If you’re considering undergoing any kind of cosmetic dentistry procedure, you need all the facts before you can decide if it’s the right treatment for you. Dental implants are not new to dentistry, but it is an area that has seen rapid growth in recent years, thanks to the high success rate, the longevity of the implant and the immediate effect it has on patients who have had problems with their bite or jaw strength. If you’re thinking about this treatment for yourself, find out more about what you should ask your dentist before getting dental implants.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a metal post, normally made from titanium, that is surgically inserted into the jawbone in place of an actual tooth root, which then allows your dentist to mount a replacement tooth on top of it. Although it’s totally artificial, it is the most natural looking alternative when you have lost a tooth.
Who can get dental implants?
Suitability for dental implants will be determined by your dentist after an assessment, but as a general guide they are suitable for people who have a missing tooth or multiple teeth missing anywhere in their mouth, or under complete denture sets, as this massively improves the fit, comfort and chewing ability of the wearer.
Can dental implants fail?
There’s always a small chance of the surgery not being successful, however dental implants have extremely high success rates and patient satisfaction ratings – in fact, 95% of implants still function well after 20 years. Causes for dental implant failure include a loss of bone support for the post and teeth grinding which can loosen the implant. If you have any concerns about this, talk to us and we’ll answer any concerns you might have.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are completely safe, and will cause no damage to the surrounding teeth once fitted.
Will dental implants look like the rest of my teeth?
This is one of the reasons why dental implants are so popular – they both look and feel like your own teeth, so you can be totally confident that once you have your implants in place, your smile will look completely natural. In most cases no one will know you have an implant unless you specifically tell them.
How long will it take to recover from dental implant surgery?
After your surgery, you need to allow your mouth time to heal and for the implant to successfully fuse with the bone in your jaw to make it a stable anchor before the artificial tooth is put in place. There might be some gum discomfort during this time. This period normally takes between 8-12 weeks, but the end result can last for up to 20 years if you care properly for your teeth and have bi-annual check-ups.
What kind of upkeep do I need to do with dental implants?
Look after your dental implants the same way you look after the rest of your teeth – with daily brushing and flossing, and with regular check-ups. Your implants won’t decay like the rest of your teeth, but you need to keep your gums healthy so that your implants continue to have a stable base to support the artificial tooth.
If you have any other questions about dental implants, feel free to get in touch with us using our online enquiry form.
