Dental Implant Surgery

Dental Implant Surgery – Advantages, Risks, and Insurance Questions

Author: PV Smiles Reem Kidess | Posted on with comments

Phoenix, AZ dental helper Dental implant surgery is an out-patient procedure performed by your specially trained dentist. Many patients feel apprehensive about dental implant surgery, but here are a few of the most common questions we get asked:

Advantages of Dental Implant Surgery:

  • Improved Chewing Ability: Dental implants function just like natural teeth, restoring your ability to chew effectively. This ensures proper food breakdown, promotes better digestion, and reduces strain on remaining teeth.
  • Enhanced Appearance: Dental implants mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, restoring a beautiful and natural-looking smile. This can significantly boost your confidence in social and professional settings.
  • Durability and Longevity: Dental implants are known for their exceptional durability, lasting for decades with proper care. They offer a long-term solution compared to dentures or bridges that might require replacement over time.
  • Improved Speech: Missing teeth can disrupt speech patterns. Dental implants fill the gaps, providing the necessary structure for proper tongue placement and airflow, leading to clearer speech.
  • Prevents Bone Loss: When teeth are missing, the jawbone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants act like tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing bone loss.
  • Improved Oral Health: Dental implants allow for easier cleaning in the implant area, promoting better oral health and potentially reducing the risk of gum disease.
  • Increased Confidence: The ability to chew effectively, speak clearly, and smile without hesitation can significantly boost your confidence in social and professional settings.

Risks and Considerations of Dental Implant Surgery:

  • Surgical Procedure: Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, carrying potential risks associated with any surgery, such as infection, bleeding, or swelling.
  • Discomfort and Recovery Time: While generally well-tolerated, there might be some discomfort and swelling after surgery. Recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure.
  • Potential for Implant Failure: While rare, dental implants can fail in some cases. Factors like underlying health conditions, smoking, or improper care can contribute to implant failure.
  • Cost: Dental implants are typically more expensive than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges.

Dental Implant Surgery FAQs


Why should I consider dental implants? Dental implants are permanent installments that look, feel, and function like real teeth and are easy to maintain. They are strong and last significantly longer than traditional bridges or dentures.

Is dental implant surgery painful? – They shouldn’t be if they are done correctly. Your dentist will use anesthesia so you won’t feel a thing. If you’re apprehensive, sedation dentistry can help you get the care you need.

Dental implant risks – are there any? Dental implant risks are minimal, and similar to the risks of routine dental work. Risks include reaction to anesthesia, infection, or the possibility that the implant doesn’t fuse to the bone the first time. Extremely rarely, an allergic reaction to the titanium can occur.

Does insurance cover dental implants? Most dental insurances currently do not cover dental implants because there are cheaper alternatives, however, as they become a more common procedure, some actually might cover a portion. It’s worth checking with your dental insurance policy.

My insurance doesn’t cover dental implants; what are my options? Bridges are usually covered but are less superior to dental implants. Dental implants may cost more up front, but they will last you longer. This makes dental implants cheaper over time. Many dental offices can offer financing solutions through credit or a payment plan. Ask your dentist about a payment plan.

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