Sturdy replacement teeth that look amazing are yours with dental implants. Learn more about obtaining dental implants in Corning, NY here.

What Are Dental Implants?

Who Needs Dental Implant?

Some people need dental implants because of tooth loss, but others may get them for cosmetic reasons. This distinction is important because implants can be expensive. Insurance will only cover them if they are medically necessary.

Medically Necessary Dental Implants

The most common situation where a dental implant is medically necessary and, therefore, eligible for insurance coverage is if someone experiences tooth loss after an accident and has the lost tooth replaced with an implant.

Dental implants may also be medically necessary after losing a tooth or needing to have it extracted due to decay. However, some insurers will only cover the procedure if the person has a history of proper oral hygiene.

A smaller number of insurance providers will cover implants after any form of tooth loss. That's because missing teeth can compromise jawbone health. In these cases, getting implants is a form of preventative dentistry.

Cosmetic Dental Implants

Most other reasons for getting dental implants are cosmetic in nature. Some people may get them to replace a discolored or chipped tooth.

Others may prefer implant-supported dentures instead of removable ones.

Insurance does not typically cover the cost of cosmetic implants in these situations. For denture patients, insurers typically provide benefits for the lowest-cost option, which is usually a conventional denture arch.

Types of Dental Implants

There are two main types of dental implants. Endosteal implants are attached to the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are attached to the gum line that sits just above the jawbone.

The type of dental implant that is right for you depends on your oral health. Endosteal implants are best for people with excellent dental health.

Subperiosteal implants are alternatives for people with poor oral health.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the gold standard because they are more durable and take less time and effort to place. But they are not for people who do not have enough jawbone to support them.

Reasons someone might lack sufficient jawbone for an endosteal implant include gum disease, missing an adult tooth, oral trauma, oral infections, and genetic deformities.

Subperiosteal Implants

The good news is that these individuals can still get dental implants. Subperiosteal implants are recommended for patients who do not have sufficient natural jawbone for the implant screw to fuse with.

There are other options available instead of subperiosteal implants. For example, someone might get a bone graft, ridge expansion, or sinus lift to make room for an endosteal implant.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants aren't just nice to look at. They also serve more practical functions. Here are the most important benefits of dental implants to consider before scheduling an appointment in Corning, NY.

Implants Are the Closest Thing to Natural Teeth

Dental implants are not the only option for replacing missing or unsightly teeth, but they are the best solution. Implants are permanent, look like natural teeth, and mimic the function and structure of real tooth roots.

Dentures and bridges are other options to consider, especially for a full smile replacement. However, these dental appliances don't match up to the advantages of dental implants.

Implants Are Durable and Easy to Maintain

Implants are relatively low-maintenance options, especially compared to alternatives like dentures and bridges. They don't need to be removed or cleaned separately. Instead, you can care for them like regular teeth.

Of course, dental implants don't come without some care instructions. For example, always avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes and abrasive products to preserve the natural, tooth-like finish of your artificial teeth.

Implants Can Improve Your Oral Health

Missing teeth can compromise your jawbone health, allow surrounding teeth to move around, cause bacteria build-up, and destroy your bite.

Replacing them with dental implants can prevent these issues, improving your oral health.

Of these, preserving your jawbone is the most critical. The bone beneath a lost tooth can cause jawbone decay. Over time, the loss of jawbone can change the way your face looks and even make it difficult to eat or speak.

Get Dental Implants in Corning, NY

Implants are the best dental fix for missing or unsightly teeth. They are highly durable, easy to maintain, and look like natural teeth. Plus, dental implants can improve your oral health in ways alternative options can't.

Are you searching for dental implants in Corning, NY? Finger Lakes Family Dental offers same-day appointments and affordable rates for new patients. Schedule your first visit today and take advantage of our new patient offer!