Losing a tooth affects more than your smile. It can change how you chew and speak, and over time the teeth around a gap can shift. Dental implants are one of the most natural-feeling ways to replace a missing tooth, and they come with a lot of questions. Here are the ones we hear most.
What is a dental implant?
An implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone where the tooth root used to be. Once it has bonded with the bone, a crown is fitted on top. The result looks, feels and works much like a natural tooth. Implants can also support a bridge or a denture when several teeth are missing.
Implants, bridges or dentures?
An implant isn’t the only way to replace a tooth. A bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap for support, and a denture is removable. Implants stand on their own without relying on neighbouring teeth, and they help keep the jawbone in shape where the tooth was lost. Your dentist will go through the pros and cons of each for your situation.
Am I suitable?
Most adults in good general health can have implants. What matters most is healthy gums and enough bone in the jaw to hold the implant, which your dentist checks with an examination and X-rays or a scan. Smoking and some health conditions, such as poorly controlled diabetes, can affect healing, so mention anything relevant at your consultation.
What if there isn’t enough bone?
Bone can shrink after a tooth is lost. In many cases it can be built up with a bone graft before or during implant placement. Your dentist will explain whether that’s needed in your case.
Does it hurt?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during it. Afterwards, some soreness and swelling for a few days is normal and is usually managed with ordinary painkillers. Your dentist will tell you what to expect and what to take.
How long does it take?
Implants are a process rather than a single appointment. After the implant is placed, the bone usually needs a few months to bond with it before the final crown is fitted. Your dentist will give you a timeline for your own treatment.
How long do implants last?
With good care, implants can last many years. Look after them like natural teeth: brush twice a day, clean between your teeth and keep up your regular checkups, because healthy gums matter around an implant as much as around a tooth.
Start with a conversation
The first step is a consultation, where we look at your mouth, talk through your options and answer your questions without any pressure. See how dental implants at Calma Dental work, or get in touch.