Dental implants provide a long-term solution to people with missing teeth. In addition to restoring smiles and boosting confidence levels, they can also significantly improve a person’s oral health. To learn more about this common restorative procedure look at the frequently asked questions below.

Common Answers to Questions About Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

A dental implant has three main parts. The first is a small titanium post that’s surgically inserted into the jawbone by a dentist. Once it’s securely attached, an abutment is applied to the post. This abutment connects the post to an artificial tooth such as a bridge, a crown, or full partial dentures.

Who makes a good candidate for the procedure? 

In general, dental implants are ideal for people over age 17 who are missing one or more teeth. Younger individuals rarely qualify because their mouths and jaws are still growing. And because implants insert into the jawbone, a person must have enough bone mass to support it. It’s also important to have healthy gums, as inflammation and infection from gum disease can damage tissue and increase the risk of complications after the procedure.

What benefits do dental implants provide?

One of the biggest benefits is that they significantly improve the appearance of a person’s teeth. You no longer have to feel worried, embarrassed, or insecure about people noticing your missing or broken teeth, which can go a long way toward increasing your confidence. 

Implants also have several non-cosmetic benefits, such as improving your ability to eat and speak. You won’t have to worry about your implants falling out because they are permanently attached to your jaw. They’re also just as easy to care for as natural teeth (brush and floss like you normally would), unlike removable dentures that need to soak in special cleaning solutions.

How long does the procedure take?

While it depends on the number of implants, the procedure for a single-tooth implant can take as little as an hour or two. You’ll need to attend follow-up appointments so your dentist can make sure the implant is functioning properly and that no complications have developed since the procedure.

To learn more about dental implants and if they might be right for you, get in touch with Coulee Family Dental in La Crosse, WI. This family dentistry clinic provides a wide range of general and cosmetic services, from implants and tooth whitening to tooth extractions and root canals, in a warm and comfortable environment. Visit their website to learn more about their team, and call (608) 782-3102 to set up an appointment today.