Discover Affordable Dental Implant Solutions Near You
For many in Latrobe, Irwin, and Youngwood, the idea of a complete and radiant smile can feel like a distant wish, especially when facing the challenges of missing teeth. But what if you could rediscover the joy of eating your favorite foods without hesitation, speaking with absolute clarity, and laughing freely?
Fortunately, our Greensburg implant dentist, Dr. Del Kovacevic, can provide you with a beautiful and permanent solution in the form of dental implants. Unlike other restorative procedures, dental implants mimic a normal tooth from root to crown.
When you’re ready to explore the possibilities and take the first step towards a renewed smile, we invite you to connect with us. Call us today at 724-834-2089 to begin your transformation.
Why Choose Dr. Kovacevic for Local Dental Implant Therapy?
Choosing a local implant dentist for your dental implant journey means choosing convenience and a genuine connection. Dr. Del Kovacevic’s dental implant office is an established part of the Greensburg landscape, providing a consistent and reliable presence for your long-term oral health needs. Don’t just take it from us— read real patient testimonials!
If you’re in Greensburg, PA, or surrounding areas, and exploring dental implant solutions, we invite you to experience the dedicated care Dr. Del Kovacevic offers. To schedule your personalized consultation and discuss your options, call our Greensburg office today at 724-834-2089.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implant fuses with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, creating a replacement tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Dental implant surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure done in stages, with healing time between procedures. This fixture is comprised of three parts:
- Titanium Post: This fixture is made of titanium and is attached to your jawbone. Through osseointegration, this post will gradually fuse with the jaw structure, creating a permanent foundation for your new restoration.
- Abutment: The abutment connects the titanium post to the dental crown placed on top of the fixture. Once osseointegration is complete, a minor surgery is often required to place the abutment, which connects the implant to the final restoration. This metal piece will be inserted once the posts are secured.
- Dental Crown: Dr. Kovacevic will place a custom-made dental crown to help your restoration blend with the rest of your smile. Our experienced team will make sure your crown matches the shade of your natural teeth.
Types of Dental Implant Restorations
Single Tooth Replacement
If you’re missing a single tooth, a dental implant is an excellent solution. This involves surgically placing a titanium implant into the jawbone, which then fuses with the bone. Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, restoring the appearance and function of your natural tooth.
Multi-Tooth Replacement
For multiple missing teeth, implant-supported solutions offer a durable and natural-looking restoration. These options include:
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Multiple implants can support a bridge, replacing several teeth in a row. This eliminates the need to alter healthy teeth, as traditional bridges do.
- Implant-Supported Partial Dentures: These dentures are secured to implants, providing a more stable and comfortable fit than traditional dentures.
Full-Arch Replacement
If you’re missing all your teeth on an upper or lower arch, implant-supported dentures are a transformative solution. With just a few implants, you can enjoy a secure, stable, and natural-looking full set of teeth.
Financing Dental Implants with Dr. Kovacevic
The total cost of dental implant treatment can vary, as it is a highly personalized procedure. Several key elements, such as the number of implants, the location of the implants, and more, influence the final price, ensuring your treatment plan is specifically designed for your needs.
We want to make your journey to a new smile as smooth as possible, which includes offering flexible financing options.
- CareCredit®: CareCredit® provides flexible payment plans, including options with low or even no interest for qualified individuals, simplifying the process of managing the cost of your dental implants.
- Reviewing Your Coverage: We are happy to sit down with you and thoroughly review your specific dental insurance policy.
- Maximizing Your Benefits: Our knowledgeable staff works diligently to help you receive the maximum benefits available under your current insurance plan for your dental implant treatment.
Call us today at 724-834-2089 to discuss your financial options and take the first step toward a confident new smile!
Candidacy for Dental Implant Placement
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. Here are some factors that determine candidacy:
- Adequate Bone Density: The jawbone must be strong enough to support the implant.
- Good Oral Health: Patients must have healthy gums and teeth to ensure successful implant placement.
- Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining the health of dental implants.
- Realistic Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations about the procedure and its outcomes.
The Dental Implant Process
Getting dental implants involves careful steps to ensure your new teeth last. Under the care of Dr. Del Kovacevic in Greensburg, PA, you’ll be guided through a clear, comfortable process. Most dental implants offer a seamless transformation.
The dental implant process typically includes:
- Consultation & Planning: Dr. Kovacevic thoroughly examines your oral health using X-rays and 3D imaging, creating a precise, personalized treatment plan.
- Preliminary Procedures (If Needed): If your jawbone needs more support, procedures like bone grafting or sinus augmentation may be done before implant placement.
- Implant Placement Surgery: The titanium implant post is surgically placed into your jawbone in our Greensburg office, using local anesthesia for comfort.
- Osseointegration (Healing): Over 3 to 6 months, the implant naturally fuses with your jawbone, creating a strong anchor.
- Abutment Placement: A small connector (abutment) is attached to the implant, extending above the gum line. Healing of the gums is required for at least two weeks after the abutment is placed before attaching the artificial tooth.
- Restoration Placement: Your custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is securely attached to the abutment, completing your new, natural-looking smile.
Aftercare for Dental Implant Surgery
Proper aftercare is crucial for the long-term success of dental implants. Here are some tips for caring for your dental implants and reducing thew risk of implant failure:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily.
- Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid biting into hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, as this can damage the implant.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your implants.
Benefits of Dental Implants Over Alternative Restorations
Dental implants offer a wide range of benefits for individuals missing teeth. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Improved Appearance: Dental implants can significantly enhance your smile’s appearance by replacing multiple teeth, boosting self-confidence.
- Improved Speech: Missing teeth can affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain sounds. Dental implants can help improve your speech clarity.
- Improved Chewing and Eating: Dental implants allow you to chew and eat a wider variety of foods without discomfort or difficulty.
- Preservation of Jawbone: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate. Dental implants help to stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss.
- Durability and Longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies indicate that dental implants can survive for 10 to 15 years with proper care.
- Convenience: Unlike removable dentures, dental implants do not require adhesives or special cleaning solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants boast a remarkably high success rate, often exceeding 95%. This success is attributed to the biocompatibility of the implant material (titanium) and the natural process of osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone. Dental implant surgery poses some health risks, which are usually minor and can be easily treated. Factors like proper oral hygiene and overall health contribute to these impressive outcomes.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
No, getting dental implants isn’t painful. The dental implant placement procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t experience pain during the surgery. After the procedure, some mild discomfort or swelling is common, but this can be managed effectively with over-the-counter pain relievers and usually subsides within a few days.
How long does the entire dental implant process take?
The complete dental implant process typically spans several months. This timeframe includes the initial surgical placement of the implant, the essential healing period for osseointegration, and the final placement of the custom crown.
Are dental implants a good option for everyone?
While dental implants are an excellent solution for many, candidacy depends on several factors, including sufficient jawbone density, good general health, and commitment to oral hygiene. Dr. Del Kovacevic will conduct a thorough evaluation during your consultation to determine if dental implants are the right treatment path for your needs.
Achieve Your Smile’s Potential With Dental Implants
You deserve a comfortable, natural-looking smile and to live your life without having to deal with missing teeth. When you’re ready to receive a permanent solution that can improve the look of your smile, call our Greensburg dentist at (724) 834-2089 to schedule a dental implant consultation. We welcome patients in Fort Allen, Bovard, and South Greensburg, PA.