Dental Implants in Hendersonville

The cost of dental implants is a big consideration for many patients, and understanding insurance coverage can be complex. Generally, dental implants are considered a cosmetic procedure, which means they might not be fully covered by insurance. However, this is changing as the benefits of implants become more widely recognized.

Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the implant cost, particularly if the procedure is deemed medically necessary. This might include coverage for the crown, bridge, or denture that is placed on top of the implant. It's essential to review your specific insurance policy and speak with your provider to understand what is covered.

Additionally, some medical insurance plans may cover part of the procedure if there are underlying health issues that necessitate dental implants. Financing options and payment plans are often available through dental practices, making the investment in dental implants more manageable. Always consult with your dental provider to explore all available options and ensure you receive the care you need.

The ability to eat normally after receiving dental implants is a significant concern for many patients. While the initial healing period requires some dietary adjustments, most patients find they can return to their regular eating habits relatively quickly.

Immediately after the procedure, it's important to stick to a soft-food diet to avoid disturbing the implant site. Foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are excellent choices during this period. As your mouth begins to heal, you can gradually introduce more solid foods. Typically, patients can start incorporating these foods after about a week, but it's essential to avoid anything too hard or crunchy that could interfere with the healing process.

Complete healing and osseointegration (the process where the implant fuses with the jawbone) can take several months. Your dentist will guide you on when it's safe to resume eating tougher foods. Listening to your body and taking cues from any discomfort will help you determine when you're ready to return to a normal diet.

One of the most common concerns for patients considering dental implants is the potential for pain. The good news is that the procedure is typically less painful than anticipated. Thanks to modern dentistry techniques and effective anesthesia, most patients report that getting dental implants is less painful than having a tooth extracted.

During the procedure, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring that you do not feel pain during the surgery. You might experience some discomfort or soreness in the days following the procedure, similar to what you might feel after other dental surgeries. This discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

It's important to follow your dentist's post-operative care instructions closely to minimize discomfort and ensure a smooth healing process. Swelling and minor bleeding are normal and should subside within a few days. If you experience severe pain or swelling that worsens, it's crucial to contact your dental professional as it may indicate complications.

Dental implants have revolutionized the way we approach tooth replacement, offering a durable and natural-looking solution for those missing one or more teeth. Understanding the types of dental implants available can help you make an informed decision about your dental health. Primarily, there are three types of dental implants: endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants.

Endosteal implants are the most common type. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and are typically made of titanium. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post individually or grouped on a bridge or denture.

Subperiosteal implants, on the other hand, are used for patients who may not have enough healthy jawbone and cannot or do not want to undergo a bone augmentation procedure. These implants sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum. A metal frame is fitted onto the jawbone, and as the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts attached to the frame protrude through the gums, where artificial teeth are mounted.

Zygomatic implants are the least common and are used in cases where the patient does not have enough jawbone for endosteal implants. Instead of being anchored in the jawbone, these implants are placed in the cheekbone, also known as the zygomatic bone. This type of implant is more complex and is generally reserved for specific cases.

The cost of implants varies from person to person based on their needs and other factors such as insurance coverage and financing options available. Dr. Truman will give you an estimated cost for your treatment plan during your initial consultation visit so that you can make an informed decision about moving forward with your smile restoration journey.

Implant posts are a permanent solution, but dental crowns and abutments may need replacing every ten years because they can wear down over time.

The best way to know if you're a good candidate for a dental implant is to sit down with Dr. Truman, take a few X-rays, and do an exam. However, a dental implant could work for you if you have sufficient bone in your jaw, generally have good overall health, and have healthy gums without periodontal disease.