Dental Implants Questions & FAQ
Dental implants have become a popular choice for people who are looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth. They offer a number of benefits, including improved appearance and function, and they can last for many years. However, before you decide if dental implants are right for you, it’s important to learn as much as possible about them. Here we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to serve as a replacement for the root of a natural tooth. Once in place, a dental implant can be used to support one or more artificial teeth, called crowns.
There are three parts of a dental implant:
- The titanium post, which is placed into the jawbone
- The abutment, which is used to connect the implant to the crown
- The crown, which is a false tooth that is attached to the abutment
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Anyone who has lost a tooth or teeth due to injury, gum disease, a failed root canal, or other reasons is a potential candidate for dental implants. Good oral hygiene, healthy gums, and sufficient bone in your jaw are required for successful implant placement. Your dentist will evaluate these factors during a consultation.
Are they safe?
Dental implants are considered a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth. The titanium in dental implants is well tolerated by the body, and there are no known risks associated with this material. In addition, dental implants have a success rate of over 98%. They’re one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth.
What Questions should I ask?
Before you decide to get dental implants, it’s important that you understand the entire process. This includes the consultation, implant placement, and recovery period. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you may have so that you can make an informed decision.
What is the difference between a dental implant and a bridge?
A dental implant is a stand-alone tooth replacement option, while a dental bridge relies on adjacent teeth for support. Dental implants are more expensive than bridges, but they offer many advantages, including improved oral health and longevity. Bridges can also cause damage to adjacent teeth.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of teeth being replaced and the complexity of the procedure. In general, dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. However, they offer a number of benefits that make them worth the investment.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants offer a number of advantages over other tooth replacement options. Here are some of the most notable:
- Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They’re also designed to fuse with the jawbone, which gives them added stability and prevents them from shifting around in your mouth.
- Improved function: Dental implants function just like natural teeth. This means that you can eat all of your favorite foods without worry.
- Improved oral health: Dental implants don’t require the surrounding teeth to be altered in any way. This helps to preserve your natural teeth and improves your overall oral health.
- Longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. They’re a great investment in your long-term oral health.
What are the disadvantages of dental implants?
Like any tooth-replacement option, dental implants have a few disadvantages. Here are some things to consider:
- Cost: Dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement options.
- Surgery: Dental implant surgery is a surgical procedure, which means that there is a small risk of complications. However, these complications are rare and can usually be resolved with simple treatment.
- Time: Dental implants can take several months to heal. This means that you’ll need to be patient while your new teeth are being placed.
All the disadvantages of dental implants are worth it when you consider the benefits they offer.
How painful is the Dental Implant Process?
While discomfort is different for everyone, most patients report that getting dental implants is no more painful than having a tooth extracted. In fact, many people say that the procedure is virtually painless. Your dentist will numb the area around the implant before placing it, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure.
Here at Pinnacle Dental Group, we use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients are as comfortable as possible.
Do dental implants work?
We are often asked if dental implants work. The success rate varies depending on the individual, but in general, for a healthy individual with good oral hygiene, the success rate is quite high. Studies have shown that dental implants have a success rate of over 98%.
When is the best time to have an implant?
There is no perfect time to have an implant placed. However, it’s important to remember that dental implants require a few months to heal. This means that if you’re considering having an implant placed, you should plan to visit your oral surgeon ahead so that you have enough time to recover before your next big event. Then it is time to show off that new smile!
Will my new teeth last?
This is among the top dental implant questions we get. Unlike other tooth-replacement options, your new teeth dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. With proper care, your dental implants can last you for the rest of your life. Conscientious home care and regular visits to your dentist are essential for the longevity of your dental implants and your new award-winning smile.
What can I eat after dental implant surgery?
You’ll need to take it easy for a few days following your surgery. This means avoiding hard or crunchy foods. Drink liquids and consume soft foods only like:
- Soups
- Pureed fruits and vegetables
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Pudding
- Cottage cheese
After a few days, you can gradually start to add other solid foods back into your diet. Be sure to chew slowly and carefully at first to avoid irritating your surgical site.
How long before my new teeth feel normal?
Depending on how many implants you’ve had placed, it can take several months for the area to heal completely. Once your implants have healed, they should feel just like your natural teeth. You’ll be able to eat all of your favorite foods and brush and floss normally.
Can dentures be made into implants?
Yes, dentures can be converted into implants. This procedure is called “all-on-four,” and it involves placing four implants in the bone or jawbone to support a full set of dentures. All-on-four is a great option for people who have worn dentures for many years and are partial to a more permanent solution that is fixed for their dentures.
Are they removable like dentures, or do they stay in your mouth?
Dental implants are not removable like dentures. They are permanently implanted in your mouth and act as a replacement for your natural teeth.
Contact Pinnacle Dental Group to Schedule Your Consultation
At Pinnacle Dental Group, we’re committed to providing you with outstanding dental care. We’ve become one of the leading providers of the dental implant procedure in the area because of our experience and expertise. Now that you’ve gone through some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants, we hope you feel more comfortable with the idea of having them placed. We are also happy to answer any related questions you may have about the dental implant process, dental implant, teeth, implant, surgery, tooth, bone and grafting questions, denture, dentures, healing, gum disease, jawbone questions, missing tooth procedure, cost, crown, mouth and other dentist questions. This dental implant FAQ was made to help you!
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today to schedule your dental implant consultation with our Dr. to plan the implant surgery. We’ll be happy to answer any additional questions you need to be answered and help you determine if dental implants are the right solution for you.
www.pinnacledentalgroupmi.com/dental-implants/