You might have heard of dental implants and wondered what they are, or they may have been suggested to you as part of your dental treatment. This is a very common dental procedure with a very high rate of success.
The following are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants:
Q: What Is A Dental Implant?
A: A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw.
Q: Why Would I Need an Implant?
A: If you’ve lost one or more teeth, an implant helps securely anchor a replacement tooth, crown, cap, bridge, or dentures. They’re stronger and last longer than dentures or a bridge alone and can make them less likely to slip and cause gum irritation. As a result, you’ll be less likely to have chewing or speech issues.
Q: Why Do I Need to Replace a Missing Tooth that Doesn’t Show?
A: A missing tooth can cause your gums to recede around adjacent teeth, as well as causing those teeth to wear prematurely. It can also cause bone loss in the area of the lost tooth. You might experience pain in your jaw, headaches, and shifting teeth, which can cause bite problems.
Q: Will Getting an Implant Hurt?
A: The pain involved is mild. Many times, a local anesthesia is all that’s needed. Sometimes sedation is used in addition to local anesthesia.
Q: How Long Does the Surgery Take?
A: Generally, it depends on the number of implants you need. For one implant, it often takes just over an hour. Multiple implants can take two to three hours.
Q: What’s Done During the Surgery?
A: A small hole will be made in your jaw bone to hold the screw that will hold the dental implant in place. The implant is placed into the bone socket where the tooth is missing. A small connector post is attached to hold your new tooth, which will be matched to the color of your natural teeth.
Q: How Do I Care for My Dental Implants Afterward?
A: Dental implants don’t require a lot of special care. You’ll need to keep them clean by brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day. If you have trouble fitting regular floss in between your teeth, you can use a specially designed interdental brush to help you do a thorough job.
You’ll also need to have dental checkups every six months to a year so your implants and surrounding gums are checked for any signs of problems.
Q: How Long Will My Implants Last?
A: With proper care, implants can be even more durable than your natural teeth. Many last a lifetime.
If you have one or more missing teeth, My Family Dentistry can help you decide if implants are a good option. We also offer a state-of-the-art dental implant system that lets you have beautiful new teeth in just a day.
What are you waiting for? Contact us for more information.
