Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions

If you have missing teeth, your dentist may suggest dental implants as replacements. If you have concerns about the procedure, you have come to the right place. Below are answers to the most common questions about dental implants. 

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium tooth root that a dentist drills into your jawbone. Then, the dentist inserts a connector called an abutment on top of the post to hold a crown, bridge, or partial denture. Thus, the implant has three parts, each of which the dentist inserts in different stages.

How Does a Dental Implant Work?

Dentists use titanium to make implant posts as it integrates with your jawbone. Over time, your jawbone grows around the implant and fuses it into place, making it a reliable tooth root. 

Your dentist matches the implant crown to your natural teeth, and you will forget that you even have artificial teeth because it looks and functions just like your other teeth. Also, implants don't slip or decay like bridgework often does. 

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

During your evaluation, your dentist determines if you have enough jawbone to support the implant. The practitioner can advise you about bone grafting if you don't have enough jawbone.

The best candidate for a dental implant should be in good oral and overall health. You should also have healthy gum tissues and be free of gum disease. The dentist will typically ask about your medical conditions since some conditions may interfere with bone healing. 

The dental implant placement process takes a few months, and you must be willing to commit the time for maximum success. If you smoke, you must be ready to quit since it increases the probability of implant failure. 

Is Placement Painful?

You may worry about pain during dental implant placement if you have dental anxiety. However, your dentist numbs the working area and partially or fully sedates you to make you comfortable. Many patients find that the experience is much less discomforting than they expected. Follow your dentist's care instructions after placement to prevent infection and minimize discomfort. 

Are Dental Implants Safe?

Dentists have used dental implants for over half a century, and these devices have been proven effective and safe for teeth replacement. Additionally, implants stimulate natural bone growth and promote better oral health. 

However, complications can arise as with any other dental procedure. Consult a professional and experienced dentist and follow the recommended habits to increase the success rate of your implants. 

What Can You Eat After Getting Implants?

Stick to liquid and soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, pudding, cooked cereals, and milkshakes for two days after the placement to promote faster healing. For the following week, eat foods that are easy to chew, such as steamed vegetables, eggs, soft bread, and bananas. Then, slowly introduce your regular foods as the healed implant begins to function like normal teeth.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Well-placed and looked-after implants last for decades. Take care of the implants just as you do your natural teeth. That includes daily flossing, brushing, and attending regular dentist appointments. Your dentist will also advise you on proper nutrition and lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking, to ensure your implants last nearly a lifetime. 

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants look like your own teeth, which can make you less self-conscious in social settings. Implants also enhance speech, unlike ill-fitting dentures that cause muffled speech and discomfort. 

Over time, the implants fuse fully with your bone and become a part of you. With fully healed implants, you can enjoy your favorite foods without pain. Additionally, you don't have to remove the implants, unlike removable dentures which should be removed each night. 

Getting dental implants is a significant step, and our dental experts at Smiles By Hogan are ready to help determine if they are right for you. Browse our website or contact us today to discover more about our dental implant services.