Important Dental Implant Questions
|December 31, 2015
You probably have many dental implant questions to ask before you decide that dental implants are right for you, such as will they hurt and how much do they cost. While it’s important to speak with your La Jolla dentist to answer all your concerns, here are five questions that people often ask.
Dental Implant Questions: What are dental implants?
Simply put, dental implants are titanium posts that act as an artificial tooth root. They provide a fixed support to dental crowns (a prosthetic tooth) and prevent jawbone resorption. They look and function more like your natural teeth than any other tooth replacement option.
Dental Implant Questions: Are dental implants right for me?
For the most part, as long as you are healthy and able to undergo oral surgery, you are a candidate for dental implants. However, as your San Diego dentist will explain, there are very specific standards that make you a better candidate.
First, you need to have disease-free gums and a healthy jawbone, no periodontitis. Next, you should have good oral hygiene habits including daily flossing and brushing as well as regular dental visits. You’ll need to continue to care for your dental implants.
Finally, it’s better if you’re a non-smoker and don’t suffer from chronic ailments such as diabetes or heart disease. People who smoke or have persistent illness are more subject to dental implant failure.
Dental Implant Questions: Are dental implants safe?
Absolutely. In use for over 30 years, dental implants are made of biocompatible titanium. They are stronger than your natural teeth once osseointegration is complete. Osseointegration is the “firm anchoring” that occurs when the bone fuses to the implant.
Additionally, dental implant surgery is safe and predictable when performed by an experienced dental professional. Speak with your La Jolla dentist if you have any concerns.
Dental Implant Questions: What should I expect from the dental implant process?
Before your San Diego dentist starts the dental implant process, make sure you understand what is involved. Briefly:
- Your dentist removes any damaged teeth
- Your dentist prepares your jawbone for surgery, which may include bone grafting
- Your dentist places metal posts (implants) in your jawbone
- Your jawbone heals and fuses around the posts
- Your dentist adds an abutment to the implant to hold the artificial tooth (crown)
The entire process generally takes several months to complete. Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions throughout the entire process.
Dental Implant Questions: How do I care for dental implants?
You take care of dental implants just as you would your natural teeth: floss, brush, and visit your La Jolla dentist on a regular basis. However, as we mentioned in our previous blog, take extra care with dental implants. You want them to last a lifetime.
If you have Dental Implant Questions, be sure to speak with your San Diego dentist.