Dental implants are the preferred choice of many people who are seeking to replace teeth that have been lost or extracted due to severe damage or decay. They are also increasingly used as an alternative to traditional dentures.

If you haven’t come across dental implants before, you probably need more information to find out if they are right for you. To help you out, we’ve put together this list of dental implant FAQs.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a fairly new and innovative approach to replacing missing teeth. They have three parts:

• a post/screw that is made from titanium and that is surgically implanted into the jawbone
• a bespoke crown, usually made from porcelain or porcelain fused to meal
• a connector that attaches the two

Implants are different to other tooth replacement solutions because they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support. Instead, they are anchored into the jaw itself. When the posts/screws are implanted into the bone of the jaw, the bone heals around them to secure them permanently in place. Once properly healed, the bespoke crown can be made and connected to the post/screw to complete the restoration.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Before you can get dental implants, you’ll need to have a consultation with an implant dentist to make sure that they are the best restoration for your needs. Typically, people who are good candidate for dental implants have a number of things in common:

• good general and oral health
• no outstanding dental work
• sufficient healthy bone in their jaw to support the implant posts
• healthy gums with no sign of gum disease
• a commitment to maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine
• not smoking
• not pregnant or nursing
• do not have any uncontrolled medical conditions, alcohol or substance abuse problems or a suppressed immune system
• are over the age of 18

How many teeth can dental implants replace?

Dental implant technology is very versatile and can be applied in a variety of situations. Many patients have a single tooth implanted, but in fact, the technology can be used to support bridges, partial and even full dentures. The number of implant posts needed will vary depending on how many teeth you are replacing, but typically a bridge can be supported on two implant posts, a partial denture on three or four, and, for a full denture anywhere from four to eight implant posts will be needed.

Will other people be able to tell that I’ve had a dental implant?

One of the best things about dental implants is that they are so discreet. No reliance on neighboring teeth means that there are no visible brackets, wires or other attachments. The bespoke crown is also designed specifically in the size, shape and color needed to match your existing teeth and blend in seamlessly. This makes dental implants one of the most discreet and natural of any tooth replacement solution.

Can I eat when wearing dental implants?

Dental implants are permanent, which means that they can’t be removed for eating. However, since they are secured permanently into the jaw, you also don’t have to worry about them pulling out or moving around in your mouth when you eat, drink, laugh, sneeze or, well anything really!

Does getting dental implants hurt?

Implants are surgically placed into the jaw. This means that you will need to have a local anesthetic to help manage your discomfort. In some cases, it may be possible to have sedation too. Please speak to your dental implant provider for more information.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are considered to be the most durable and long-lasting of all tooth replacement restorations. With the right care at home, and regular visits to your dentist, you can expect your implants to last several decades or more.

How quickly can I get dental implants?

We understand that most people want to replace their missing teeth as quickly as possible. The process of getting dental implants can take a number of months, since you’ll need to allow time for the jawbone to heal around your dental implant posts. In most instances, patients should allow 4-6 months for their dental implant process to be complete. However, some implant providers do offer a same or next day implant service. You must meet very strict criteria to be able to benefit from this service, which is slightly different and more expensive than regular dental implants.

If you would like more information about dental implants, visit Weston Center for Plastic Surgery in Weston, Florida. You can also call us at 954-507-6441 to schedule an appointment.