Dental Implants FAQ
Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
Are you considering dental implants? If you’re curious about the procedure, cost, or benefits, we’re here to provide all the facts. At Signature Smiles Dentistry, we want to ensure our patients in Parker, CO, feel confident and informed about their dental health choices. As you read below, we’ll answer the most common questions we receive about dental implants, helping you understand if this treatment is the right solution for you. We’ll cover everything from the purpose and strength of implants to the procedure itself and aftercare.
Dental Implants FAQ
Dental implants are created to provide a strong, permanent foundation for replacement teeth. They are the go-to solution for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, periodontal disease, or other reasons. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants function like natural tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing the bone loss that often occurs when teeth are missing. Their primary purpose is to restore function, improve appearance, and give you a smile that feels and looks completely natural.
A dental implant is a tiny, screw-like post that is placed into the jawbone below the gum line. This acts as an artificial tooth root. Once it has fused with the bone, it provides a stable base for a new tooth, or crown.
Yes, and in some ways, even stronger. Once an implant fully integrates with your jawbone, it creates an incredibly durable and stable foundation for your new tooth. Titanium is known for its strength and resistance to decay. While the crown on top can be damaged like a natural tooth, the implant post is exceptionally resilient. This strength allows you to eat, speak, and smile confidently with a complete set of healthy, natural teeth.
Dental implants offer many benefits versus other tooth replacement options. Here are the following benefits you can expect:
- Improved Appearance: Implants appear and feel like your own teeth, creating a seamless, natural smile.
- Enhanced Comfort: Because implants become part of you, they eliminate the discomfort and slipping associated with removable dentures.
- Easier Eating: You can enjoy your favorite foods confidently and without pain, as implants function like natural teeth.
- Better Oral Health: Implants don’t require altering closeby teeth, preserving your natural tooth structure and improving long-term oral health.
- Durability: Implants are very durable and can last a lifetime with the proper care.
- Jawbone Preservation: They stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone deterioration and helping to keep your facial structure.
Dental implants can endure your entire life with proper care and regular dental check-ups. The implant post itself is created to be a permanent solution. However, because of normal wear and tear, the crown attached to the implant might need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years. Good oral hygiene, like daily brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings, is important for maintaining the lifespan of your dental implants.
While rare, an infection around a dental implant, known as peri-implantitis, can occur. The symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums around the implant, persistent bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, or bleeding when you brush. You might also notice the implant feeling loose. If you experience any of these signs, you must immediately contact your dentist at Signature Smiles Dentistry for an evaluation.
This is one of the most common concerns. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the surgery. Most patients report that the process is much less uncomfortable than they expected. You may experience some soreness, swelling, and minor discomfort in the days after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The whole dental implant process can take several months from start to finish. The timeline varies depending on your needs, including whether bone grafting is required. After placing the implant, it needs time to fuse with the jawbone, which can take three to six months. Some patients may be candidates for one-day dental implants, where a temporary crown is placed the same day as the implant surgery. However, this isn’t the best option for everyone.
Dental implants are a versatile solution that can replace a single tooth, many teeth, or a full row of teeth. A single implant can support one crown. Two or more implants can support a fixed bridge for multiple missing teeth. Suppose you need to replace all of your upper or lower teeth. In that case, a denture can be securely attached to just a few strategically placed implants, providing much greater stability and comfort than a traditional removable denture.
Dental implants are a prime solution for tooth loss, offering a durable, natural-looking, and long-lasting way to restore your smile and confidence. While the process is a commitment, the results can be life-changing. If you have more questions or want to find out if you’re a candidate for dental implants, the team at Signature Smiles Dentistry in Parker, CO, is here to help. Schedule a consultation with us today to take the first step toward a healthier, more complete smile.