What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of tooth replacement that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are made of titanium, which is a strong and durable metal that is compatible with the human body.

Dental implants work by replacing the root of a missing tooth. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone. Once the implant is in place, a crown or bridge can be attached to it to replace the missing tooth or teeth.

Why Do I Need Dental Implants?
There are many reasons why you might need dental implants. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Missing teeth: If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants can help you to improve your appearance, your ability to chew, and your overall oral health.
• Anchorage for full or partial dentures to help hold your prosthesis in place securely for chewing, speaking and smiling.

Are Dental Implants Just Cosmetic?
No, dental implants are not just cosmetic. They serve a number of important functions, including:

• Improved appearance: Dental implants can help to improve your appearance by replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile.
• Improved chewing ability: Dental implants can help to improve your chewing ability by providing a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
• Improved oral health: Dental implants can help to improve your oral health by preventing bone loss and gum disease. When you have your full complement of teeth, your whole body is able to function at its most optimum level.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants that you need and the type of treatment that you choose. However, dental implants are generally more expensive than other types of tooth replacement, such as dentures or bridges.

Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance?
The cost of dental implants is not typically covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost. We will provide you with some information during your exam and help you contact your insurance company to find out if your plan covers dental implants.

Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with them. These risks include:

• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the implant site. However, this risk can be minimized by following our post-procedure instructions carefully.
• Pain: There may be some pain at the implant site after surgery. However, this pain is usually mild and can be managed with medication.
• Allergic reaction: There is a very small risk of an allergic reaction to the titanium implant. However, this risk is very rare.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
There are many benefits to having dental implants, including:

• A natural-looking smile: Dental implants can be used to create a natural-looking smile that is indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
• Improved chewing ability: Dental implants can help to improve your chewing ability by providing a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
• Improved oral health: Dental implants can help to improve your oral health by preventing bone loss and gum disease.
• Long-lasting results: Dental implants can last for many years with proper care.

If you are considering dental implants, I encourage you to call 919-542-2712 or make an appointment with me (Dr. Laura Collatz) in my Pittsboro, NC office. We will discuss the benefits and risks of this treatment. Dental implants can be a great option for people who are missing teeth and want to improve their smile, their chewing ability, and their overall oral health.