Fast Facts About Dental Implants

Dental implants are used to support one (or more) false teeth. A dental implant is made of titanium screw and is used to replace the root of the tooth when it fails. Just like the tooth root, dental implants are placed surgically into the jawbone. 

The dental implant procedure is considered a well-established and safe treatment. If you are considering getting dental implants, below are some of the fast facts you need to know:

Fast Fact #01: Just like the natural teeth, dental implants can last for a really long time as long as they are looked after accordingly.

There are two factors that will have the biggest impact on the longevity of your dental implants—how well you look after them and whether you go for regular maintenance appointments.

If you don’t look after your implants accordingly, they will develop some coating that’s similar to what you get when you neglect your natural teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to bleeding, gum infection, soreness, and general discomfort. 

If your implants are looked after accordingly and provided the bone they are fitted to is healthy and strong, you can expect your dental implants to last for a very long time. However, just like other surgical implants, there is no lifetime guarantee.

Fast Fact #02: Dental implants will not always be used to replace missing teeth.

Whether you are considered a good candidate for dental implants or not will depend on some key factors. However, one of the main factors is the condition of the bone in the jaw. If you are considering dental implants, some special tests will be carried out to determine the amount of bone available. 

If the bone remaining is not sufficient or healthy enough to support the implants, it might not be possible to place the dental implants without grafting bone into the area first.

Fast Fact #03: Contrary to popular belief, getting dental implants is not painful.

This might come as a surprise to many but getting dental implants is easier than getting your tooth extracted. The dental implant procedure is often carried out using a local anesthetic. However, while you won’t feel any pain during the procedure, you might feel a little soreness or discomfort a few days following the dental implant procedure.

Sometimes, your dentist might also give you a sedative if you feel anxious about the procedure or if your case is complex one. General anesthetics however are rarely used for dental implants. Typically, they are only used for complicated cases.

Fast Fact #04: Your dental team can provide a rough timetable for the procedure.

Some false teeth can now be fitted at the same time as the implants (this is referred to as immediate implants). All you need to do is check with your dentist to see if it is an option that’s right for your case.

Typically, false teeth are fitted at least 3 to 4 months after the dental implants have been placed. However, there are instances when treatment can take longer. Fortunately, your dentist will be able to give you a rough estimate.

Fast Fact #05: Looking after your dental implants is easy.

Your dental team will also be able to give you detailed instructions on what you need to do to look after your dental implants. You might also be prescribed some painkillers after the procedure if you experience pain, discomfort, and soreness.

Fortunately, looking after your dental implants is as easy as can be. Looking after your dental implants is no different than looking after your natural teeth. You will be given guidance on how to clean areas that are hard to reach. Looking after your dental implants accordingly is important if you want it to last for a very long time.