At Brewer Dental Center, we receive a lot of questions about dental implants from our patients and people who are looking for a dentist to provide needed care.
We tell them that implants are a common option for replacing their missing teeth. Implants offer a more permanent solution than bridgework and removable dentures that rest on the gum line.
Artificial teeth look very real and are surgically implanted into the jaw. These implanted, artificial teeth function just like real thing. Patients don’t notice a difference and are happy to have the gap filled in.
Here are the Top 5 FAQs we hear:
Question: What are the benefits of dental implants?
Answer: There are many benefits to dental implants but the most common ones we see include:
- It is easier to eat. Since dental implants are fused into your jaw, they work just like regular teeth. The other teeth are not affected. When you have a tooth-supported bridge, the healthy teeth nearby have to be reduced to support the replacement teeth
- Your smile improves. Dental implants look and feel just like real teeth. They appear more natural than dentures. Eventually, you won’t even notice that you have implants.
- You speak more clearly. Dentures can become loose and slip in your mouth, which makes talking clearly very difficult. Dental implants, on the other hand, replace your teeth without requiring any sort of daily adjustments.
- They feel natural. Once you’re used to the feel of your new dental implants, they are naturally a part of you!
Q: What is the procedure like?
A: Dental implants are placed in the jawbone, where they replace the roots of the missing teeth. Implants contain titanium that fuses with the jawbone. Once fusion occurs, the implants do not slip or make noise. The surgery procedure depends on the type of implant that is selected (there are many kinds) as well as the condition of the jaw.
Q: Who should get dental implants?
A: Dental implants are the best option for people:
- Having more than one missing tooth
- Having a jawbone that has reached full growth
- Having ample amounts of bone to secure the implant
- Having healthy oral tissues
- Being unwilling or unable to wear dentures
Q: Are dental implants safe?
A: Dental implants do not cause any damage to the bone and the material used for are safe and do not cause decay. Still, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, should check with their health care provider prior to having dental implant surgery. Implant surgery is not recommended for children because their jaws are not fully grown.
Q: What are the risks and side effects associated with dental implant surgery?
A: Complications are relatively rare and when they do occur they are generally mild, requiring minimal treatment. Possible health risks associated with dental implant surgery include:
- Infection occurring at the implant site
- Damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels
- Nerve damage
- Pain
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Sinus problems
Minor side effects of dental implant surgery include:
- Swelling of the gums
- Swelling of the face
- Pain at implant site
- Bleeding
These side effects are relatively mild and often improve shortly. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or pain medications. You will be instructed to eat only soft foods for up to one week. Self-dissolving stitches are typically used.
The team at Brewer Dental Center is eager to answer all your questions about dental implants. Please call us at (406) 656-6100 and start your journey to better oral health.