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Health & Fitness

Dental Implant FAQs

Why you shouldn't fear dental implants.

What are dental implants? Dental implants are natural-looking replacements for missing teeth that provide the same function as your natural tooth root. The implant is a small, sturdy, titanium post that is placed into your upper or lower jaw bone. The jaw bone is then allowed to grow around the implant. Once the jaw bone has grown the implant holds a crown, bridge, or denture, imitating how a root holds a natural tooth in place. 

Does it hurt? Nope! Dental implants require no cutting or stitching and have little to no post-operative discomfort. You are numbed up during the procedure and feel no pain at all. Afterward most patients do not experience any swelling and do not require any pain medication besides OTC ibuprofen. 

Why bother replacing missing teeth? A tooth should be replaced as soon as it is lost. This prevents bone loss, reduces movement of surrounding teeth and avoids excess decay. Teeth are necessary for the health of the gum and jaw tissues and a prolonged absence of a tooth will severely limit the possibilities for restorations and cause various health problems including jawbone deterioration. 

Can dental implants be used to replace mulitple teeth? Dental implants may be used to replace individual teeth, multiple teeth, or all your teeth in one or both arches.

Will my insurance cover the cost of an implant? Dental implant treatment may qualify for some insurance coverage, but is generally limited to the coverage provided for a bridge or partial denture. It is important that you check with your insurance carrier to find out what they provide.

Do dental implants require extra care? Implanted teeth need to be brushed and cared for just like your natural teeth, including periodic cleanings with your dentist.

Are there age limitations on dental implants? No, age is not a factor for dental implant success. Patients of all ages are welcome to come in for a consultation. 

What are the benefits of dental implants? Since implants are fixed in place, they look and feel like natural teeth. Implants prevent bone-loss in the area of the missing teeth, preventing that sunken-in look of old age. Unlike bridges, implants avoid damage to surrounding healthy teeth. 

How long do dental implants last? A lifetime! As long as you care for your teeth your implant will never need to be replaced! 

Are implants right for me? Almost everyone who has lost one tooth, many teeth, or even their entire set of teeth is a canidate for dental implants. Dental implants are the most advanced way to replace missing teeth and surpass the technologies of dental crowns, bridges, and partial and full dentures. Dental implants are very natural in appearance and are the best alternative to your original teeth!

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