Dental Implant FAQs

Dental implants are a great solution to missing permanent teeth and can restore the natural beauty of your smile. As such, getting dental implants requires a lot of consideration and research.

To help you out, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about dental implants. From what they are to how they are placed, we’ll answer any questions you have about this dental implant process so you can know what to expect from the procedure.

With this knowledge, you should be in a better position to decide whether dental implants are the right choice for you.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a permanent replacement for a missing natural tooth. It involves placing an artificial tooth root made from titanium into your jawbone to hold a false tooth or bridge.

The titanium root serves as the anchor for your new tooth, providing stability to prevent them from shifting. The false teeth are then attached to the titanium root for a secure fit that mimics the look and feel of natural teeth.

How long do dental implants last?

The lifespan of a dental implant depends on several factors, such as the quality of your dental health and how well your jawbone heals after surgery. Dental implants can last anywhere from 10-15 years with proper care.

Am I eligible for dental implants?

Patients must have sufficient jawbone tissue to secure the titanium root properly. If a patient does not have enough healthy jawbone, they may require a bone grafting procedure before receiving their implant. Furthermore, individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease may need medical clearance from their doctor before receiving a dental implant.

It’s best to consult a qualified family dentist to determine whether or not dental implants are right for you.

Is getting dental implants painful?

Although some discomfort is involved with the implantation process, many patients report little to no pain during the procedure.

Before the operation begins, your dentist will provide local anesthesia, which numbs the area and makes the experience much more accessible. Afterward, you may experience swelling and tenderness near the implant site, but this usually subsides within a few days.

Your dentist may recommend taking ibuprofen or other mild pain relievers following the procedure to minimize discomfort.

What is the dental implant placement process?

The first step to any dental implant process is a consultation with your dentist to ensure the best outcome for your treatment. During this consultation, the dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss the various options for implant placement.

Once it is determined that you are a good candidate for dental implants, the dentist will create a plan customized to your specific needs. The program will include X-rays, a CT scan, and other imaging tests to determine the exact location of the implant site in your mouth. This information is then used to create an exact map of your jawbone and surrounding tissue.

When the exact placement of the implant is determined, your dentist will begin the implant procedure. During this process, the dentist will drill a small hole into the bone, before placing a titanium screw to hold the artificial tooth or crown.

After securing the titanium screw, your dentist will insert an abutment, a small connector piece that connects the titanium screw and the artificial tooth or crown. Once the abutment is secured, the artificial tooth or crown is placed and bonded with unique materials.

How much does a dental implant cost?

The cost of a dental implant varies from person to person based on their individual needs and the type of implant being placed.

On average, a single implant can range anywhere from $1,500-$2,000 depending on the patient’s unique situation and where they get their implant placed. If multiple teeth need to be replaced, these costs can add up quickly, especially if additional treatments like bone grafting are required.

How long does it take to get dental implants?

The length of time depends on various factors, including how many teeth are replaced and the patient’s overall health. The steps include:

Consultation

The first step in the dental implant process is an initial consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon. During this appointment, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals for treatment, and create a plan for your specific case. X-rays and other imaging tests may also be necessary at this point.

Implant Placement

The dentist will surgically insert the titanium post into your jawbone during this procedure. It is usually done under local anesthesia. After implant placement, the jawbone must heal appropriately to accept the implants. This healing period can take anywhere from three to six months.

How to care for my dental implant?

Proper care of your implant is essential to ensure it remains strong and healthy. Brush and floss twice daily to keep the area clean and free of plaque and bacteria. It’s also essential to regularly visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings to help identify and address any issues early.

With regular maintenance and proper oral hygiene, your implant can last many years.

Book Your Dental Implant Appointment With Our Family Dentist in Hanford, CA

Implant dentistry offers a safe, reliable, and natural-looking solution to missing teeth. But although they offer a permanent solution to tooth loss, they still need regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.

Our family dentist in Hanford, CA, can provide the necessary care, repair, and maintenance to make sure your implant is in top condition and serving you as it should.

At Jack Nagrani Dentistry, we strive to provide our clients with the best dental care possible to ensure the implant is functioning properly.

For a consultation, contact us today at (559) 422-6027.