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Dental Implants — Grafton, ND

Restore Your Smile and Regain Your Confidence

Woman smiling after receiving dental implants in Grafton

Dental implants in Grafton are one of the most talked-about tooth replacement options that modern dentistry has to offer. These small titanium posts, which an oral surgeon places within a patient’s jawbone, create the foundation for a strong, highly functional smile that lasts for many years. We’re proud to help people in our area to take advantage of this remarkable and versatile restorative treatment. To discover whether implants are an appropriate solution for your tooth loss, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Why Choose Kern Family Dentistry for Dental Implants?

What Are Dental Implants?

Diagram showing how a dental implant works in Grafton

Dental implants are considered to be the gold standard of tooth replacement today because of their ability to replace every portion of the tooth, including the root that sits underneath the gum tissue and inside of the jawbone. This is done with a titanium post, which integrates with bone tissue to create a sturdy and reliable replacement tooth root. Attached to it is a dedicated restoration, which could either be a crown, bridge or denture depending on how many teeth you are missing. Because of their versatility, longevity, esthetics, and function, dental implants remain the most popular tooth replacement recommendation from dentists and oral surgeons alike.

The 4-Step Dental Implant Process

Dentist pointing to a dental implant model

Dental implants provide unique benefits that you can’t get with other tooth replacement options. This is because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for additional stability. That being said, dental implants require a multi-step process. Everyone’s treatment looks a little bit different, but everyone can expect these four main steps.

Initial Dental Implant Consultation

Man meeting a receptionist

Your dental implant journey begins with a consultation at our practice. This way, we can examine your smile to determine whether dental implants are the right tooth replacement option for you. Some patients need preliminary treatments before they can get dental implants, so we can discuss those at this time and help you get them scheduled if necessary. Once your jaw and gums are in healthy shape, we can move forward with your treatment plan.

Dental Implant Surgery

Dentists performing surgery

Getting dental implants requires a surgical procedure. We refer our patients to a local specialist for dental implant placement surgery to ensure that they get the best possible quality of care. The procedure will begin with numbing the area with a local anesthetic. Then, an incision is made in the gum tissue and the implant is placed at a precise angle in the jaw. The gums are closed, and a protective cap is placed over the post to keep it safe as it heals over the following months.

Dental Implant Osseointegration & Abutment

Digital illustration of a dental implant

Over the next three to six months, your implants will be healing and fusing to the jawbone. This process is called “osseointegration.” Then, you will need to undergo another minor procedure where the abutments are placed onto your implant posts. Impressions are taken so your restoration can be customized just for you.

Delivery of Dental Implant Restorations

Man smiling in the dental chair

Your restoration will be designed at the dental lab. When they are ready, you will return to our practice. We will use your dental implants to secure the customized restoration to your jaw. If everything looks and feels as it should, you will be sent on your way to show off your new and improved smile!

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Benefits of Dental Implants

Woman throwing an apple into the air

There's a good reason why dental implants are considered the gold standard when it comes to tooth replacement. Not only can they restore the aesthetics of your smile, but they have numerous other benefits that can support your quality of life. If you’re curious how dental implants from Kern Family Dentistry can help you live and smile better, read more below. Then, call us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kern.

Day-to-Day Benefits

Patient in Grafton with dental implants smiling with coworkers

You use your teeth every day to eat, speak, and socialize with others. Missing teeth can get in the way of these activities, but dental implants are the perfect way to restore your smile and get back to what’s important. Here are some of the great day-to-day benefits you can expect:

  • Improved Oral Hygiene: Missing teeth create traps for bacterial plaque to thrive and can make it harder to clean your teeth. Dental implants fill these gaps and make your oral hygiene routine easier.
  • Better Speech: Speaking is a complex process, and a lost tooth can throw everything off. By repairing your smile with dental implants, you also restore your tongue placement and air control.
  • Restored Confidence: Tooth loss can have a negative impact on your appearance, affecting your self-esteem and your ability to socialize. With dental implants, you’ll never have to hide your smile or stifle your laugh again.

