3 FAQs About Dental Implants

If you’re considering your replacement tooth options, you probably know that dental implants are one of the choices that you should research. But how much do you really know about dental implants? Dental implants aren’t as well known as other common tooth replacements like dentures. This lack of knowledge can sometimes lead patients to dismiss dental implants as an option, which is a shame because they are one of the best possible tooth replacement options. Here are some frequently asked questions about dental implants that can help you determine if they’re right for you.

I Need Multiple Teeth Replaced. Won’t Dental Implants Be Too Expensive?

One thing that many patients don’t realize is that multiple tooth implants are held in place with an implant post. If you have several missing teeth, your dentist will not need to place an implant post for each tooth. In fact, even if you’re missing many or all of your teeth, with a procedure called All-on-4, your dentist can replace an entire upper or lower arch in a single day. The All-on-4 procedure allows for posts to be placed at an angle, which means the procedure can be used even if the patient has already lost bone in their jaw.

Will Dental Implants Hurt? 

It’s normal to be concerned about pain during any surgery, and patients often have extra anxiety when it comes to dental surgery. However, there are a variety of methods that your dentist can use to keep you comfortable during your dental implant surgery, ranging from local anesthesia to sedation or general anesthesia. Most patients report feeling little or no discomfort during the procedure. That said, it’s important to talk to your dentist about your anxieties, pain thresholds, and previous surgical experiences so that they can help determine the right level of pain management for you.

After your dental implants heal, you’ll be able to smile without fear that anyone will notice the implants.

After the surgery, you may feel some soreness. However, you and your dentist will discuss and agree on pain management for your healing period beforehand, so you should have pain relief available. Your dentist will follow up with your shortly after your surgery to check for any signs of complications.

Will It Be Obvious That I Have Dental Implants?

After your dental implants heal, you’ll be able to smile without fear that anyone will notice the implants. 

In a word: No! One of the benefits of dental implants is that they blend right in with your natural teeth (and unlike dentures, won’t slip or slide in your mouth, revealing themselves.) Your dentist will create dental implants that match the color and shape of your natural teeth, so no one other than you or your dentist will know which teeth are the implants.

If you want to know more about dental implants, your best bet is to meet with your dentist to discuss your options. Contact us to schedule a consultation.