Do You Have Questions About Dental Implants?

Losing your teeth can be an embarrassing problem. You may be tempted to hide your smile, but instead you should talk to a dentist. We can help replace a lost tooth with a lifelike prosthetic. Do you have questions about dental implants? How are they placed?

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Question: Who qualifies for one?

Answer: First, you need to have lost one or more teeth. One you lose a tooth we can examine your smile to see if this is the best choice for replacing the tooth. We will first make sure you have enough jawbone tissue to support the implant. We will also look at the health of your gums. If you have advanced gum disease, then you may need treatment first as periodontitis can lead to implant failure.

Question: What does placement involve?

Answer: An oral surgeon will insert the implant post into the jawbone. The jawbone tissue and implant post will then bond over a period of three to six months. We will then add an abutment of the post, which holds a dental crown in place. The lifelike and custom-made dental crown replaces the visible portion of the tooth and blends with the rest of the smile.

Question: How do I maintain my new tooth?

Answer: You will care for this tooth as you would a natural one. We suggest brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. We urge you to avoid tobacco products and to schedule a visit for checkups and cleanings once every six months.

Question: What happens if a missing tooth isn’t replaced?

Answer: Without replacement, the body will register a lack of a tooth root an stop supplying the surrounding jawbone with doses of calcium and phosphorus, causing the bone tissue to dissolve and leading to a greater risk of further tooth loss. In addition, misalignment can occur as the teeth drift from their positions due to the gap in the smile.