Dental Implants: Your Frequently Asked Questions

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A recent study by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons has found that 69% of adults between the ages of 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth due to accidents, gum diseases, failed root canals, or tooth decay. Many adults look to dental implants as a solution for missing teeth, and today more than 3 million Americans have implants, and 500,000 new patients are opting for implants each year. Read on to learn more and find out if dental implants may be the solution for you.

Are dental implants painful?
Typically, patients are given a local anesthesia by their oral surgeon before the procedure takes place. After the initial surgery, there should be minimal pain or discomfort, which patients can relieve with an over-the-counter pain medication. However, prescription medication may be prescribed in certain cases.

How long does the dental implant process take?
Before the oral surgery can begin, a deep cleaning will be performed to ensure nothing will get into the open wound once the procedure has started. Once a patient’s teeth are clean, a periodontist will begin the procedure. One implant typically takes a little over an hour, while multiple implants can take two to three hours.

What is the healing process?
There are typically no open wounds after the dental implants have been installed, so the healing process is relatively easy to maintain, and most patients don’t feel more than slight discomfort. Despite this, the healing process can take up to six months, so regular check-ups may be necessary.

Will my body reject a dental implant?
The success rate of dental implants is particularly high, and scientific literature estimates that about 98% of dental implant procedures experience no real difficulties. Despite this, some patients may experience a rare reaction to the surgical metal. In this case, the dental implant will be removed, and a new one will be inserted once the mouth has healed.

How long will the dental implants last?
If properly maintained and cleaned, dental implants should fuse to the bone and become completely functional. A dental implant can remain in the mouth for up to 40 years when proper hygiene and check-ups are maintained.