Dental Implant FAQ
Many people have questions about dental implants and that’s completely understandable! Not everyone is familiar with the procedure or who stands to benefit which is why our West Columbus, OH, dental implant dentist is here to make sure patients are informed and able to make thoughtful decisions about their oral health.
Here are 10 of the most and their corresponding answers.
1. What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root and replace missing teeth. Through a natural process called osseointegration that occurs in the months after placement, the bone fuses to the implant. It isn’t until all has healed that an abutment (connector piece) is screwed into the implant and a porcelain crown is attached on top for a natural looking result.
Depending on what your smile needs, Dr. Gibson can speak with you about single-tooth replacement or replacing an entire arch of teeth using dental implants. The latter would be a hybrid approach combining dentures and implants for added stability.
2. What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Unlike dentures, dental implants don’t slip, eliminating the need for adhesives to stay secure. They function like normal teeth, not only when you smile, but also when you eat and speak. Additionally, due to the fact that they are surgically embedded in the mouth and not resting on top of the gums, they provide natural stimulation of the jawbone which in turn, prevents loss of that bone. Teeth surrounding the dental implant are also not altered prior to placement of the post.
3. How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Overall, the dental implant procedure has a 90-95% success rate for patients with good oral hygiene and health habits. Factors that can affect this percentage include infection, jawbone quality and quantity, smoking, attention paid to oral care, and certain medical conditions like diabetes. If you’re someone who leads a healthy life and either has a healthy jawbone to begin with or qualifies for a , you’re looking at a successful implant!
4. Are Dental Implants Better Than Dentures?
While dentures are still very much effective for many patients, dental implants often come out on top because of their ability to remain stable (no slipping or shifting) and prevent jawbone deterioration. Once you lose a tooth, your body will start to absorb the minerals in your jawbone to use elsewhere. A dental implant is essentially a prosthetic tooth root that exerts pressure on your jawbone. This pressure is what helps stop bone loss in your jaw and keeps facial collapse from happening.
Read More → Pros and Cons of Dentures vs. Dental Implants
5. How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary significantly from patient to patient due to several factors. Primarily, the number of teeth that need to be replaced plays a crucial role in determining the overall expense. Additionally, some patients may require a bone graft prior to dental implant placement, which can add to the total cost. This variability makes it important for individuals to sit down with Dr. Gibson for a one-on-one consultation. During this appointment, you will receive an accurate estimate tailored to their specific dental needs and conditions.
6. Who Can Receive Dental implants?
Dental implants are a great method of , but may not be for everyone. Dr. Gibson will evaluate your mouth with an oral exam and take time to discuss the implantation procedure with you should it prove to be the most effective solution. If it turns out that a non-surgical option would suit you better, we can explore traditional dentures as well.
Generally, dental implants may work for you if you have:
- Teeth missing due to extraction or trauma
- A jawbone that’s fully grown
- Plenty of bone to properly secure the implants or qualify for a bone graft
- No health conditions that will interfere with bone healing
- The desire to improve your speech
- No habit associated with tobacco products
- Time to commit several months to the healing and placement process
7. Are There Any Age Limitations?
Yes. As mentioned above, it’s best to wait until the jawbone has completely developed which generally means that patients are eligible once they’ve reached early adulthood. With this said, mature adults of any age can receive dental implants.
8. Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?
No. During the surgery, there should be NO pain whatsoever. Generally, most implant procedures can be tolerated very well just with local anesthetic. However, dental sedation may also be requested to alleviate anxiety. Following surgery, the discomfort will be similar to that experienced after a simple tooth extraction. Pain relievers along with anti-inflammatory medication will be prescribed and should keep you comfortable after surgery.
9. Will My Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
Many insurance plans provide partial coverage for dental implants. While coverage tends to be minimal, the investment may last a lifetime. Benefits can be discussed at your consultation appointment, along with payment or financing options.
10. How Can I Take Care of My Implants?
Aside from exams and teeth cleanings every 6 months, proper daily oral hygiene goes a long way. Care for your implants the same way you would your natural teeth—by brushing twice a day and flossing once daily.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
Our dental implant dentist serving Columbus, OH, is here to answer any additional questions that you may have regarding the procedure and can help you take the next step towards smile restoration. Call Gibson Dental today at (614) 878-9562 to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.