Frequently Asked Dental Implant Questions Tampa

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic device that is used as a replacement for a lost, broken, or missing tooth. The implant consists of three parts. First, there is the titanium or ceramic post that fuses with the jaw naturally and anchors your replacement tooth. Second, there is the abutment, which connects the crown or tooth to the implant post. Third, there is the tooth crown, which looks, feels, and functions like a real tooth.

Why get dental implants versus a bridge or partial denture?

Dental implants will provide patients with the most “real” feel and function of a tooth. It is one of the strongest replacement options and helps maintain valuable jawbone for the long term. It is arguably the most predictable and best replacement for a single missing tooth or multiple teeth. It is also the most conservative option because we do not modify the teeth next to the implant as we do with a bridge or partial.

How is Florida Digital Implants different from other dental offices?

We believe that guided dental implant surgery is an important key to long-term success. An important factor is the position of the implant with respect to your future tooth. Guided implant surgery utilizes custom, fabricated surgical guides that help us better predict the precise location of your implant based on the future position of your teeth. In short, we design your tooth replacement in the perfect position and then decide the location of the implant and make a guide that allows us to place it right where we want it. The use of a surgical guide helps us do this more precisely and predictably. It’s also safer and shortens the amount of time that you’re in the office.

How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implant cost typically depends on how many teeth and how many parts of the implant we need to customize. The cost could be as little as $2000 for a single tooth (without insurance). If you need a complete set of top or bottom teeth and/or extractions of your current teeth, the cost is typically around $10,000 or more. The cost will be dependent on how many implants we need to put into place and many different factors. Discounts may apply, and you should contact your dental insurance company for any possible benefits that could lower your costs.

How long does it take to get a dental implant from start to finish?

Implants usually take 3-4 months to heal before we can attach a tooth. The implant will be under the gums during this time. If this is a front tooth, we will also need to fabricate a healing retainer so that you don’t have to go without your tooth! If you need one removed before the implant, you’ll typically need an additional 3-4 months of healing.

How do I know if I am a candidate for dental implants?

Most patients are candidates for dental implants. We have a variety of implant options that can fit almost anyone’s needs. That includes traditional dental implants, zygomatic, and pterygoid implants. To determine the most appropriate solution, we recommend a CT scan of your bone to identify the best location.

Do I have to see an oral surgeon for dental implants?

At Florida Digital Implants, your trained general dentist will design and place your ideal implant. Typically, we do not need to refer you to another office unless that is your preference as the patient or decide it is a safer alternative given your medical history or dental needs.

Are dental implants covered by insurance?

This is dependent on your dental and medical plan. The best advice is to call your insurance company and ask, but we are also happy to do it on your behalf! Note: Most dental insurance companies’ maximum contribution will be around $1000 to $2500.

Are dental implants hard to take care of?

Dental implants function, feel, and look like real teeth. We also suggest you maintain them just like your real teeth. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are recommended.

We hope these FAQs have addressed some of your concerns. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us.