Dental Implant FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants in Belpre, OH
What does a dental implant look like?
Are there different types of dental implants?
How long will a dental implant last?
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
What factors impact bone mass?
What if I don’t have the proper bone mass for implants?
What should I expect during the implant placement procedure?
What happens after the implant has been placed?
What if I need an implant and I have dental anxiety?
How will I care for my dental implants?
Will I still need professional teeth cleanings for implants?
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Do you offer rush services?
What does a dental implant look like?
Dental implants have three pieces that work together to restore tooth function.
The first part is the implant itself – a titanium screw that lies below the surface of your gum line in your jawbone. It serves as the anchor for the entire dental implant and fuses with the bone to provide strength.
Next is the abutment, which is a connector piece between the implant and the dental prosthesis. Your dental prosthesis will be attached to the abutment, and then the abutment will screw the dental prosthesis into the implant.
The final piece, the dental prosthesis, can be either a dental crown, bridge, or denture. For a single missing tooth, a crown is usually used. Bridges or dentures can be used when multiple teeth are missing.
Are there different types of dental implants?
Yes, there are many different types of dental implants used today.
Endosteal implants are the most commonly used. This style is highly recommended by most implant dentists. These implants are typically 3-6 mm in diameter and commonly range from 6-15mm in length.
Frequently referred to as “minis”, these implants are smaller in diameter than 3 mm. They are often used for patients that are not good candidates for endosteal implants.
Least used, Subperiosteal implants sit atop the jawbone just below the gum line instead of within the bone.
How long will a dental implant last?
We typically expect dental implants to last 25 years to life. Lots of factors come into play, but overall dental implants are the longest-lasting solution to missing teeth.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Thanks to the variety of implant styles, many patients are able to get them. One quick scan in our office with our 3D CBCT will allow us to analyze the jawbone and tell you what options are best for you. Ideal candidates have the necessary bone mass to support dental implants.
What factors impact bone mass?
The longer a tooth is missing, the more the bone resorbs. Placing an implant immediately after tooth removal maintains the bone mass in the area.
If biological, financial, or other factors prevented you from getting a dental implant immediately after tooth extraction, we have options for you!
What if I don’t have the proper bone mass for implants?
Bone mass can be replenished through a bone graft.
A bone graft is a specialized procedure, done in our office, that builds up bone tissue in areas that need it. Bone grafts use a natural bone material from either human or animal sources. Bone is placed where bone is lacking.
What should I expect during the implant placement procedure?
Click here to read about our implant placement process.
During your dental implant placement, you can expect to be completely comfortable.
Our implant dentists will make a tiny cut in your gum tissue to expose your jawbone. Then, a specialized drill is used to shape the site where the implant will be placed. Once properly prepared, the implant will be inserted and secured.
Next, a cover screw or healing abutment is placed on the implant. If the healing abutment is attached, the gums will be sealed around the abutment. Otherwise, gums are sealed over top of the implant cover screw.
Ready to enhance your smile and change your life?
Want to know if you’re a candidate for implants?
Call Dr. Huffman today to set up a Dental Implant consultation.
What happens after the implant has been placed?
Read about our full implant process here!
After your implant has been placed, it will need approximately 3-6 months to fuse to the jawbone in a healing process called osseointegration. This process is necessary for your implant to properly anchor itself and provide a strong foundation for the dental prosthesis. During this process, you will want to take special care to not damage or cause the implant to shift. For this reason, a temporary diet of soft foods is recommended.
Once your implant has fused to the bone, your dental prosthesis is placed for a permanent restoration.
What if I need a dental implant and I have dental anxiety?
We understand feeling concerned. An overwhelming percentage of American adults feel anxious about dental care. Our patients find that we excel at keeping patients comfortable and relaxed.
Our patients are made comfortable and fully numbed for any procedure. Additionally, we offer complimentary Nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Most patients find laughing gas is a great way to relax through a procedure and that the time passes quickly.
Very anxious patients may need additional calming medication. If necessary, we can prescribe anxiolytic medications to take ahead of time.
We specialize in patients with dental anxiety and are always happy to help you feel at ease about your care!
How will I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants is much like caring for natural teeth.
Maintain good dental hygiene – brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting us least once every six months for your dental checkup and cleaning.
Avoid bad habits that can be detrimental to your oral health, such as tobacco use, chewing on hard candies or ice, and grinding or clenching your teeth.
Don’t worry though, besides these quick tips, we will give you complete care instructions at your appointment.
If I have an implant or a denture fixed on implants, do I still need professional dental cleanings?
Yes. While the dental implant itself will not decay like natural teeth, your oral health still needs to be maintained with regular cleanings at least twice a year.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Yes! For patients living outside of the Mid-Ohio Valley or those with hectic schedules, our doctors hold virtual consultations via FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, or WhatsApp.
Please be in a private and quiet environment with good lighting. After your consultation, you will be given a preliminary plan, including required records, required visits, the estimated cost of treatment, and payment options. Please complete our Virtual Consultation Form at the time you request a virtual consultation.
Do you offer rush implant services?
Due to the nature of dental implants and the healing curve of the human body, it is not always possible to rush the dental implant process. If you need your dental implants rushed and our implant dentists deem it possible for appropriate healing, we will accommodate your timeline. Extra fees may apply.
Ready to enhance your smile and change your life?
Want to know if you’re a candidate for implants?
Enhance your smile and change your life.
