Dental Implant FAQs

Many factors go into whether or not a patient is a good candidate for dental implants. The ideal candidate for dental implants should:

• Be in good general health
• Have healthy gums
• Have enough bone in the jaw to support an implant
• Be committed to oral hygiene and regular dental visits

We will evaluate your smile and overall health to determine if dental implants are right for you.

Yes! Once your implant has healed and the dental prosthetic is placed, you will not be able to tell the difference between your implants and natural teeth. Implants are also very strong and durable, allowing you to eat all of your favorite foods without worry.

The two most common types of dental implants are endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most common type of implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and are often used for patients who are missing one or more teeth. Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone. They are often used for patients who do not have enough bone density in their jaw to support an endosteal implant.

Dental implants are placed using local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. You should feel no pain during the implant placement surgery. After the surgery, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

It typically takes 3-6 months for dental implants to fully heal. During this time, the implant will fuse to the jawbone, creating a strong and stable foundation for your new tooth.

Dental implants are a stand-alone tooth replacement option. They do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, as dental bridges do. Dental implants also fuse to the jawbone, which helps to preserve bone density in the treatment area.

Dental bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two dental crowns that are placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth. The false tooth is then suspended between the two crowns.

A dental crown is a type of dental prosthetic that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal. Dental crowns are not placed directly into the jawbone like dental implants are.

Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. In some cases, dental implants can be used to support a full arch of dentures. Our team will evaluate your smile to determine if implants are right for you.

Dental implants require the same oral care as your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. With proper care, your dental implants can last for years or even decades.