If you have spaces where teeth are now missing then your dentist will recommend a tooth replacement option such as dental implants. In this post, our Surrey and Langley dentist shares some of the questions that patients often ask us about dental implants.
1. Dental Implants: What are they?
Your dental implant's artificial titanium screw and restoration (replacement tooth, denture, or bridge) are intended to replace a missing tooth. This implant will look and feel just like like one of your own teeth.
2. What are the main benefits of dental implants?
When you lose a tooth it leaves a space along the jaw bone and can result in the surrounding teeth shifting toward the space. Dental implants may be able to do the following:
- Help you eat and speak more easily
- Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting
- Improve or restore tissues in the face
You should be able to improve your functionality, appearance, and comfort with dental implants. In addition, once you have recovered from the procedure, you will have greater confidence in your smile and will no longer be limited in your food options.
3. What are the possible complications with dental implants?
Dental implants are a safe and straightforward procedure. This is actually one of the most commonly performed treatments. It is also the only restoration treatment that promotes natural bone growth beneath a missing tooth.
4. Will the dental implant procedure hurt?
The dental implant process usually takes a few visits over several months and is performed by a dentist or periodontist.
During your first appointment, impressions (moulds) and X-rays of the jaw and teeth will be taken to determine how much gum tissue, bone and spacing are available for a dental implant.
While your implant is surgically placed into the bone, the surrounding area will be anesthetized. The area must then heal and integrate with the bone, a process that can take up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be necessary to insert the "post" that will hold the prosthetic tooth in place.
Your dentist will need to place a fake tooth attached to the top of the implant. Because several fittings may be required, this step could take up to two months to complete. The dentist will attach the artificial teeth to the implant after another period of healing, providing stability and comfort.
5. What can you expect during recovery after a dental implant?
Depending on your circumstances, such as whether you have any pre-existing conditions or require special procedures prior to the dental implant surgery, it can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months for a dental implant to heal. For the implant to remain in place, the surrounding bone must heal and surround the implant.
6. Are dental implants expensive?
A number of variables affect the price of your dental implant, including whether or not your insurance will cover the surgery and implant in full or in part. There are health plans that cover the total cost of implants. Your dentist can provide you with a treatment plan that includes a cost estimate, a scheduled appointment, and follow-up appointments. Speak with your dentist to learn more about the type of dental implant used and what the associated costs may be.
7. Do dental implants last a long time?
Like most things, the better care you take of your dental implant, the longer it will last. Dental implants of all kinds are improving. At the moment, there is no time limit on the lifespan of cylindrical dental implant systems.
Your Dentist Can Offer More Information
There is much to learn about dental implants, and depending on your circumstances, you may have further inquiries. Our Surrey and Langley dentists can respond to any questions you may have about dental implants.