Answers To 5 Common Dental Implant Questions

Posted on: 16 August 2021

Are you considering dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth? If so, then you likely have some questions about implants. 

1. Does Every Missing Tooth Need an Implant?

The good news is that you may only need as few as four implant posts put in, even if you need to replace a full mouth of teeth. This is because multiple tooth crowns can be attached to a single post. The benefit of using fewer implants is that the surgery is less invasive and you will heal much more quickly. Further, there will be fewer implants to maintain. 

2. How Quickly Can Implants Be Placed?

Unlike fillings, which are done in a single visit, implants require a few dental visits. Your dentist will first assess your oral health to determine if implants are the right choice. They will then remove any teeth that are still in place that should be replaced with implants. You may also need minor surgeries to rebuild gum or bone tissue, depending on the state of their health. Finally, the implants themselves are placed and allowed to heal. The final visit is to put the crowns on the implants. The entire process can take a couple of months or longer to complete.

3. Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Not everyone is a good candidate for implants. Those that have suffered major bone loss may not have enough existing bone to properly support the implant. Health conditions that prevent quick healing can also make implants an unsuitable option. Your dentist will work closely with your physician if you have any contraindicating health conditions to determine whether implants are the right choice for you. 

4. Are Implants Removable?

Once in place, implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They can't be removed without surgery to do so, and there is no reason to remove them if they heal in place properly. The crowns that are placed on the implants, which have the look and feel of natural teeth, can sometimes suffer damage. In this case, your dentist will remove the old crowns and replace them with new ones. 

5. Is Special Care Necessary?

Some care is needed while the implants are still healing in place. For example, one should avoid smoking as it can inhibit proper healing. Keeping the mouth clean is also important in order to avoid infection. Once the implants are healed and the crowns are placed, you care for implants as you would natural teeth. This means brushing, flossing, and keeping up with regular dental visits. 

Contact a clinic like Dr Taylors Family Dental Center to learn more about dental implants and whether they are a good option for you.

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