Dental Implant FAQs

WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Dental implants are a tooth replacement method that dentist use. They are unique from other tooth replacement methods because they replace the teeth at the roots. This type of restoration uses metal screw like posts that are implanted in the jaw bone to hold the false teeth in place. These posts will make the restoration more stable and durable. Dental implants can replace any number of missing teeth. They offer many more health and aesthetic benefits compared to traditional dentures and dental bridges.

CAN DENTAL IMPLANTS FAIL?

There is a small chance your dental implants can fail. However, you can easily prevent this with proper care. The main causes of failure include bone loss and infection. Peri-implantitis is a dental infection that can develop when the patient does not practice good oral hygiene. If you choose to get dental implants, then you must be committed to a lifetime of proper oral care. This will prevent infections that lead to many dental problems that will cause your implants to fail. This is includes daily brushing and twice a year visits to our dentist office in Denton, TX.

AM I TOO YOUNG TO GET DENTAL IMPLANTS?

It does not take much to qualify for dental implants. However we do want to make sure your jawbone is done developing. For this reason, we do not recommend dental implants to children. Once a person reaches 18-20 years of age, then we will consider them.

ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS COMFORTABLE?

Dental implants are the most comfortable teeth replacement solution available today. Since they replace the teeth at the root, the dental restoration is more secure. This eliminates the possibility of the restoration slipping around or rubbing against gums. They also will not cause slurred speech. In most cases, they will feel just like natural teeth.

ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS NATURAL LOOKING?

Just like a tooth root, the dental implant is hidden in the jawbone. The only part that people will see is the dental restoration. Today’s restorations are very realistic and most people can hardly tell the difference between a false tooth and a real tooth. We can even match them to the shade of your remaining, natural teeth.

CAN I REPLACE MY DENTURE WITH DENTAL IMPLANTS?

It is possible to replace your removable denture with dental implants. Many people choose traditional dentures because they are easy, convenient, and cheap. They soon realize the many negatives to wearing them. They may struggle with poor fitting dentures that slip around and cause slurred speech. Or realize the limited food choices they have to live with. The sooner you choose dental implants after tooth loss the better. This is because bone loss is inevitable after tooth loss due to lack of stimulation. With the placement of implants in the jaw, you can prevent this.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO REPLACE A SINGLE MISSING TOOTH?

The quickest and most cost efficient way to replace one tooth is with a partial denture or fixed dental bridge. However the best way to replace a tooth is with an implant supported crown. This type of restoration will look, feel, and function like a natural tooth. It will help prevent bone degradation and it very easy to care for.