Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS A DENTAL IMPLANT
A dental implant has become the golden standard for replacing missing teeth. A single implant is made up of a titanium screw that is inserted in your jaw, a crown, and a connector that attaches the crown to the screw. Implants give you the ability to talk, eat, and laugh freely.
HOW DO DENTAL IMPLANTS WORK?
We place a screw in your jaw that serves the same purpose as the roots of your natural teeth. During several months of osseointegration, the implant integrates with the bone, creating stability and permanence. Once all healing has occurred, your restorative dentist places the final restoration.
WILL I NEED TO HAVE BONE GRAFTING?
The longer you have been missing a tooth the higher the likelihood of needing bone grafting however, every case is unique as several variables impact the amount of jaw bone you have available for an implant after a tooth is extracted. At your consultation, we will evaluate the surgical site, discuss with you your unique needs, and advise accordingly. Bone grafting is a safe and simple procedure that many implant patients require.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are a safe and viable option for most patients. Even if you have been told that you have insufficient bone volume for implants, bone grafting techniques to bulk up the bone are very successful. Schedule a consultation with us, and we will be able to provide you a more accurate evaluation of your candidacy for dental implants.
Will I have temporary teeth during the healing phase?
If the implant site is of cosmetic concern, there are a variety of temporary options to get you through the healing phase. In some cases, a temporary crown can even be placed onto the implant at the same time as surgery.
CAN DENTURES BE MADE INTO IMPLANTS?
This depends on the dentures. We can occasionally convert existing dentures into implant dentures, but more often, we create a new prosthesis that can be fixed to implants.
Do dental implants hurt?
With whatever anesthetic choice you pick, be assured that you will be comfortable throughout the implant procedure. After surgery, you’ll be relieved to know that most of our patients experience very little if any, discomfort which is usually managed well with over-the-counter pain medications. Any necessary prescriptions provided to you will be discussed prior to your discharge.
Do dental implants feel like real teeth?
Yes, in fact, many patients cannot tell their implants from their natural teeth once they have been restored.
Will I need to miss work for dental implant surgery?
Patients typically take anywhere from a few hours to a few days off of work, depending upon the extent of their surgery.
What if I am missing a lot of teeth?
We treat patients ranging from the loss of one tooth to the complete loss of all teeth in an arch(s). Your surgeon and the restorative dentist will review your scans and develop a variety of treatment options for your specific case. You will then have the opportunity to pick the most appropriate choice to satisfy your concerns and desires.
What are the risks and complications associated with dental implants?
Dental implants have an extremely high success rate. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there can be complications including the loss of the implant. If this were to occur, in most cases the implant can be replaced successfully.
How long do dental implants last?
Studies have shown that properly placed and well-cared-for dental implants can last indefinitely. Advanced technology and experience enable us to give you the very best chance of keeping yours for life!
How do I care for my implants?
Care for your implants just like you do your natural teeth: by brushing twice and flossing once daily. Regular check-ups with your restorative dentist are required to maintain the health of your implants and prosthesis.