eating when you have implants. For example, overindulging in sugary, sticky, and hard foods might damage your restorations and increase your risk of gum disease. Eating a sensible, balanced diet is the best way to protect your dental implants.
As your implant dentist in Branford, our team wants to help you afford your treatment. That is why we offer several provisions to make their cost easier to manage. For example, most patients qualify for low-interest financing through CareCredit. We also have a dental discount plan that may help. If, after we explore all of your payment options and you determine that implants are not within your financial reach, we may recommend a lower-priced treatments.
When you first receive your dental implants, you may experience some soreness and other symptoms during your recovery period. After you get your restorations, a bit of tenderness and excess saliva production are normal. Following your adjustment period, however, you might forget that your dental implants in Branford are there because they will feel so natural. They are designed to look, feel, and function as similarly to their natural counterparts as possible.
The answer to this question varies from patient to patient. Sometimes, it is possible to place a dental implant immediately after an extraction — during the same appointment, in fact. In other cases, a healing period of a few months is necessary. This allows the bone time to recover. Be sure not to wait too long after your extractions to ask about dental implants; delays in treatment could increase the chances that you will need a bone graft.
To make your treatment experience as streamlined as possible, talk to your dentist about your tooth replacement options even before your extractions. They will plan your future procedures accordingly.
Some patients require a bone graft before getting dental implants, but not all. To determine if you need one, your implant dentist in Branford will use advanced imaging equipment to understand the size and structure of your jawbone. If it looks like the bone is strong enough and large enough to support dental implants, you can skip the bone graft stage of treatment.
You are more likely to require a bone graft if it has been a few years since you lost your natural teeth, since the jawbone starts to deteriorate after the loss of natural teeth.
Eligibility for dental implants is determined on a case by case basis. Smoking will not automatically disqualify you from getting them. However, you should be aware of the risks that your habit presents. It can slow down the healing time after implant placement surgery and greatly increase the risk of dental implant failure. We generally advise patients to stop smoking at least a few weeks before their surgery, and continue to abstain for as long as possible afterward (2 – 3 months minimum). Of course, it would be better to quit smoking altogether.
For the vast majority of patients, dental implants are safe when they are placed by a qualified team of professionals. During your consultation, we will carefully consider any risk factors you may have (such as medical conditions that affect your bones or the ability to heal after surgery) and let you know about possible complications, even if the chances of them occurring are slight.
If you are concerned about a possible allergic reaction to the implants, there is probably no reason to be. They are made out of a titanium alloy, and allergies to titanium are extremely rare.
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