You’ve heard of dental implants, but you still have a lot of questions, right? Today, the Preferred Dental team tackles eleven of the most common questions people have about dental implants and dental implant surgery. Take a look and then give us a call to schedule your next consultation in Kansas City.
1) What is Dental Implant Surgery?
Dental implant surgery is a common option for replacing missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures that rest on the gum line, dental implants are a long-term treatment that is surgically implanted into the jaw. These implanted, artificial teeth look like real teeth and have the same functionality as well. They are a more permanent solution to ordinary dentures and bridgework.
2) What are the benefits of Dental Implant Surgery?
Among the many advantages to getting dental implants are:
- Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel more natural than dentures. Because they fuse with your jawbone, they become permanent. Eventually, you won’t even notice them.
- Improved speech. Dentures can slip in your mouth, become loose, and make talking clearly very difficult. Dental implants, on the other hand, replace your teeth without requiring any sort of daily adjustments.
- Improved comfort. Once you’re used to the feel of your new dental implants, they are naturally a part of you!
- Easier eating. No more having to worry about not being able to eat your favorite foods! Since dental implants are fused into your jaw, they work just like regular teeth.
- Working teeth are not affected. With a tooth-supported bridge, nearby healthy teeth have to be reduced to support your replacements. However, dental implants do not affect working teeth, improving your overall oral health. Plus, it’s easier to brush between individual implanted teeth.
- They will last a long time. With good care, these durable implants can last a lifetime.
3) What happens during the procedure?
Dental implants are implanted into the jawbone where they replace the roots of the teeth that are missing. The implants contain titanium that, when implanted into the jaw, fuses with the jawbone. Once fusion occurs, the dental implants hold firmly in place, they do not slip or make noise. There are different types of dental implants available and the way that dental implant surgery is performed will depend on the type of implant that is chosen as well as the condition of the jaw.
4) Who should get dental implants?
Dental implants are not for everyone, but certain conditions and circumstances may make dental implants the better option:
- Having more than one missing tooth
- Having a jawbone that has reached full growth
- Having ample amounts of bone to secure the implant
- Having healthy oral tissues
- Being unwilling or unable to wear dentures
Do you fit any of these conditions? Give us a call today to learn more about affordable dental implant options with Preferred Dental in Blue Springs, MO.
5) Are dental implants safe though?
Yes! Unlike traditional dentures and bridgework, dental implants do not cause any damage to the bone. Additionally, all of the material used for dental implants are safe and do not cause any decay. Still, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, should check with their health care provider prior to having dental implant surgery. Fortunately, most individuals with these conditions will receive the green light for the procedure, as long as certain precautions are met. Dental implant surgery is not recommended for children as their jaws have not yet reached full growth.
6) What are the risks associated with Dental Implant Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some health risks associated with dental implant surgery. Complications are relatively rare and when they do occur they are generally mild, requiring minimal treatment. Possible health risks associated with dental implant surgery include:
- Infection occurring at the implant site
- Damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels
- Nerve damage
- Pain
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Sinus problems
7) I’ve heard the procedure can take several months to complete. Is that true?
Dental implant surgery is performed in several stages, with the entire process lasting anywhere from 3 to 9 months. Much of this time includes time off for healing and the growth of new jaw bone.
The first surgery involves the placement of the dental implant cylinder into the jawbone. A rest period of a few months follows.
The next surgery involves the placement of the abutment and the new artificial tooth. Another healing period then follows.
Some individuals will require a bone graft surgery prior to having dental implant surgery. This is common in individuals who have a jawbone that is too soft or is not thick enough to sustain the implant. During a bone graft, a piece of bone is taken from a different part of the jaw or another part of the body and is transplanted to the jawbone.
Still sound like a good option for you? Click here to see why Preferred Dental patients are some of the happiest patients in town!
8) That sounds pretty intense. Would I have to stay overnight in the hospital?
You’re in luck! Dental implant surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. It is performed in a dental office or in a hospital, with no overnight stay required.
9) What are the side effects that come along with Dental Implant Surgery?
Minor side effects of dental implant surgery include:
- Swelling of the gums
- Swelling of the face
- Pain at implant site
- Bleeding
These side effects are relatively mild and often improve shortly. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or pain medications. You will be instructed to eat only soft foods for up to one week. Self-dissolving stitches are typically used.
10) Does Dental Implant Surgery always work?
Unfortunately, dental implant surgery is not always successful. If the bone does not fuse to the implant, it will have to be removed and the procedure can be repeated. Still, this is incredibly rare. Maintaining good oral hygiene after dental implant surgery can help decrease the risk of complications and problems that may arise with dental implants.
11) I’m interested in dental implant surgery! What’s the next step?
A comprehensive dental exam and evaluation is required before the procedure can take place. This will include dental x-rays and taking a mold of the mouth to make a model of the mouth. A variety of specialists, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists and doctors will help to create your personal treatment plan.
Prior to the surgery, you will have the chance to discuss with your doctor the different anesthesia options available. You will have a choice of local, general or sedation anesthesia. Together with your dental specialist and health care team you can determine which option is the best choice for you.
Hello.. Sir
I have placed artificial 1tooth with support two side teeth in 2007,which is till. I want ask that it OK or need to replace it. What is side effect of longtime implant in health and during pregnancy on fetus.. Plz reply I really want to suggestion
Please call into our office and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
I observe due to longtime tooth placement causes more acidity and lose weight also.. Plz suggest some treatment or medicine
Please call into our office and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
It’s good to know that a bone graft may be necessary before getting implant surgery. I would imagine that bone grafts are a delicate process that requires a dental surgeon that knows what they are doing. My mother needs to get a dental implant, so I will make sure she finds a dentist that can provide the skill she needs!
It’s good that you point out that dental implants are an attractive way to replace missing teeth. I lost two of my front teeth recently, so I’m considering getting dental implants. I’m going to look for a good dentist in my area that does implants.
It’s great that you point out that dental implants can give you a better-looking smile if you are missing teeth. I lost a tooth on the tennis court a few days ago, so I’m considering going to a dentist to get a dental implant. I’m going to look for a good dentist in my area that does dental implants.
It’s great that this article point out that dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth. I lost one of my front teeth in a longboarding accident yesterday, so I’m thinking about having it replaced with a dental implant. I’m going to search for a good dental clinic in my area that does implants.
It’s cool that you highlight the fact that dental implants are a great-looking replacement for missing teeth. My brother lost several teeth in a motorcycle accident six weeks ago, so I’m considering recommending dental implants to him. I’m going to search for a good dentist that does dental implants in our area to recommend.
It’s interesting that you mention that dental implants can improve your appearance if you are missing teeth. I lost a tooth in a skateboarding accident last night, so I’m considering getting a dental implant. I’m going to search for a reputable dental clinic in my area that does implants.
Hi! Marx, I am totally agreed with your stance. It’s been a really nice, quick, and actual piece of information. Thanks for sharing your reviews…