10 FAQs About Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option. They are a permanent restoration that restores functionality and enhances your smile. If your dentist recommended dental implants, you may have questions about the procedure.

Get answers to your dental implant questions with this list of 10 frequently asked questions. We hope this blog post will help you make an informed decision about dental implants.

Table of Contents

• 1. Can dental implants get cavities?
• 2. How do dental implants stay in place?
• 3. What do dental implants look like?
• 4. What are hybrid dental implants?
• 5. What is the difference between dental implants and veneers?
• 6. Are dental implants permanent or removable?
• 7. What are the three stages of dental implant procedures?
• 8. How long before dental implants feel normal?
• 9. Can diabetics get dental implants?
• 10. Can you get dental implants after having dentures?
• Your Oral Surgeon in Deer Park, IL

1. Can dental implants get cavities?

No, dental implants cannot get cavities. This is because dental implants are made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and ceramic that cannot develop dental decay like natural teeth. However, it is still essential to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups to ensure the health of remaining natural teeth and to prevent gum disease.

2. How do dental implants stay in place?

Implants are secured using a surgical procedure that places the titanium post, or artificial tooth root, into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the natural bone in a process called osseointegration. This fusion creates a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth, ensuring long-term stability and success.

3. What do dental implants look like?

Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They consist of three parts:

• The titanium screw (which acts as an artificial tooth root).
• The abutment (which connects the screw to the crown).
• The dental crown (the visible replacement tooth).

The crown is custom-made to match your surrounding teeth’s shape, size, and color for a seamless appearance. This makes dental implants blend in with your natural teeth.

4. What are hybrid dental implants?

Hybrid dental implants, also known as implant-supported dentures, combine the benefits of dental implants and dentures. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, these are anchored to multiple dental implants inserted into your jawbone. The implants provide a secure fit that does not slip or shift like conventional dentures.

This cost-effective hybrid approach provides enhanced comfort, durability, and usability compared to traditional dentures.

5. What is the difference between dental implants and veneers?

Dental implants and veneers are two completely different dental procedures. While both procedures enhance the appearance of your smile, dental implants replace a missing tooth, while veneers improve the appearance of a tooth. 

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They do not replace a missing tooth but can enhance its shape, color, or alignment.

Dental implants replace a missing tooth by mimicking a natural tooth’s root and crown. Implants require surgery and involve inserting a titanium post into the jawbone. They are a permanent solution that restores full function to your mouth.

6. Are dental implants permanent or removable?

Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth. The titanium post that mimics the tooth root is surgically inserted into the jawbone and intended to last a lifetime with proper care. This includes good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

However, the dental restoration, the visible part of the tooth attached to the implant, can be removed and replaced if necessary. For instance, in cases of damage or wear over time, the restoration may need replacement while the implant itself remains in place.

Although dental implants are typically a permanent tooth replacement option, they can be removed in exceptional cases. For example, allergic reactions to titanium implants are very rare, but if they do happen, oral surgery is required to remove the implant.

7. What are the three stages of dental implant procedures?

1. Implant placement: In the first stage, the titanium implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This serves as an artificial root for the replacement tooth. After the implant is placed, there is a healing period of several months. This allows for osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for the new tooth.
2. Attachment of the abutment: The abutment is attached once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone. The abutment is a small connector that serves as the transition piece between the implant and the crown. It is placed onto the implant and will hold the future crown securely.
3. Crown placement: The last step in the dental implant process is creating and placing the custom-designed dental crown. It matches your natural teeth’ color, shape, and size for a seamless match. Once attached securely to the abutment, this completes the procedure, giving you a fully functional replacement tooth.

To learn more about the dental implant process, read our blog, Dental Implant Step-by-Step Procedure: Your Guide to a Confident Smile.

8. How long before dental implants feel normal?

It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after dental implant surgery. To aid healing, consume soft foods for 1-2 days, take prescribed pain medication, and maintain good oral hygiene.

After the initial healing period and the crown placement, your mouth may take a few weeks to adjust fully to a dental implant. Eventually, you won’t notice it as it will feel like a natural tooth.

9. Can diabetics get dental implants?

Yes, in many cases, diabetics can get dental implants. However, they may face higher risks for healing complications due to blood sugar control issues that lead to slower wound healing.

Diabetic patients need to have good control over their blood sugar levels before undergoing dental implant surgery. It is important to consult your dentist and physician to determine if dental implants suit you.

Read the blog How To Heal Faster After Dental Implants for implant healing tips.

10. Can you get dental implants after having dentures?

Yes, it is possible to get dental implants after having dentures. Many patients who have previously worn dentures switch to implant-supported dentures for improved stability and function.

However, if you have been wearing traditional dentures for a long time, the jawbone may have already started to shrink due to lack of stimulation from tooth roots. This could affect the success of dental implant surgery. Your dentist will evaluate your case and determine if you are a suitable candidate or if you require bone grafts before implants.

Your Oral Surgeon in Deer Park, IL

Dental implants are a durable and visually appealing solution for missing teeth. They provide the functionality and natural appearance of real teeth. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, making them a permanent solution for tooth loss.

Are you considering dental implants? Trust Oral Facial & Implant Specialists to guide you through the process. Our experienced oral surgeons, Dr. Thompson, and Dr. Martin, are committed to personalized treatment plans and patient satisfaction. We use advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology to create custom-made implants that are natural-looking and functional.

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Schedule your free dental implant consultation today! Call (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form for dental implants in Deer Park, IL.If you are searching for ‘dental implants in Deer Park,’ contact Oral Facial & Implant Specialists.