Dr. Jason Keefe of 5 Mile Smiles is devoted to offering patients the safest solutions to their dental care needs. He often recommends dental implants to patients that are struggling with the challenges of tooth loss. Read on as Dr. Keefe, who serves Spokane and the surrounding areas, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a prosthetic that recreates the entire tooth structure, from root to crown. Implants are anchored by a titanium post that is implanted in the jawbone.
Who is a good candidate for a dental implant?
Dental implants are suitable for individuals that are missing one or more teeth. Ideally, candidates should be in good health and not smoke. Their jawbone should be strong enough to retain and support an implant post; however, in cases of weak jawbone, grafting may be performed to strengthen the bone in preparation of implant placement.
How many teeth can dental implants replace?
Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth or all of the teeth in the mouth. A single implant post is used to anchor a dental crown, and multiple posts can anchor a dental bridge or denture-like appliance. Some patients that are missing all of their teeth elect to have implants placed below existing dentures to improve their fit and stabilization.
How do dental implants compare to other tooth replacements?
Because they are anchored in the jawbone, dental implants have unique advantages over other tooth replacements. Chewing on the implant post prevents the jaw from losing bone mass, and supports the facial muscles. Implants fit and feel just like natural teeth, and won’t shift around in the mouth like some dentures can. They don’t require frequent repair or replacement like other tooth replacements.
What is the process of getting a dental implant?
The dental implant placement process takes place in three stages.
- The implant post is surgically implanted into the jawbone underneath the gap left by the missing tooth.
- The post is left to heal for a period of approximately three to six months. During that time, a temporary artificial tooth can be placed over the top of the post.
- Once the post has fused with the jawbone, the temporary tooth is removed and replaced with the permanent tooth.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The procedures to place and restore a dental implant should not cause pain or discomfort. The mouth is numbed and sedation dentistry techniques are available to minimize any discomfort.
How long can implants last?
A properly placed and well cared-for implant can last virtually indefinitely. Implants should be brushed and flossed like natural teeth and checked by a dentist every six months to a year.
Learn More about Dental Implants
If you have additional questions about dental implants that were not answered in this post, Dr. Keefe invites you to call or email 5 Mile Smiles today.
