If you are considering having dental implants, you certainly have a lot of questions that you would like to ask. We have put everything together in the dental implant FAQ list, in the view of clarifying your doubts.

Dental implants are considered as one of the best tooth replacement options available. Listed below are a few of the most commonly asked questions about implants. Hope it helps you in making the right decision for your good oral health.

1. What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is used to replace teeth and consists of three parts namely, a titanium screw that is surgically inserted within the bone, an abutment that is attached to the screw part, and a crown (artificial tooth) that is fixed to the abutment.

2. Why is dental implant an excellent tooth replacement option?

Dental implants not only look and feel natural but also preserve the remaining bone by getting integrated with it and then stimulating it. The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth/teeth remain unharmed as dental implants derive support directly from the jawbone. There are no embarrassing moments like slipping or popping of teeth, unlike dentures. A natural smile, enhanced appearance, and improved confidence are other benefits. Moreover, implants last for a lifetime.

3. How successful are dental implants?

Research and statistics based on the data from more than a million patients worldwide show that dental implants have a 95% success rate when superior standard brands of dental implants are used. Other factors that govern success are good oral hygiene, bone quality, and the expertise of the implantologist.

4. Will the surgical procedure be painful?

Dental implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia so it won’t hurt at all. Similar to any other oral surgical procedure, dental implant placement may have mild discomfort post-operatively and would remain only for a short duration.

5. What if I don’t replace my missing tooth at all?

A single missing tooth can cause a series of problems starting from bone loss, shifting of remaining teeth, decreased chewing function, problems related to digestion, speech difficulties, and change in appearance.

6. Am I too old for dental implants?

Age never comes in the way of getting dental implants as the primary factor responsible for the success of dental implants is how perfectly the surrounding bone fuses with the implant (osseointegration). Your general health needs to be congenial to promote optimal wound healing.

7. Are dental implants suitable for everybody, or are there any contraindications?

Your dentist will assess your oral condition before letting you know if dental implants are suitable for you or not. In very few conditions dental implants are not recommended such as,

• Heavy bruxism
• Smoking or chewing tobacco or severe alcoholism
• Inability to maintain proper oral hygiene
• Inadequate bone volume and quality, etc.

8. Do I need bone grafting?

Not always. Bone grafting is required if a patient does not have enough bone volume to endure the implant. With the help of radiographs, your dentist will determine if you need bone grafting before the placement of dental implants or not.

9. How long do I need to wait before I get my new teeth?

We initially process the preliminary checkups before the procedure, followed by a 3D scan to determine the structure of the bone and tissue, which reveals the duration of the treatment.

Immediate Placement

If the bones are much sufficient to support the implants, then it is carried out immediately after the extraction of the tooth.

Early Placement

Early implant placement refers to 2-3 months after extraction. Once the implants placed, we will have to wait for the implant to heal and connect with the bone for the prosthetic tooth fixing, which will typically take 3-6 additional months.

Delayed Placement

Before placing the implants, if you have an inadequate amount of bone at the extraction site, bone grafting is performed, and you need 3 to 6 months for healing to fit the new tooth.

10. What are the after-care instructions for dental implants?

The oral hygiene routine you follow for your natural teeth, which includes brushing twice a day, can be followed for dental implants as well. The most important thing is to show up on all your follow-up visits so that your implants receive professional care and maintenance.

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