Dental Implants FAQ
Get answers to some commonly asked questions about dental implants
If you’re interested in getting dental implants to replace your missing teeth, your best bet is to talk to your dentist about your eligibility for this surgical procedure. While your dentist is the person best equipped to help you determine whether or not getting dental implants will help you meet your goals, it never hurts to do some research on your own. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about dental implants to help you get started.
What Exactly is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is made up of two main sections: a titanium implant peg that will be surgically placed into your jawbone, and a crown that will be attached to the implant to replace your missing tooth.
In some cases, certain medical conditions can also cause or contribute to bad breath. For example, if you have dry mouth you may be more susceptible to developing bad breath because you won’t have enough saliva to wash away food particles. Individuals who suffer from respiratory tract infections, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, and liver or kidney problems may also have bad breath.
How Many Teeth Can I Replace?
Dental implants provide patients with the ability to replace one missing tooth or all of their teeth. When one tooth has been lost, a single implant topped with a crown is used. When multiple adjacent teeth or even an entire set of teeth have been lost, a few dental implants can be used to securely anchor a partial or full denture.
How Long Does it Take to Get Dental Implants?
Altogether, it can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months to complete all the steps involved in getting dental implants. It all depends on how fast you heal after surgery and whether or not you need additional treatments like tooth extraction or bone graft surgery prior to your dental implant surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer many benefits over other methods of tooth replacement such as bridges and dentures. Dental implants look and feel natural, won’t trap food particles and bacteria or weaken adjacent teeth like a bridge, and won’t cause comfort and self-confidence issues like dentures. Dental implants can also perform the very important function of improving bone strength in your jaw, because your bone will actually grow over and bond with the titanium implant pegs.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Provided your jawbone is strong, dental implants can last for decades. There are many cases of dental implants continuing to perform perfectly after over 20 years of use.
Are Dental Implants Expensive?
Dental implants are more expensive than alternative methods of replacing missing teeth. However, California Dental Group will help you determine what coverage your dental insurance provider may offer and provide payment plan options to help you afford this procedure.
Should I Be Afraid to Get Surgery?
No! While risks similar to that of any surgical procedure are associated with dental implant surgery, relatively few patients experience complications. After almost 50 years of clinical research, dental implants have an overall success rate of 95 percent, so you are extremely likely to enjoy a quick recovery and greatly improved quality of life after receiving your dental implants.
