Your Most Common Dental Implant Questions Answered

Your Most Common Dental Implant Questions Answered

dental implants HenricoWhen you’re exploring your treatment options to replace missing teeth, you will want to gather as much information about all of your choices, including dental implants. It can be helpful to start with a general understanding of what is involved in dental implant placement.

You may have more detailed questions that many patients have asked before you. Read on for a list of the questions we hear most frequently from prospective patients.  We also strongly recommend that you consult with an oral surgeon to get more information that is specific to your case.

Dental Implants: An Overview

Dental implants offer patients a structurally complete tooth replacement, providing an artificial root and crown structure. This is possible due to osseointegration, in which bone tissue forms a permanent bond with a titanium dental implant.

In order to place dental implants in a patient’s jaw, an oral surgeon must perform a surgical procedure to make room in the socket for the implant and then insert it. This is an outpatient procedure, that is typically completed in a matter of hours, depending on how many implants are being placed.

Most patients will choose some form of sedation in addition to local anesthetic for maximum comfort during dental implant placement.

For several months after the dental implant is inserted in the jaw, osseointegration will proceed. Patients may be able to be fitted with a prosthetic appliance immediately after dental implant placement, but that temporary appliance may be replaced after osseointegration is complete.

Dental Implant FAQs

Patients often have the following questions for the oral surgeon when weighing their treatment options.

  • Do dental implants hurt? Patients may experience some minor discomfort after dental implant placement, but it can often be managed by over-the-counter medications.
  • When will I be able to go back to work/school after dental implant placement? Absent any complications, most patients will be able to return to sedentary work or school within a few days of dental implant placement.
  • How are dental implants different from other tooth replacements? Dental implants offer the only structurally complete tooth replacement available to patients, which has a number of benefits.
  • Does insurance pay for dental implants? Dental insurance may cover a portion of the costs associated with dental implant placement. Our experienced billing staff will work diligently to maximize any relevant benefits that you may have.

To get more information about dental implants and the answers to any other questions you may have, visit our team at Commonwealth Oral & Facial Surgery for a no-obligation consultation.