Here at Piedmont Oaks Dental, we get a lot of questions from patients when it comes to the dental implant process. Here are some helpful FAQs to peruse, and as always, if you don’t see your question listed here, feel free to give us a call.
First, what are dental implants? These are artificial structures that are inserted into your jawbone to replace a lost tooth or teeth, whether you lost them after an injury or due to disease. Custom dental implants can act as an anchor to secure an artificial tooth. Once that’s done, a crown can be attached to match the natural tooth color.
Because they’re designed to restore oral health and function, dental implants fall under the umbrella of restorative dentistry.
Top FAQs We Get
Q: What are dental implants?
A: A dental implant comprises a small post made out of titanium, which is then inserted in the jaw bone to act as a substitute for the tooth root. On top, an abutment will be placed to connect it to your replacement tooth. A crown, which is basically a replacement tooth, will be custom made by your dentist to fit your tooth and match the natural color.
Q: Do implants hurt?
A: While the procedure itself is not painful (you’ll get local anesthesia to keep you comfortable), you may experience discomfort when asked to keep your mouth wide open for the duration of the procedure. Your dentist will give you post-op instructions to follow at home, so with the proper care, you won’t feel any discomfort later on. Dental implant surgery is actually minimally disruptive and quick.
Q: What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures?
A: Dentures are essentially removable artificial teeth. Dental implants are more comfortable and natural, have a lower risk of cavity development in nearby teeth, have a higher success rate, are easier to maintain, and improve chewing function. Plus, there are no dentures to take in and out daily to clean and sleep.
Q: Are there any disadvantages of dental implants?
A: Infection, pain, and inflammation are always a risk, as with any minor oral surgical procedure.
Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: It takes less than an hour for a single tooth implant, and between two and four hours for more complex procedures involving more teeth. Your dentist can give you a more accurate estimate when you go in for your initial consultation.
Q: Will insurance cover dental implants?
A: The answer is, sometimes. It has a lot to do with whether the insurance company views dental implants as a cosmetic procedure or a restorative dentistry procedure. Most times, insurance will pay for part of the cost, meaning you will have to pay out of pocket for the rest. We will discuss any insurance-related questions you have at the time of your consultation.
Q: Can children get dental implants?
A: Yes. In fact, dental implants can be a smart long-term solution for kids who lost their permanent teeth due to accident or injury. You will need to have a consultation with a dental implant expert as soon as you can after the incident. Many dentists will wait until the child’s facial development is complete – usually age 16 for girls and 18 for boys.
Q: How can I care for my dental implants?
A: Care for them just as you would with your natural teeth, which means brush and floss regularly and see your dentist twice a year for cleanings. Well-placed dental implants can last decades.
Q: How long can dental implants last?
A: With proper care, dental implants can last up to 25 years or more. This is all thanks to advanced technology and the use of high-quality materials. Just be sure to keep up with your regular oral routine: brush and floss, and never skip your twice-yearly cleanings.
Q: Do I have to take time off work to get dental implants?
A: Most people take at least a half a day off from work or school to get implants. But how long you will need to recover will depend on the type of sedation used, your overall health, and how many teeth the procedure involved. For more complex cases, you may have to stay out of work for a couple of days. Because everyone’s response is different, your dentist will let you know what to expect.
Q: How do I know if I’m a good candidate for implants?
A: The only way to be certain is to sit down for a consultation with your dentist. He or she will give you a full oral exam (including x-rays) to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Schedule Your Dental Implants Consultation at Piedmont Oaks Dental Today.
We hope these FAQs addressed your concerns about dental implants. To learn more about dental implants and if you’re a good candidate, book your appointment with us at (510) 654-6523. We are located at 1345 Grand Ave. Suite 103 in Piedmont, CA and our hours are Mon – Thu 8am to 5pm and Fridays 8am to 1pm.