Health Benefits

Patient in Grafton eating healthy food with dental implants

Beyond the things you notice every day, dental implants can also provide many health benefits that provide a better quality of life behind the scenes. These include:

  • Improved Jawbone Support: Dental implants replace the whole tooth from root to crown. This stops your jawbone from deteriorating due to missing teeth.
  • Enhanced Oral Health: Over time, teeth adjacent to tooth gaps will shift slightly to try to pick up the slack of chewing. This can create bite issues and lead to discomfort, tooth wear, and dental damage. Dental implants keep your teeth from shifting, providing comfort and stability to your bite.
  • Better Digestion: When you can’t chew your food properly, it can affect digestion and cause reflux and stomach issues. Dental implants restore over 70 percent of your bite force, preserving your digestive tract.

Long-Term Benefits

Older patient in Grafton with dental implants talking with their partner

With an average success rate of over 95 percent, dental implants are one of the longest-lasting treatments in dentistry. Here’s what you can look forward to over time:

  • Improved Facial Aesthetics: Tooth loss causes bone deterioration in your jaw and facial structure. Over time, this can lead to a sunken, hollow look that ages you beyond your years. Dental implants keep this from happening, providing support to your facial features for a more youthful appearance.
  • Return on Investment: Other tooth replacement options like dentures and bridges are great. However, they wear out much faster than dental implants, costing you money for replacements and adjustments. With proper care and maintenance, your implants will last a lifetime, providing a huge return on your investment.
  • Lower Stress: With all the other benefits combined, you’ll enjoy a better quality of life with dental implants. Lower stress means better health and peace of mind knowing that your smile is secure for the long road ahead.

Who Dental Implants Can Help

Woman learning benefits of dental implants in Grafton with dentist

Dental implants are a versatile treatment. Your dentist in Grafton can use them to replace one tooth, a few teeth, or an entire arch of teeth.

Missing One Tooth

For patients who are missing just one tooth, a single implant topped by a single crown may be the ideal treatment.

Missing Multiple Teeth

If you are missing several teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge may work for you. This type of restoration is held by two implants, each of which has its own crown. Pontics (artificial teeth) are suspended between the crowns.

Missing All Teeth

An implant-supported denture may be right for you if you are missing all or most of your teeth. Your oral surgeon will strategically place a number of implants throughout your mouth in order to provide the best base of support for your new smile. Then, we’ll replace your teeth with either a fixed or removable prosthesis.

Learn More About Implant Dentures

Understanding the Cost of Dental Implants

Patient shaking hands with a dentist in Grafton

When it comes to tooth replacement, there are few options quite like dental implants. Those who are missing either one tooth or several can benefit from their placement, although the cost can be pretty high compared to other tooth replacement solutions. If you’re looking for a sensible way to cut down costs, keep reading this page on how you can make implants affordable. You can also contact our office directly to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kern!

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implant resting next to money and loose teeth

Every individual’s needs are different when it comes to complex treatments like dental implants. For one, some may need preparatory treatments like bone grafts or sinus lifts before they can begin treatment. If you intend on replacing multiple teeth, it will cost more compared to someone only replacing one tooth. During your implant consultation, we’ll go over everything necessary to determine the exact cost of your treatment, including:

  • The number of teeth you’re replacing (i.e. one tooth, multiple teeth or an entire arch)
  • Which teeth you need to replace (teeth that are visible in your smile are more difficult to replace compared to molars)
  • Your current allergies (some patients may not be able to receive titanium implants and need an alternative material)
  • Preparatory treatments to ensure your jawbone is thick enough to receive implants

Regardless of the total cost, dental implants are considered to be a long-term investment that you can rely on for decades. Not only are you doing your oral health a favor, but your overall health as well since eating a balanced diet will become much easier.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Dentist explaining cost of dental implants in Grafton to patient

Most dental insurance companies don’t cover the cost of dental implants because they are still seen as a cosmetic treatment. However, our office is more than happy to look over your benefits and confirm if you can receive partial coverage for certain aspects of your treatment. If so, we’ll work with you to maximize those savings prior to implant placement.

Our office is in-network with many of the major dental care providers. To examine the list in more detail, click here.

How Patient Financing Can Help

Couple shaking hands with a dental employee

Our office is more than happy to help patients in need of other financing options. Since dental implants are far more extensive than your typical cleaning or checkup, one of our knowledgeable team members will evaluate your coverage and provide accurate estimates of potential out-of-pocket costs.

When you have an expert to talk about dental implants with, you’ll quickly learn that the benefits far outweigh the costs. When you partner with Dr. Kern and his team, the cost of dental implants in Grafton is something anyone can manage. Request an appointment with our office to get started planning your payment for dental implants!

