Questions About Implant Dentistry
At River Bluff Dental, we understand that making the decision to undergo a dental implant procedure can be a bit daunting. You will undoubtedly have many questions about the procedure, recovery and long-term results. If you have a gap in your smile, Dr. Walter Palmer is happy to fully explain how dental implants work and help you determine whether this restorative option is right for you.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Permanent dental implants are often preferred over removable appliances for a number of reasons:
- They do no slip in the mouth, causing embarrassing clicking noises or difficulty with speech and eating
- They are more comfortable than removable dentures and do not rest on the gum line
- They do not require the support of adjacent teeth like other dental restorations so your neighboring healthy teeth are not altered
- It is easier to clean between dental implants and your natural teeth, aiding in oral hygiene
- They look like your own natural teeth and can give you back your self-confidence
- Once they are in place, they become a permanent, mostly worry- and hassle-free part of your smile
- They can last a lifetime with proper dental care
How long will the dental implant process take?
Because there are several steps in the dental implant process and each step requires adequate healing time before continuing on to the next step, the entire process can take up to one year. The time invested is worth the results.
Can anyone get dental implants?
Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. Some patients have conditions that can interfere with proper healing. Dr. Palmer may suggest other dental procedures if you:
- Have a chronic illness or disease
- Are a smoker
- Have gum disease
- Do not practice good oral hygiene
- Do not have sufficient jaw bone to support the implant
If I do not have sufficient jaw bone, are dental implants out of the question?
Not necessarily. If a patient does not have sufficient jaw bone, a bone graft procedure can help to build up the jaw bone to support a dental implant.
How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for your dental implants the same way you would care for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene, consuming a healthy diet and keeping regular dental appointments will help extend the life of your dental implants.
Does dental implant surgery hurt?
Patients will receive local anesthesia during the dental implant procedure. There may be discomfort when the anesthesia wears off, and some patients will experience more discomfort than others. Any discomfort should subside within a few days after surgery.
If you have additional questions about dental implants, please contact dental implant surgeon Dr. Walter Palmer at River Bluff Dental in Minneapolis, Minnesota today to schedule a consultation and have your questions answered.
