Dental implants are the gold standard for modern tooth replacement in the United States. Even though today’s designs have been around for more than a couple of decades, most people still have a lot of questions about what’s involved. Here are some of the most frequent FAQs that we get at our DFW dental implant office.
Does it Hurt to Get Dental Implants?
No. Getting dental implants is a relatively minimally invasive procedure. Technically, straightforward cases only require a small amount of local anesthetic (numbing medication.) But if you require more advanced surgery, it’s normal to be sore for a couple of days afterward.
How Many Dental Implants Will I Need?
If you’re only replacing one tooth, you’ll only need one implant. For 3-4 teeth in a row, we can use a pair of implants (two total) for a fixed bridge. As far as a full-mouth restoration, as few as 4-6 dental implants are more than adequate for your entire upper or lower arch.
Are There Different Types of Dental Implants?
Yes. There are traditional, ceramic, mini, and zygomatic dental implants. But when most people talk about the types of dental implants, they’re usually asking about the restoration on top of them, such as a bridge, snap-on overdenture, or All-on-4. It’s important to do your research ahead of time.
Can I Get Sedation During Implant Treatment?
Absolutely. Dental treatment tends to make a lot of people uneasy anyway, so if you’re able to relax or essentially sleep through the process, it’s even better. Dental sedation allows you to tune everything out and basically wake up with your dental implants already placed.
Is There Such a Thing as an Implant Specialist?
Dental specialists are those experts who have an additional 2-3 years of specific training in a particular field of dentistry. When it comes to dental implants, oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists should be your experts of choice. Working with a specialist ensures a higher level of care, especially for difficult cases.
How Should I Choose an Implant Dentist?
Consider asking friends if they’ve used an implant dentist. Or, book a consultation with an implant specialist in your area to get a professional opinion. While you’re at it, be sure to read online reviews and check out before-and-after photos of cases they’ve completed. Second opinions never hurt, either.
What is the Recovery Time for Dental Implants Like?
Typically, your mouth needs at least a few months to “heal” as the dental implants integrate with your bone. That being said, you’ll probably only take a few days off from work at the most (or not at all.) Depending on your exact type of implant treatment, we can give you a good idea before the procedure is scheduled.
Will I Ever Have to Go With Missing Teeth?
No. There are safe ways to replace your teeth in a day, even if it means wearing a temporary healing prosthesis while your implants integrate. That way a few months later we can change your healing restoration out with a fixed one, and you never have to be seen with missing teeth.
How Quickly Can I Get Dental Implants?
Dental implant treatment should never be rushed. Placing teeth in a day doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting a fixed appliance; if it does, there is an extremely high risk of failure. Truth be told, it’s best to wear a healing overdenture and then get a fixed appliance once your implants fully integrate (about 3-6 months later.)
Are Implant Teeth Permanent or Removable?
Both. Some implant teeth are what we call fixed restorations and are permanently attached to the implant underneath. Crowns, bridges, and All-on-4 are perfect examples. And then there are snap-on removable dentures (overdentures) that you can take out at night.
How Much do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants is dependent on how many teeth are missing, which type of implant restoration you’re getting, and if any adjunctive services are needed (such as bone grafts, sinus lifts, etc.) Read more about dental implant costs HERE.
How Long do Dental Implants Last?
A well-maintained dental implant should theoretically last you the rest of your life. The key is to keep the gums and bone around them healthy. Good oral hygiene is essential. If anything needs to be updated at some point in the future, it would likely be the restoration that goes on top of your implant.
How Do I Clean My Dental Implants?
Dental implants need to be brushed and flossed each day. Investing in a water flosser and electric toothbrush can be quite helpful. Learn more about the specifics of how to clean dental implants HERE.
Are Dental Implants Expensive?
Some types of dental implants are more expensive than others. Thankfully there are also more middle-of-the-road implant options for people who need to work on a tighter budget. Being open with your implant provider will help you find a solution that fits your needs.
Can I Have All of My Teeth Pulled and Replaced with Dental Implants?
Typically, it’s best to try to preserve your natural teeth. But if your teeth are non-restorable or severely infected, it may be best to have them removed then replaced with something like implants or dentures.
What are Dental Implants Made From?
Most dental implants are made from titanium, which is a hypoallergenic and biocompatible metal that’s frequently used in joint replacements (and similar surgeries.) Titanium triggers new bone integration around it, which is what makes implant treatment so successful.
Can Dental Implants Get Infected?
Yes. Daily home care is essential to prevent the areas around your implant from getting infected. If redness or swelling develops, contact your implant dentist immediately.
Your DFW Implant Specialists
ARCHPOINT offers quality dental implant treatments in Dallas and Ft. Worth. If you’re looking for a team of skilled specialists who can tailor your care to fit your lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us today to schedule an exam with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help.
