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Dental Implants FAQ

Diagram of dental implants from Karl Zeren DDS, Timonium, MDLosing teeth is a big deal. When you lose your teeth, your entire life is affected. It impacts the quality of your smile, your abilities to eat and speak properly, and even the shape of your jaw and face. Replacing your missing teeth is essential for restoring your smile, the functions of your mouth, and your quality of life. At Karl Zeren DDS, we can replace your missing teeth with dental implants.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a modern treatment for tooth loss. This treatment involves the surgical placement of small titanium posts into your jawbone. The posts are there to provide support for your replacement teeth. As you heal from surgery, your bone fuses to the posts in a natural process called osseointegration. This process turns the posts into strong, stable roots that hold your new teeth firmly in place. Implants are a versatile treatment that can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth.  

How Long is the Treatment Process?

The exact length of treatment varies from patient to patient. There are a few factors that determine just how long your treatment will take. The surgical procedure itself typically only takes about half an hour to complete. After surgery, the recovery period can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. The length of your recovery depends on things such as how many implants are being placed and the condition of your jawbone. If you need a bone graft before implant placement, this will also impact your overall treatment time.  

Is Getting Implants Painful?

Dental implant surgery is performed under a local anesthetic. This ensures that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. We can also provide you with sedation, which will help you to relax and feel more comfortable. After your surgical procedure is complete, some pain and swelling are to be expected.

In many cases, over the counter pain relievers can help you to deal with the discomfort. We may also provide you with a prescription for stronger medication. Take any medications only as directed.  

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Implants are unlike any traditional tooth replacement treatment. Instead of sitting above your gums, the posts are implanted directly into your jawbone. The posts function like the roots of your natural teeth, providing the stimulation your jawbone needs to remain strong and healthy. Because of this, dental implants are considered to be a long-term, even permanent, solution to tooth loss. While the ceramic crowns may wear out or break, the posts remain in your jaw. We can easily replace broken or worn crowns without having to replace your entire restoration.

How Much Do Implants Cost?

The exact cost of dental implants varies from person to person and is based on many factors. These factors include how many teeth are being replaced, how many implant posts are being placed, and if you need to have a bone graft performed first. You may also be able to receive some insurance coverage for dental implants. In the past, implants were seen only as a cosmetic procedure and were therefore not covered by dental insurance. Today, however, more and more companies are providing at least some coverage. To find out if your insurance provider offers coverage, review your plan or contact your insurance provider directly. 

Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

Dental implants can meet a variety of needs, but it is still important that you have a consultation to determine your candidacy. During this exam, we look over your mouth to assess your oral health, go over your medical history, and take X-rays to assess the condition of your jawbone. We will also go over your lifestyle habits, such as alcohol and tobacco use. If you are determined to be a good candidate, you are then scheduled for your surgery.

Longevity of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a modern solution for replacing missing teeth, providing a unique alternative to bridges and dentures. This incredible treatment involves the surgical implantation of small titanium posts into your jawbone. Your bone fuses to these posts as you heal, a natural process called osseointegration. Osseointegration stabilizes the posts in your jaw so that they can hold your replacement teeth securely in place. At Karl Zeren DDS we offer dental implant solutions to meet a variety of needs. While implants are becoming more common, there are still many questions about them, including how long they last.

 Dental implants improve your smile and restore your abilities to eat and speak. They even help to stop and prevent bone loss in your jaw, keeping the bone strong and healthy. Call Karl Zeren DDS at (410) 316-6141 today for more information and to find out if dental implants are right for you. 

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Humphrey M.

Office Location

9515 Deereco Rd. Suite 308
Timonium, MD 21093

Opening Hours

Mon, Tue, Thr: 8am–5:00 pm
Fri: Complex surgical cases