Maintaining & Caring for Your Dental Implants

Woman smiling with dental implants in Grafton

Dental implants can last for more than three decades or even the rest of your life. However, it’s essential that you take all of the proper steps to care for them. If you aren’t taking the time to protect your dental implants from becoming damaged, they could end up failing and needing to be replaced with a new implant or another tooth replacement option. The good news is that with a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of your implants for many years down the road.

Make Oral Hygiene a Priority

Man brushing dental implants in Grafton

Dental implants can’t get cavities themselves, but you still need to practice excellent oral hygiene. In addition to keeping your surrounding teeth in good shape, sticking to a great oral hygiene routine can prevent other dental problems, like gum disease, that can cause your implants to fail. Remember to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash every day.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Chicken breast with vegetables

One of the many benefits of dental implants is that you won’t need to deal with any eating restrictions. You can easily enjoy a nutritious meal without struggling to chew. Just remember that having too many items that are hard, sticky, or sugary can be problematic. Eat foods that have plenty of calcium and vitamin C to keep your jawbone and gums in good shape.

Break Bad Habits

Man crushing cigarettes

Bad habits can cause your dental implants to fail over time. Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products immediately after your procedure, as they can slow down healing and increase your risk of developing an infection. Don’t use your teeth as tools either, as you could accidentally end up damaging your dental implant or a surrounding tooth. Instead, find scissors, a bottle opener, or another tool that can help you complete your task safely.

Protect Your Dental Implants

Rugby player wearing mouthguard

As strong as your dental implants are, they aren’t indestructible. You should always wear a mouthguard to protect your dental implants and natural teeth when participating in sports. If you grind your teeth at night, ask about a nightguard to protect your implants from additional wear and tear.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Man at dentist in Grafton

You should attend regular cleanings and checkups every six months. This way, we can monitor your dental implants and spot any issues as early as possible. By catching potential problems now, you can prevent them from becoming more serious and leading to additional consequences, like a dental implant failure.

Dental Implant FAQs

What can cause dental implants to fail?

With a success rate of over 95%, dental implant failure is pretty rare. When it does happen, it’s usually due to one of two things: peri-implantitis or failed osseointegration. The good news is that there are several steps we can take to prevent either from happening, starting with assessing the strength of your jawbone during the initial consultation.

Am I too old to get dental implants?

Sometimes, patients in their 80s and 90s assume that restoring a complete, confident smile with dental implants in Grafton isn’t possible. However, candidacy is determined by factors like the health of your gums and your willingness to break harmful habits, not your age. In other words, there’s no such thing as being “too old” for this state-of-the-art solution.

Will people be able to tell that I have dental implants?

Dental implants are extremely lifelike. That’s one of the reasons they are so popular! Since they are anchored to your jawbone, they won’t slip or slide unexpectedly. Plus, we custom-make each replacement tooth to ensure it suits your face shape, dental needs, and smile goals. As a result, you’ll be able to smile with complete confidence.

Do dental implants decay?

No, dental implants do not decay. However, your natural teeth still can. Not only that, but a form of gum disease known as “peri-implantitis” can develop if you don’t take good care of your smile. So, you need to continue to prioritize good habits (i.e., brushing twice a day, limiting your intake of added sugar, scheduling a dental cleaning twice a year).

How can I make dental implants more affordable?

Do you have dental insurance? If so, your provider may cover a portion of the cost of any preliminary treatments that are needed and the restoration that’s secured on top of your dental implant. That’s why we encourage our patients to read through the fine print on their plan! If you need any assistance understanding your coverage, you’re more than welcome to reach out to us since we work with Delta Dental, MetLife, United Concordia, and several others.

If you don’t have dental insurance at the moment, let us know! We’d be happy to discuss financing options to help make the process of restoring your complete and confident smile more affordable.

Is there anything I can’t eat with dental implants?

The short answer is “yes.” We advise against eating extremely crunchy and sticky foods, especially sweet ones like peanut brittle and taffy. In addition to being packed with added sugar, treats like these can damage the condition of your dental implant. We recommend filling your plate with nutrient-dense foods that have a softer consistency instead, such as plain yogurt, cottage cheese, steamed carrots, and bananas.