Dental implants are considered great long-term investments due to their high success rates and natural looking prosthetic teeth. However, because they are not a cheap investment, patients must conduct careful and proper research before making a final decision.
Talking to your dentist and asking the right questions can help you prepare for the implant placement by knowing what to expect during and after the procedure. So what questions should you ask? Here are our top five questions and answers:
What are dental implants? Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jaw, underneath the gumline, in a three-step process. These posts create a strong foundation for the mounting of the porcelain crown and help restore the ultimate function of your mouth.
How do they work? It’s simple. Having dental implants will be much like having natural teeth. Not only do the dental implants look natural, they feel natural too. They also don’t require any special maintenance meaning that they can be cared for easily at home. Because dental implants are designed to restore the complete oral function of the mouth, they allow the patient to speak, eat, and talk comfortably with no slip-ups.
Is the treatment reliable and permanent? Yes, dental implants are reliable, permanent, and long-lasting. Unlike other restorative treatments, dental implants are designed to stand the test of time. The fact that they’re secured into the jawbone give the implants the security they need to stay fixed in place. They won’t move, fall out, or suffer from tooth decay or other infections due to their prosthetic nature.
Is it painful? The procedure in itself is not very painful. Dentists performing the dental implant procedure generally use local anesthesia to numb the surgical area. However, patients handle pain differently and may experience swelling or discomfort after the surgery. In order to help manage pain, dentists usually prescribe medication to assist during recovery.
How long will the process last? There is no fixed timeline for the dental implant process to be completed but some patients can be treated in as little as four months. Every patient and case is different, meaning that some patients will finish the treatment faster than others. There are a number of factors to take into consideration such as pain management and progress, willingness to comply with the doctor’s orders, and proper home care. It’s also important to note that some patients may need supplementary treatments before getting surgery – making their process longer than usual.
Call Art Dentistry Today!
If you’re considering investing in dental implants but have additional questions and concerns, call us at Art Dentistry today! Our skilled team and dentist, Dr. Martin, are here to help you reach your goals. Our office in Charlotte is dedicated to helping patients restore their dental health and regain their confidence. Our priority is your health! Call today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you!