What is a Dental Implant?

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A dental implant is a tiny titanium cylinder that replaces the function of a tooth root. Dental implants offer solutions for tooth replacement that look and feel like natural teeth. Dr. Wilson has completed extensive training in dental implants.

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What are the Advantages?

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Dental implant restorations have advantages over other tooth replacement procedures, such as a traditional dental bridge, which requires drilling on adjacent teeth to create support for the replacement tooth. An implant is placed in the site of a missing tooth and restored with a dental crown to close a space, without disturbing other teeth.

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A Long-Term Solution

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A dental implant is a fixed prosthesis; therefore, multiple dental implants may be preferred over a removable dental appliance for improved bite stability and confidence. Dental implants may also be used to secure a complete denture and make a life-changing difference for denture wearers.

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What Are My Dental Implant Treatment Options?

If you're considering dental implants in Bellevue, it's important to understand the different treatment options available to you. Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, and they offer a variety of options to suit your specific needs.

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One common treatment option is a single tooth implant. This involves placing a titanium implant into the jawbone to replace a single missing tooth. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root, providing a stable foundation for a custom-made dental crown. This option is ideal for individuals who have lost a single tooth due to injury, decay, or other dental issues.

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Another option is implant-supported bridges. This treatment is great for individuals who have multiple missing teeth in a row. Instead of placing individual implants for each missing tooth, the dentist can use two or more implants to support a bridge that spans the gap. Implant-supported bridges provide a secure and natural-looking solution for restoring your smile.

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For individuals who are missing all of their teeth, implant-supported dentures may be the best option. This treatment involves placing multiple implants throughout the jawbone to support a full arch of dentures. Implant-supported dentures offer superior stability and comfort compared to traditional removable dentures. They allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about your dentures slipping or falling out.

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Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a versatile and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth, but not everyone is a good candidate for this treatment. To determine if you're a suitable candidate for dental implants, several factors will be taken into consideration during your consultation.

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One of the most important factors is the health of your jawbone. Dental implants require a strong and healthy jawbone to provide a stable foundation. If you have experienced significant bone loss in your jaw, you may require a bone grafting procedure to augment the bone density before implant placement.

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Additionally, your overall oral health plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility for dental implants. If you have gum disease or other dental issues, these will need to be addressed before proceeding with implant placement. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups is essential to ensure the success and longevity of your dental implants.

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Other factors that may affect your candidacy for dental implants include your overall health, lifestyle habits (such as smoking), and any existing medical conditions. During your consultation, Dr. Wilson will thoroughly evaluate your oral and general health to determine if dental implants are the right option for you.

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Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

The coverage for dental implants by insurance varies depending on your specific insurance plan. While some insurance plans may provide coverage for dental implants, others may consider them as elective or cosmetic procedures and not cover the cost.

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It's important to review your insurance plan's coverage details or consult with your insurance provider to determine if dental implants are covered. In some cases, insurance may cover a portion of the implant treatment, such as the implant itself or the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) that attaches to the implant.

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At Warner Parks Family Dental, our Bellevue dentist understands that navigating insurance coverage can be confusing and overwhelming. Our knowledgeable team can help you understand your insurance benefits and work with you to maximize your coverage for dental implants. We also offer flexible financing options to make dental implants more affordable and accessible for our patients.