Implant Dentist in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK

The purpose of dental implants is to replace lost or damaged teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real teeth. When dentures or bridgework do not fit well and when a lack of natural teeth roots does not allow constructing denture or bridgework tooth replacements, dental implant surgery can provide a welcome alternative.

Your jawbone’s condition and the type of implant influence how dental implant surgery is performed. Several procedures may be involved in dental implant surgery. For implants to provide solid support for your new teeth, the surrounding bone must heal tightly around the implant. It can take many months for this bone to heal because it requires time.

If your care team determines that you need an oral surgeon, the first phase will take place in your dental office. Oral surgeons can also administer IV sedation if necessary. A local anesthetic is applied to your mouth during the first phase of the procedure. An incision will be made in your gum to expose the bone after the drug takes effect. A drill is used to create a space in the bone for the implant screw after the incision has been made. Keep an eye on the drill during the procedure, as it is very quiet and shouldn’t startle or scare you. Depending on the size of the incision, your incision may receive a stitch or two after the implant is placed. Following that, you have to wait for osseointegration to ensure the implant is firmly attached to the bone.

The second phase of the procedure begins after the wound has healed. You will be required to make another incision during this appointment to re-expose the implant. The abutment will be placed on the implant and an impression will be taken so that the crown can be fitted. Depending on the dentist’s preferences and the case, crowns are created in several appointments.

The final step is receiving your new crown(s). Before the final fitting, the dentist may perform a trial procedure to ensure that everything fits correctly.

As the roots of your missing teeth, dental implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone. Unlike fixed bridgework and dentures, implants will not slip, make noise, or damage your jawbone because titanium fuses with it. Unlike your teeth, the materials supporting regular bridgework cannot decay.

In addition to giving patients a natural-looking, natural-feeling smile, dental implants also function like natural teeth. To give your tooth restoration the durability of your natural teeth, dental implants include a surgically implanted post that fuses with your jawbone. Essentially, the post functions as the root of your tooth, so when it is topped with a crown, it blends in seamlessly with your smile while still functioning as a natural tooth. To maintain the longevity of your oral appliance, you may need to deal with dietary restrictions if you have other dental restorations like dental bridges. The soft tissue in your mouth protects all of the pieces of your restoration in the case of dental implants. As with dental bridges, adjacent teeth do not have to be altered.

Whether or not your insurance will pay for dental implants will vary depending on each individual’s unique circumstances. Some insurance companies consider dental implants to be cosmetic procedures and as such do not afford coverage. Other plans may cover some or all of the costs of dental implants. Talk to the Dentistry of Oxnard and your insurance company about what coverage may be available and potential payment plans.

Dental implants are available at Four Corners Dental Group. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK. We serve patients from Anchorage AK, Wasilla AK, Knik-Fairview AK, Meadow Lakes AK, Campbell AK, Spenard AK, and surrounding areas.