Dental implants are a treatment methods used to replace a tooth that is damaged beyond repair or missing altogether. The implant mimics the root structure of a real tooth so not only does it look like a real tooth, it feels like one too. Of course, lots of people who are considering getting a dental implant have questions about them, so we thought we’d use this week’s blog as an opportunity to provide some answers. Learn more about how implants work in our blog!
Do you have questions about dental implants? Olney Dental has the answers!
Dental Implants: Olney Dental Answers Your Questions
What are they made of?
The implant itself is made of titanium and is usually shaped like a screw or cylinder. This is the part that goes into the gumline and serves as the artificial root of the tooth.
The part that you see is called the restoration. This is the part that’s designed to look like a tooth. This could be a dental crown or bridge. This is put into place after the implant is allowed to heal.
How are they put in?
A small hole is drilled into the site where the implant is going to be put in. The implant is placed in the hole and then covered over with gum tissue and a protective cover, which is then allowed to heal. Healing can take up to 6 months.
Once the gums have healed, the dentist attaches an abutment to the implant. The abutment is what holds the crown or other restoration in place. And that’s it! You have a new dental implant that looks just like a real tooth.
Does it hurt?
During the procedure your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area so you won’t feel any pain. After the procedure you may experience minor discomfort, for which you may be prescribed pain medication.
Do they stay in?
The success rate for implants is very high. Lower jaw implants have a 95% 5-year success rate, and upper jaw implants have a 90% 5-year success rate. And as long as you practice proper dental hygiene, the implant will last for up to 40 years.
How do they compare to bridges?
Bridges are cemented to the teeth surrounding a gap in order to fill in this gap. While bridges are strong, they don’t have any connection to the jawbone itself. Dental implants are implanted into the jawbone, making them stronger, more stable, and more durable.
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