Dental Implant FAQs

Why Choose Dental Implants?

If you have a damaged tooth with a healthy root, a crown is often the best solution. However, when the root is compromised due to decay, damage, or bone loss, a dental implant with a crown provides a lasting replacement.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts that act as substitutes for missing tooth roots. Titanium is highly compatible with the human body, allowing the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This creates a stable base for affixing permanent or removable crowns, bridges, or dentures.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

• Aesthetics: Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They blend seamlessly with your smile, enhancing both your appearance and self-confidence.

• Bone Preservation: Dental implants help prevent bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss, preserving your jawbone and avoiding the sunken facial appearance that often follows tooth loss.

• Improved Functionality: Dental implants make eating and speaking easier, restoring comfort and confidence.

• Support to Adjacent Teeth: By maintaining the jawbone's strength, dental implants also help support the health of surrounding teeth.

How Many Teeth Can Be Replaced with Dental Implants?

Dental implants can replace anything from a single tooth to an entire set. For partial or full dentures, you don’t need an implant for each missing tooth. Often, just four implants can securely hold a denture. The number of implants needed depends on several factors, including affordability and the specific treatment plan, but remember, each implant helps prevent further bone loss.

Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?

Thanks to advancements in dental sedation, dental implant surgeries are generally painless. Many patients find the procedure quite manageable. With options like "sleep dentistry," you can undergo the surgery without the need for general anesthesia. Post-surgery discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and ice to reduce swelling.

Are Dental Implants Expensive?

While dental implants may seem costly upfront, they are a highly cost-effective long-term solution. When considering the lasting benefits in terms of dental health, aesthetics, and functionality, the investment is well worth it. Desert Pearl Dentistry also offers in-office financing options to help make dental implants more accessible.

How Do You Care for Dental Implants?

Dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth. If you’ve previously lost teeth due to poor dental habits, it’s essential to establish a consistent oral care routine. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and semi-annual dental visits. Although dental implants themselves don’t decay, the gums and surrounding bone can still be affected. Without proper care, you can lose a dental implant just as you would lose a natural tooth.

Do Dental Implants Always Work?

The success rate of dental implants is very high, with titanium being highly biocompatible. However, factors such as infections, smoking, or certain medical conditions can increase the risk of failure. Regular check-ups with your dentist are crucial to ensuring the longevity and success of your implants.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

If you have missing teeth or are about to have teeth extracted, you may be a good candidate for dental implants. After a thorough examination and x-rays to assess your bone health, our dentist at Desert Pearl Dentistry will provide a personalized treatment plan. Even if you’ve experienced some bone loss, bone grafting can help create a strong foundation for your implants. In some cases, newer implant techniques may eliminate the need for bone grafting. Schedule a consultation to evaluate your suitability for dental implants.