Dental implants are known as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. If you are interested in implant treatment but want to know more before receiving care, we can help. As a provider of dental implants in Long Grove, IL, we’re here to help answer patient questions about implants and the dental implant process.
Q&A: Dental Implants in Long Grove, IL
Below we will answer common questions that many of our patients have about dental implant treatment:
Do dental implants function like natural teeth?
Implants function like natural teeth because they replace teeth at the root. We place the implant posts in the jaw bone, where they fuse to create an artificial tooth root. Once the implants heal, they support natural-looking, durable restorations that feel like teeth.
Is it painful to get a dental implant?
The implant procedure is not painful because we use anesthesia. Following treatment, you may feel discomfort. We will recommend pain medication and a soft diet as you get accustomed to the implants and as the implants heal.
Do dental implants stop bone loss?
You lose jaw bone support when you lose one or more permanent teeth. Dental implants can support the jaw bone beneath the gums by replacing the tooth root. Once the implants are fully healed, they retain bone and prevent further loss. We can also recommend bone grafting before implant treatment so patients have sufficient bone to fuse with the implant post.
What is the failure rate of dental implants?
On average, dental implants have a failure rate of 5 to 10 percent and a success rate of over 95 percent. Implant failure is mainly caused by smoking, tobacco use, or gum disease. Before implant treatment, we ensure that patients are in good oral health and have stopped using tobacco products. Because nicotine restricts the blood vessels, it slows healing. Infections like gum disease can also loosen the implants and cause failure.
How do dental implants improve your oral health?
Implants improve oral health in many ways. Suppose patients have lost their permanent teeth due to an infection. In that case, we address their infection and replace missing teeth with implants, which offer a clean slate with comfortable, functional teeth replacements. Because dental implants replace the tooth root, they support healthy bone tissue. The implants also fill the gap left by missing teeth, which can improve bite function. Patients who receive implants and implant-supported restorations can clean their false teeth and gums just like natural teeth and keep up with their oral hygiene.
Will dental implants last a lifetime?
The titanium implant post should be in your mouth permanently. While you may need to replace your false teeth or restoration over time, the implant post or posts are permanent. Once the implants heal, they stay in place in the jaw bone tissue.
If you have more questions about dental implants, please call our dental office at (847) 230-9703. You may also schedule your next dental visit with us online.