5 Questions You May Have About Dental Implants

Losing a tooth or more due to tooth decay, periodontal disease, or a traumatic injury is not uncommon. Fortunately, dental treatments like dental implantation are readily available for people with missing or broken teeth to restore their smile and confidence. But, despite the benefits of teeth restoration or replacement, many people turn their eyes away from dental appointments, assuming it will be a painful experience.

Perhaps you or someone you know need a dental implant treatment but are afraid to visit a dentist for the procedure. If so, we have answered a few commonly asked questions regarding dental implants that may help you overcome your fears and schedule an appointment with our renowned dentists in Carmel Valley. Read on:

What is a dental implant treatment?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically titanium pieces, placed in the jaw bone to replace teeth. Abutments are connecting pieces placed on the top of implants to hold the crowns in their places. Ceramic crowns are laboratory fabricated crowns that look and act like natural teeth and are cemented to abutments. Once the entire procedure is complete, patients can maintain dental and oral hygiene by brushing and flossing dental implants like regular teeth.

Do you need a dental implant treatment?

People opt for dental implants in Carmel Valley or elsewhere to restore missing teeth, mainly morals, which are essential for chewing. Many choose dental implants over dentures and prosthetics because they function, feel, and look like natural teeth. They are surgically placed roots that prevent bone loss, keep the jawbone healthy, and improve oral health. Our dentists create custom implants matching the surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color to make them appear like natural teeth.

How long does the treatment take?

The procedure may take a few months to a year or two, depending on the patient’s oral health and the complexity of the condition. For instance, a non-smoker person with a healthy set of teeth, who needs only one or two implants, may require timely dental visits only for a few months.

If you’re worried about how long a dental implant last, take a sigh of relief because custom implants are made of durable materials that can last for years. Most patients do not require replacement when they practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing their teeth and visiting their dentists for regular dental check-ups.

Can you get a dental implant treatment?

It’s best to visit a renowned dentist for a comprehensive oral exam to learn whether or not you can get dental implants. If the jawbone is too soft to provide a secure anchor for implants or not thick enough, a dentist may recommend bone grafting to create a solid foundation.

Is dental implant treatment painful?

Dental procedures, including dental implants, seem scary, but they relieve discomfort patients regularly struggle with due to missing teeth. Our dentists use anesthetic techniques to numb the affected areas before the procedure for the patient’s comfort and safety. After the procedure, discomfort, mild pain, and swelling are expected, but they last only for a short time. Most patients return to their daily chores the day after the surgery.

If you still have questions about dental implants, call us at 858-350-7400 today to set up a consultation. We provide comprehensive dental and oral care to our patients!