FAQ

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. The entire process can vary in duration depending on several factors, such as individual healing times and whether or not additional procedures are required.

Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a consultation where the dentist evaluates if you're a good candidate for dental implants.

Preparation Stage: If needed, some patients may require procedures like bone grafting to ensure there's enough bone to support the implant. This could add a few weeks or months to the healing process.

Placement of the Implant: Once you're ready, the dentist will surgically place the implant into your jawbone. This procedure usually takes a couple of hours.

Osteointegration: Here's a term to understand - osteointegration. In layman's terms, it's the period the jawbone takes to bond with the implant. Think of it as the foundation of a house setting and becoming strong. This phase is vital and typically takes between 8 to 12 weeks, ensuring the implant is securely anchored.

Placement of the Crown: After osteointegration is complete, you'll return to the dentist for the placement of the crown (the visible tooth part). This appointment is relatively quick and may last an hour or so.

To sum up, while the actual procedures might only take a few hours, the entire dental implant process, including healing and recovery, can span several months. Each patient's experience is unique, so your timeline might differ based on individual needs and circumstances. It's always recommended to consult with your dentist at Advanced Dentistry & Implants for a precise timeline tailored for you.

Sometimes, immediate implants are possible where the implant is placed at the time of tooth extraction. This approach can reduce the total treatment time. However, factors like infection, bone quality, and location determine if this is a viable option.

Dental implants, if cared for properly, can last many decades and often for the lifetime of the patient. Their longevity outstrips most other restorative dental options. Factors affecting their lifespan include oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding excessive pressure or trauma to the implant area.

Ideal candidates for dental implants are individuals with good overall health, have healthy gums, and sufficient bone density in the jaw to anchor the implants. This includes those who've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or disease. Smokers or individuals with certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or osteoporosis, may face challenges with the implant healing and integration process. A thorough dental and medical evaluation is essential before proceeding.

Dental implants have a long track record of being safe and effective. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are associated risks. Potential complications can include infection at the implant site, injury to surrounding structures, nerve damage, and sinus problems. Choosing an experienced and qualified dental professional minimizes these risks.

Yes, dental implants can fail, though it's relatively rare. Factors include infection, insufficient bone density, overloading, allergies to implant materials, poor dental hygiene, smoking, and uncontrolled diabetes. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral care can reduce these risks.