Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
What Are Dental Implants?
When you lose a tooth or need to replace a damaged tooth, a dental implant is often the best way to restore your smile and make it healthy and strong again.
The job of an implant is to replace the missing tooth root and hold a new artificial tooth in place. Implants also help reduce bone loss in your jaw and restore your ability to chew and speak normally.
How can I tell if I need a dental implant?
Look for these signs:
You're missing one or more teeth.
You have a tooth that's badly damaged and can't be saved.
Your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable.
You have trouble chewing food.
You feel embarrassed about gaps in your smile.
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to call us so a dentist can check your mouth and see if implants are right for you.
Does it hurt to get a dental implant?
We want you to be comfortable! We use a special numbing medicine called a local anesthetic to make the area completely numb before we start.
That means you should feel very little or no pain while our dental team is placing your implant. After the procedure, you might feel some soreness, but we'll give you instructions to help you feel better quickly.
How long does a dental implant last?
Dental implants are built to last a very long time! With good care, they can last 15 to 25 years or even your whole lifetime.
The crown (the tooth part on top) might need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years because of normal wear, but the implant post in your jawbone usually stays strong for life.
A note about your implant: If you ever feel like your implant tooth is loose, or if you feel any new pain around it, please contact our dental team right away! We can check your implant to make sure everything is healthy and secure.
Can dental implants fall out?
It's very rare, but sometimes implants can fail if they don't fuse properly with your jawbone or if gum disease develops around them. Coming in for your regular check-ups lets us look closely at your implants to make sure they stay healthy and secure.
Good daily brushing and flossing help your implant stay in place for many years!
Are dental implants better than dentures or bridges?
Dental implants have many benefits! They look and feel just like natural teeth. They don't slip or move when you talk or eat. They also help keep your jawbone strong and healthy.
Unlike bridges, implants don't require us to change your other healthy teeth. They're a permanent solution that can last your whole life with proper care.