Frequently Asked Dental Implant Questions Answered
Have you recently encountered tooth loss? It can be a challenging experience that not only affects your smile’s appearance, but hinders your dental function and self-confidence. To make matters worse, the tooth replacement options can seem endless. You may be wondering, “How do I know which one is best?” Rest assured, this is a completely normal reaction. But the great news is, there are dental professionals ready and available to help you make the best decision for your smile.
Although dental bridges and dentures are viable options, in more recent years, dental implants have become the preferred tooth replacement method for many great reasons. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, but have a long list of questions, Dr. Eshom answers some of the more frequently asked ones down below.
To book your dental implants consultation, contact our San Diego, CA office online or give us a call at (858) 455-9151.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants look a lot like tiny screws and are intended to function like your former tooth roots. They are inserted directly into the jaw and once they bond with surrounding tissues are able to support a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. The type of implant-retained device will depend on the level of tooth loss.
Are Dental Implants Noticeable?
The short answer is “no.” Because dental implants are inserted below the gum line directly into the jawbone, once an implant-supported restoration is attached, the implants are unable to be seen.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Implants offer many great benefits compared to traditional restorations. Perhaps one of the greatest benefits is their longevity. When properly cared for, implants are designed to last a lifetime. Since they function like natural tooth roots, they promote healthy nerve stimulation each time you bite or chew to counteract bone loss. Traditional restorations typically need to be replaced every few years and because they are supported by nearby teeth or gums, can lead to bone degeneration, jaw pain, and facial structural changes.
Another great benefit is their natural-looking aesthetics. Your implant restoration will be manufactured from realistic materials in order to provide lifelike results. Unless you make it known, people will be unaware you are wearing an implant-supported restoration.
Are Dental Implants Useful for Complete Tooth Loss?
Implants can replace a single missing tooth or a complete arch of teeth. In most cases, it only takes about four to six strategically placed dental implants to support a denture in the upper or lower jaw.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Thanks to sedation dentistry, patients can expect a relaxing and comfortable dental implant surgery. Depending on the level of your anxiety, or if you have trouble numbing, Dr. Eshom will combine local anesthesia with either IV sedation or general anesthesia. It typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to insert one dental implant. Multiple implants can take up to three to four hours.
How Long Does the Recovery Take?
In most cases, it takes about four to six months for the implant posts to bond with your jawbone. Dr. Eshom will monitor your recovery through a series of follow-up appointments. The success rate of your implants is dependent on accurate placement and complete integration with surrounding tissues. Because of this, it’s important to choose an experienced implant dentist and to follow your recovery instructions as directed
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants is dependent on a variety of factors, including:
- The doctor’s experience
- The type and number of implants
- The type of restoration
- Preliminary procedures (bone grafting or sinus lift)
To make treatment more feasible, we partner with Dental Fee Plan to provide patients with affordable monthly payment plans with either low or zero percent interest.
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, please contact our San Diego, CA dental office today online or by calling (858) 455-9151.
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