Dental Implant FAQs

Tooth loss is a huge issue faced by millions of adults around the world. While there are many tooth replacement solutions out there, dental implants are considered to be the top choice for permanent tooth replacement.

If you’re missing one or more teeth and are planning to get implants, you may have some questions.

What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small metal post made out of titanium that is surgically placed into your jawbone to mimic a tooth root. Since the implant is biocompatible, it binds with your jawbone over a period of time through a process known as osseointegration. This process strengthens the foundation, creating a strong place for the artificial tooth.

Does A Missing Tooth Need To Be Replaced?

A missing tooth can, without a doubt, dampen the appearance of your smile and lower your self-confidence. However, aesthetic reasons aside, a missing tooth impacts the functionality of one’s mouth, including the way one speaks or chews. Also, long-term tooth loss also causes severe jawbone loss and the shifting of adjacent teeth, leading to a sunken facial structure.

How Do Implants Work?

A dental implant is surgically placed into the area of the missing teeth and is left to merge with the jawbone through a process known as osseointegration. A connector, known as an abutment, is then placed on top of the implant, which is connected to a customized natural-looking replacement tooth. Since the implant is surgically embedded and bound to the jawbone, it looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth.

Who Is A Candidate For Implants?

Anyone with missing teeth can get dental implants. The ideal candidate for implants must be in good health overall since they will have to undergo surgery. Another condition to become qualified as a candidate for implants is to have healthy gums that are free of periodontal disease and are in good overall shape.

Are Implants Safe?

Dental implants are extremely safe. In fact, the dental implant placement procedure is one of the safest dental procedures that one can get.

What Are The Benefits Of Implants?

An implant helps restore the appearance and aesthetics of your smile by replacing your missing tooth with a custom-made natural-looking replacement tooth. Since an implant is anchored to your jawbone, it becomes a permanent part of your existing teeth, allowing you to talk, bite, and chew normally. Apart from this, implants provide your jawbone with stimulation, preventing the loss of jawbone mass. Additionally, since implants are usually made of titanium, they aren’t susceptible to dental decay.

What Are Some Popular Implant Materials?

Titanium is the most popular dental implant material as it is highly biocompatible, which is necessary for the process of osseointegration.

What Does Implant Care Entail?

Caring for your implants is very similar to caring for your natural teeth. You will need to brush your teeth regularly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, and floss at least twice a day. Apart from this, you can use mouthwash and an irrigator for a more elaborate routine. Also, regular dental visits are also important for implant health.