Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
No one wants to feel insecure about their smile or worry about being unable to use their teeth as intended. Unfortunately, that is very much a reality for many people. Thanks to new advancements in the field of dentistry, however, both aesthetics and function can be restored with dental implants. Your oral surgeon can undoubtedly provide you with detailed information about this type of procedure and help to determine whether it’s right for you. But in today’s post, we’re answering some of the most common questions that dental clinicians receive about this treatment option.
What exactly are dental implants?
Essentially, dental implants are prosthetics that are permanently embedded into the jawbone by an oral surgeon. On top of that small titanium post, a crown, bridge, or denture can then be attached a few months later after healing has occurred. It’s a long-term, highly functional solution for people who require tooth replacement.
What are the reasons someone might obtain dental implants?
Someone who has a single missing tooth or several missing teeth might consider dental implants as a welcome alternative to conventional dentures or other options. Whether you’ve had missing teeth your whole life or had to remove certain teeth due to surgery or decay, dental implants may be an option for you. Dental implants are especially helpful for those individuals who have used conventional dentures that do not fit well enough for them to enjoy eating or smile in public like they used to.
Can anyone with a need for implants have them placed?
Although an estimated 3 million people now have dental implants, not everyone is a viable candidate for this procedure. If you do not have enough bone in your jaw, you may be required to undergo other types of procedures before you can have an implant placed. Those who have advanced periodontal disease may not be able to obtain dental implants due to the progressive nature of that condition. In addition, those who have certain chronic diseases or take certain medications may not be able to undergo this procedure due to a compromised healing process. While most adults are typically good candidates for implants, it’s important to talk to your oral surgeon, whom you can trust to evaluate your concerns and to assess whether you are personally able to have this procedure performed.
Will getting dental implants be painful?
Typically, this procedure will be performed under local anesthesia, meaning that patients will experience little to no pain during the treatment itself. We at East MS Oral & Facial Surgery, however, are well qualified to also provide IV conscious sedation or general anesthesia should you have any dental anxiety issues or concerns. While the healing process may be slightly uncomfortable, most patients do not experience a great deal of pain. In the majority of cases, any inflammation experienced post-treatment can be addressed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. Whatever small amount of discomfort you may feel will certainly be offset by your restored function and confidence.
Are implants as strong as natural teeth?
Actually, your oral surgeon will probably tell you that your implants are likely to be stronger than your natural teeth could ever be! Because implants are not prone to dental diseases, these new teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. They also provide much greater functionality than patients would be able to obtain with temporary or removable alternatives. You should be able to enjoy all foods and smile to the fullest knowing that your teeth will literally be made to last.
If you have further questions about dental implants or want to know whether they could be an option for you, we’re here to help. To make an appointment, please contact our offices today.