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Dental implants are one of the most durable and natural-looking options for replacing missing teeth. Still, many patients want clarity about the process, results, and long-term care before committing to treatment.
In this blog, we answer the top questions about dental implants, from how they work to who qualifies and what recovery looks like.
Table of Contents
- 1. How Do Dental Implants Stay in Place?
- 2. Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?
- 3. What Are Hybrid Dental Implants?
- 4. Are Dental Implants Permanent or Removable?
- 5. Can Diabetics Get Dental Implants?
- 6. Can I Get Dental Implants If I Have Gum Disease?
- 7. How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
- 8. Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?
- 9. How Long Does It Take to Get a Dental Implant From Start to Finish?
- 10. Can Smokers Get Dental Implants?
- Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in Deer Park, IL
1. How Do Dental Implants Stay in Place?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the bone. Through a process called osseointegration, the bone grows around the implant and locks it in place. Once healed, a custom crown is attached to complete the replacement tooth. This bond makes implants strong enough to chew like natural teeth.
2. Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Dental implants cannot get cavities because they are made from materials that do not decay. However, the gums and bone around the implant can still become infected if not properly cared for. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to keep the surrounding tissue healthy and the implant stable.
3. What Are Hybrid Dental Implants?
Hybrid implants are full-arch restorations supported by dental implants. This solution combines implants with a fixed denture or bridge to replace all teeth in an arch. Unlike removable dentures, hybrid implants are screwed into place and only removed by your dentist. They are ideal for patients missing multiple teeth and looking for a stable, long-term option.
4. Are Dental Implants Permanent or Removable?
The dental implant itself is permanent. It is surgically placed into the jawbone and stays fixed in place. What can vary is the type of restoration attached to the implant. A single implant topped with a crown is not removable. It is designed to stay in place and function like a natural tooth. Some implant-supported dentures are designed to be removable. These snap onto implants for stability but can be taken out for cleaning.
5. Can Diabetics Get Dental Implants?
People with diabetes can be good candidates for dental implants, as long as their condition is well-managed. Uncontrolled blood sugar can interfere with healing and raise the risk of complications after surgery. With proper planning, good oral hygiene, and coordination between your oral surgeon and physician, dental implants can be a safe and effective option for many diabetic patients.
6. Can I Get Dental Implants If I Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease causes bone loss, which weakens implant support. Before implants can be placed, your periodontal health must be stable. This may involve deep cleaning, gum surgery, or bone grafting. Once the infection is resolved and the tissue is healthy, implants can be successful long-term.
7. How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last for many years. The implant itself can remain secure in the jaw indefinitely if you maintain excellent oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. The crown or bridge may need replacement due to normal wear, but the implant post can often stay intact for decades.
8. Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?
Most patients say the discomfort is less than expected and easily managed. Dental sedation is used during surgery, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Mild swelling or soreness afterward is normal, but most patients return to daily activities within a day or two.
9. How Long Does It Take to Get a Dental Implant From Start to Finish?
If a tooth needs to be extracted and no bone grafting is required, the dental implant can often be placed during the same visit. The implant typically takes about 3 to 4 months to heal and fuse with the jawbone. After that, the abutment and final crown are placed, usually within a few weeks. Every patient is different, and the total timeline can vary based on your health, bone quality, and healing response. If bone grafting is needed before implant placement, additional healing time is required, which can extend the overall process by several months.
10. Can Smokers Get Dental Implants?
Smokers can still be candidates for dental implants, but there are added risks to consider. Nicotine restricts blood flow and can slow the healing process, which may affect how well the implant bonds with the jawbone. Smoking also increases the chances of infection, gum inflammation, and bone loss around the implant. For the best outcome, we recommend quitting smoking before and after surgery to support proper healing and long-term success.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in Deer Park, IL
Considering dental implants? Dr. J. Travis Thompson and Dr. Stephen Martin provides experienced, patient-centered care to help you understand your options and feel confident moving forward.
To book a dental implant consultation at our oral surgeons office in Deer Park, IL, call (847) 381-0106 or visit us at 21660 W. Field Parkway, Suite 220, Deer Park, IL.
