Dental Implants FAQs
1. What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to act as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant is secure, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached, providing a natural-looking and fully functional tooth replacement.
2. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people with one or more missing teeth can be good candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates are those with healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density to support the implant. If bone loss is an issue, procedures like bone grafting can help prepare the jaw for implants. A consultation at Crestview Family Dentistry will help determine if you’re a suitable candidate.
3. How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown or restoration attached to the implant may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the implant itself is designed to be a permanent solution.
4. What is the process of getting dental implants?
The process typically involves several steps. First, we conduct a consultation and detailed assessment of your oral health. If implants are suitable, the titanium post is surgically placed in the jaw. After a healing period of a few months to allow the implant to integrate with the bone, we attach a custom crown, bridge, or denture to complete your smile.
5. Does getting dental implants hurt?
The implant procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery. Afterward, some discomfort and swelling are normal but can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients report that the discomfort is less than they expected and comparable to a tooth extraction.
6. How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are important to keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy. With good oral hygiene and regular visits to Crestview Family Dentistry, your dental implants can last many years.
7. Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants have a long history of safety and success when placed by qualified professionals. They are made of biocompatible materials that are well-accepted by the body. The success rate for dental implants is over 95%, making them one of the most reliable options for tooth replacement.
8. Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?
Gum disease needs to be treated before dental implants can be placed. Healthy gums are crucial for the success of implants, so our team at Crestview Family Dentistry will work with you to treat any existing gum disease and restore your oral health before proceeding with implants.
9. How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants needed and whether additional procedures like bone grafting are required. At Crestview Family Dentistry, we provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation and offer financing options to help make the treatment affordable.
10. Can dental implants fail?
Although rare, dental implant failure can occur due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, or other health conditions that affect healing. At Crestview Family Dentistry, we provide thorough pre-treatment assessments and ongoing care to minimize the risk of implant failure.