Dental Implant FAQ
Beaverton, OR
If you have been looking to replace a lost tooth, or a tooth that is severely diseased or damaged, you have probably heard about dental implants. Dental implants are the preferred replacement option, so here at Beaverton Oral Surgeons we thought it would be helpful to answer a few of the questions we get asked the most.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is the preferred way to replace a missing tooth. This is because unlike options such as a dental bridge or dentures, implants actually mimic the missing tooth root. Not only does this keep your jawbone healthy and your face young, but it also gives you the same physical feedback while eating that you get with your natural teeth. Implants accomplish this by placing tiny metal posts in the jawbone itself. Gradually, the post fuses with the living bone to become a part of your body.
Can Dental Implants Help You?
If you are missing one or more teeth, then there is a very good chance that a dental implant is the best choice for you. There are even implants designed to replace full arches. You do need to be in good oral health, so no gum disease or advanced decay, and you also need healthy bones. Luckily, cleanings and bone grafts can help fix both of these conditions.
What Are the Positives and Negatives of Implants?
To be honest, we could write a whole article just about all the positives of dental implants! They are the only way to keep your face young and your jawbone healthy. They are actually the most cost-effective option in the long run. They cannot decay like your natural teeth and all you need to take care of them is your normal toothbrush and toothpaste.
Of course, nothing is perfect, not even dental implants. Implants are more invasive than dental bridges or dentures and require a surgical operation, but unlike bridges do not require neighboring teeth to be filed down. Implants are also more expensive as a direct cost comparison, though this is offset when one considers the additional costs of replacement and maintenance required by bridges and dentures.
What Is the Implant Treatment Like?
There is actually not much to getting an implant placed. The appointment should be fairly short, and we will give you local anesthesia to numb any potential discomfort. You will be able to eat normally again after only a few days, though it usually takes a few months for the implant to fully fuse with your jawbone.
What If You Cannot Get Implants?
Even if you cannot get implants, perhaps because of cost or because of a preexisting condition, you still have options. Millions of people have benefitted from dental bridges and dentures. These options do have drawbacks though. Neither are as natural or feel as comfortable as implants, and both bridges and dentures can actually cause your long-term oral health to further deteriorate.
Still Have More Questions?
Then we want to answer them! So schedule a consultation at Beaverton Oral Surgeons today by calling (503) 646-7101 now! |
