Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
2. Why choose dental implants over other tooth replacement options?
– Stability and Durability: Implants fuse with the jawbone, offering superior stability compared to dentures or bridges.
– Improved Function: They allow for natural chewing and speaking abilities.
– Enhanced Aesthetics: Implants look and feel like natural teeth.
– Bone Preservation: They stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur with missing teeth.
– Long-Term Solution: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
3. Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Ideal candidates have:
– Sufficient jawbone density.
– Healthy gums.
– Good overall health.
– Commitment to oral hygiene.
A dentist will evaluate your individual case to determine suitability.
4. What is the dental implant procedure like?
The procedure typically involves several steps:
– Initial Consultation: Evaluation and treatment planning. Typically requires CBCT (3dimensional x-ray)
– Implant Placement: Surgical insertion of the implant into the jawbone.
– Osseointegration: Healing process where the implant fuses with the bone (3~6 months).
– Abutment Placement: A connector is attached to the implant.
– Crown Placement: The artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the abutment.
5. How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire process can take several months, typically 3 to 6 months or longer, depending on healing and bone integration. Osseointegration is a crucial part of the process, and this takes time. If you need extensive bone graft whole process could takes longer than an year.
6. Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Contrary to common belief, dental implant procedures are generally not painful. In fact, they are often less painful than a simple tooth extraction, except in cases involving extensive bone grafting. Post-operative discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
7. How much do dental implants cost?
Check out the post ‘Factors affecting the cost of the dental implant treatment’. Dental implants are generally more expensive than other tooth replacement options, but they offer long-term value.
8. What is osseointegration
Osseointegration is the process where the dental implant fuses directly with the jawbone. This provides the strong and stable foundation needed for the replacement tooth.
9. What is an abutment?
An abutment is a connector piece that is attached to the dental implant. It serves as a base for the crown, bridge, or denture. Check out this post ‘The Structure of Dental Implants‘.
10. How do I care for dental implants?
– Proper hygiene care includes:
– Brushing and flossing or waterpik (water flosser).
– Regular dental checkups and cleanings.
– Avoiding grinding and clenching. Dental implants are weak to lateral force. You may need a night guard to avoid detrimental force.
– Managing medical condition such as diabetes.
– Avoiding smoking
11. Can dental implants fail?
While dental implants have a high success rate, failures can occur due to:
– Infection (peri-implantitis).
– Insufficient bone density.
– Poor oral hygiene.
– Smoking.
– Medical conditions.
12. What are the benefits/drawbacks of all-on-4 (all-on-6) dental implants?
– Benefits include:
– Lower treatment costs
– Improved stability than traditional dentures
– Drawbacks:
– Higher risk of failure compared to traditional one-on-one treatment plans
13. Will I need a bone graft?
If your jawbone lacks sufficient density or volume, a bone graft may be necessary to provide a stable foundation for the implant.
14. Are there any alternatives to dental implants?
– Multiple missing teeth: Dentures.
– Single missing tooth: Bridges.