If you are missing one or many of your teeth, you need to think of replacement sooner than later. Losing teeth to cavities, failed root canal treatments, injury, or decay can have severe implications. Besides the immediate impact on biting and chewing abilities, you may even have to deal with speech issues and sagging facial structure. If you talk to your dentist in Cotswold, Charlotte, NC, they usually offer options like dental implants, dentures, and bridges. In this post, we are discussing more about dental implants through questions commonly asked by patients.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant works like an artificial tooth root. It is made of titanium and placed inside the jawbone or above it, to work as a base for replacement teeth. The implant is also called the “post”. An abutment is screwed to the implant and works as a connector for attaching a replacement tooth.
Am I the ideal candidate for dental implants?
Your dentist can answer the question better based on an oral exam, advanced scans, and X-rays. In general, dental implants are ideal for most patients, and there are seniors over 85 who have achieved successful outcomes with the procedure. Patients who have heart disease, diabetes, or are heavy smokers may not qualify for the treatment.
My dentist says I need bone grafting before getting implants. Why?
Immediately after a tooth is extracted, there is a rapid decline in bone mass in the jawbone. If you wait for too long to discuss dental implants or talk about treatment, you may need bone grafting to ensure there is enough bone mass to hold the implants in place. The procedure involves surgery and is often necessary for seniors or people who have lost natural teeth many years before.
What is the procedure for getting dental implants?
If you don’t need bone grafting, your dentist can go ahead with the implant surgery. They will first check your mouth and take scans, following which they will determine how many implants you need. During the surgery, they will use local anesthesia, but if you want to consider sedation, you can discuss the option. The implant is placed inside the jawbone (sometimes above it), and as the surgery site heals, the implant is secured in place.
When can I get replacement teeth?
It depends on how quickly the surgery site heals. Generally, it can take 12 weeks or more for the jawbone to heal and secure the implant. Afterward, your dentist will again do a complete oral exam and decide whether you can get replacement teeth immediately. 
Does getting dental implants hurt?
Getting dental implants is not more painful than root canal therapy or having a tooth extracted. In most cases, patients are allowed to choose options like IV sedation, which makes them feel comfortable during the surgery. Local anesthesia will ensure you don’t feel anything.
Are dental implants expensive?
If you compare dental implants to regular dentures or crowns, the treatment is expensive, but think of the long term. The outcomes with implants can last a lifetime, and these posts don’t have to be replaced. Your restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures, can also last a decade or more. While the upfront costs are higher, dental implants are cost-effective.
How long does the surgery take?
Each patient’s case is unique, and there are several factors that determine the surgery time for dental implants. In general, getting one implant doesn’t take more than an hour. Some surgeries are more complex than others.
If you have other specific questions or want to go for a comprehensive exam to know if dental implants are right for you, meet your dentist in Cotswold soon.
