Learn About Dental Implant Options in Oklahoma City

Understanding Dental Implants: What They Are and How They Work

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made from titanium that dentists place into your jawbone to support replacement teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges that sit on top of your gums, implants become part of your jaw structure through a process called osseointegration, where bone gradually grows around the implant to hold it firmly in place.

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The implant itself is a small screw-like post that a dentist or oral surgeon places surgically into your jawbone. Once the bone has healed and integrated with the implant (typically 3 to 6 months), a dentist attaches an abutment, which is a connector piece that sits on top of the implant. Finally, a crown (artificial tooth) is attached to the abutment. This crown is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.

Implants differ from other tooth replacement options in several important ways. Bridges require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth to serve as anchors, while implants stand alone and don't affect neighboring teeth. Dentures are removable and can shift while eating or speaking, while implants remain fixed in your mouth just like natural teeth. Many people find implants feel and function more naturally than these alternatives.

The success rate for dental implants in the United States ranges from 95 to 98 percent, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. This high success rate makes implants a popular choice for people missing one tooth, several teeth, or all their teeth. However, success depends on having adequate jawbone density and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Practical takeaway: Understanding that implants are surgically integrated replacements rather than removable appliances helps you decide if this option fits your needs and lifestyle.

Types of Dental Implants Available in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City dental practices offer several types of implant systems, each designed for different situations and patient needs. The most common type is the endosteal implant, which is placed directly into the jawbone. These implants are typically shaped like small screws and are suitable for most patients with adequate bone structure. Endosteal implants come from various manufacturers, including Straumann, Zimmer, Nobel Biocare, and Osstem, each with different designs and materials.

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Subperiosteal implants are an alternative option for patients who don't have enough jawbone height for traditional implants. Rather than being placed into the bone, these implants sit on top of the jawbone but beneath the gum tissue. A metal framework is custom-fitted to your jaw and holds the implant posts that protrude through the gums. While less common than endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants may be discussed with your dentist if bone loss is significant.

Zygomatic implants represent another specialized option for patients with severe bone loss. These longer implants anchor to the cheekbone rather than the jaw, allowing people who would otherwise need bone grafting to receive implants. This option is typically performed by oral surgeons with specialized training and is less frequently used than standard implants.

All-on-4 and All-on-6 implant systems are designed for people missing all or most of their teeth. Instead of placing an implant for each missing tooth, the dentist places four or six implants strategically positioned in the jawbone, then attaches a full arch of replacement teeth to these implants. These systems can often be completed faster than traditional implant treatment and may reduce the overall cost.

Practical takeaway: The right implant type depends on your jawbone structure, the number of teeth you're missing, and your overall health status—factors a dentist in Oklahoma City can evaluate during an initial consultation.

The Dental Implant Process: Timeline and What to Expect

The dental implant process typically takes several months from start to finish, though the exact timeline varies depending on your specific situation. Understanding each stage helps you prepare mentally and physically for treatment.

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The first stage involves a comprehensive evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon. During this appointment, the provider examines your mouth, takes X-rays, and possibly a CT scan to assess your jawbone density and height. The dentist also reviews your medical history, because certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders may affect healing. This evaluation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and helps determine if you're a suitable candidate and which type of implant system would work best for you.

If bone grafting is needed because your jawbone is too thin or short, this may be performed before implant placement. Bone grafting material (from your own bone, donated bone, or synthetic material) is placed where bone is lacking. This grafting stage can add 4 to 12 months to your total treatment time, as the grafted bone must heal and integrate before implant placement.

The surgical placement of the implant is the next major step. During this procedure, the oral surgeon or dentist makes an incision in your gum to expose the jawbone, then carefully drills a hole and inserts the titanium implant. The gum is closed, and the implant begins the osseointegration process. This surgery typically takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on complexity. Most patients experience swelling and some discomfort for several days afterward, manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.

The osseointegration period is when your body does the work. During the 3 to 6 months after surgery, new bone grows around the implant, anchoring it securely. You'll have follow-up appointments during this time to monitor healing. Some implant systems allow placement of a temporary tooth while osseointegration occurs, while others keep the area covered until integration is complete.

Once osseointegration is complete, your dentist will verify that the implant is stable, then schedule an appointment to place the abutment and take impressions for your crown. The crown is fabricated in a laboratory, typically taking 1 to 2 weeks. At a final appointment, your custom crown is attached to the abutment and adjusted for proper bite and comfort.

Practical takeaway: Plan for a treatment timeline of 4 to 9 months for a standard implant, but discuss your specific timeline with your dentist, as individual healing rates and other factors can affect the exact duration.

Cost Considerations and Financing Options in Oklahoma City

Dental implant costs in Oklahoma City vary based on several factors, and understanding these can help you budget for treatment. A single implant, abutment, and crown typically ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 in Oklahoma, though some practices may charge more or less. This range reflects differences in the dentist's experience, the implant system used, the complexity of your case, and your specific location within Oklahoma City.

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If you need bone grafting before implant placement, add $500 to $3,000 to your total cost, depending on the amount of bone needed and the type of grafting material used. Patients needing multiple implants or full-mouth rehabilitation (such as All-on-4 systems) may spend $15,000 to $30,000 or more for complete treatment.

Insurance coverage for dental implants is limited in Oklahoma. Most dental insurance plans classify implants as cosmetic or elective procedures and don't cover them. However, some plans may cover a portion of the crown or abutment if they're deemed medically necessary. It's important to contact your insurance provider directly to understand your specific coverage.

Many Oklahoma City dental practices offer financing plans to make implant treatment more manageable. Common options include in-house payment plans where you pay the dentist directly over time, often with no interest if paid within a certain period. Third-party financing companies like CareCredit, Lending Club, and LendingTree also partner with dental offices to provide loans specifically for dental treatment. These typically involve a credit check and monthly payments with interest rates varying based on creditworthiness and loan terms.

Some dental schools and community health centers in Oklahoma offer implant treatment at reduced costs as part of their training programs. While treatment may take longer since students perform procedures under supervision, the quality of care is monitored by experienced instructors. The University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, located in Oklahoma City, offers services through its dental clinics.

Practical takeaway: Research multiple financing options and ask dental practices about payment plans, as costs and financing availability vary significantly between providers in the Oklahoma City area.