Dental Implants FAQs
Do you have questions about the dental implant procedure? You’re not alone. Many of our patients are interested in how dental implants can replace missing teeth and improve oral health. Continue reading to browse our list of frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our dentists in Naples,FL.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant serves as an artificial root for a replacement tooth. It's a small post, usually made from titanium, which gets inserted into your jawbone. Think of it as a sturdy anchor for your new tooth!
Your dentist might suggest getting a dental implant if you've lost a tooth. It's different from dentures because, instead of just resting on your gums, an implant is secured into your jaw. This gives you the stability you need to chew, talk, and smile confidently.
Now, it's important to remember that the dental implant itself isn't the replacement tooth. It's a part of a three-piece set that works together to replace your missing tooth. Here's how it works:
- Dental Implant: This is the titanium post that is inserted into your jawbone. It takes the place of your missing tooth's root.
- Abutment: This is a separate piece that is attached to the dental implant once it has bonded, or integrated, with your jawbone. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth.
- Artificial Tooth: This is the part that looks like a tooth. It could be a crown (a single replacement tooth), a bridge, or part of a denture. This is what gets attached to the implant and abutment.
So, in summary, a "dental implant tooth" consists of three parts: the dental implant, the abutment, and the artificial tooth. This system lets dentists replace your missing tooth with a prosthesis that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. Remember this when you see advertisements for $399 dental implants. They never include all three components and is a way for unethical dentists to advertise to get you to the office.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
To be a candidate for the dental implant procedure, you must have sufficient bone density in your jaw. Otherwise, you won’t have enough bone tissue to support your implants and keep them stable. However, your dentist can recommend a bone graft to make you a candidate for the dental implant procedure.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants are stable because they’re embedded in your jawbone. Many of our patients appreciate that they’re able to continue eating their favorite foods after the dental implant process. While dentures slip, dental implants always stay in place.
Your jawbone needs constant pressure from tooth roots to stay healthy. Otherwise, the body will sense the absence of teeth and reabsorb the minerals in your jaw to use elsewhere. Over time, the jawbone deteriorates until you experience facial collapse.
Facial collapse makes your profile look shrunken and can make you look older than your chronological age. Fortunately, dental implants act like natural tooth roots to prevent jawbone deterioration and facial collapse.
What Can I Expect from the Dental Implant Process?
Once the oral surgeon approves you for the dental implant procedure, you’ll schedule an appointment with their office to place the implant in your jaw. Over the next several months, the implant will fuse to the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, your progress will be monitored to ensure the implant makes a strong connection.
When the implant has completely fused to the jawbone, you’ll return to our office where one of our dentists will place a dental crown restoration over top. This will give you the complete look and function of a natural tooth.
Can I Get More than One Tooth Implant?
Of course! Many patients replace more than one tooth at once so they can smile with confidence after the dental implant process. If you have several missing teeth, ask your dentist if you’re a candidate for the dental implant procedure. Dental implants are preferable to partial dentures because they don’t slip while you chew, talk, or smile.
How Do I Care for Dental Implants?
Take care of your dental implants like you would natural teeth. This means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily. If we find a lot of plaque and tartar buildup during your next appointment, we may recommend a fluoride mouthwash. We are always happy to answer any questions you might have about your oral health during your next appointment with us.
