Dental Implants FAQ

Patients with missing teeth who are considering dental implants understandably have many questions about this advanced form of restorative dentistry. Get the information you need through this dental implants FAQ from Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions in Manhattan Beach, CA, and find out whether this treatment is right for rebuilding and reviving your smile.

Will I feel the dental implants?

You want your smile to look better, but you also don’t want it to feel weird when you get a restoration. Dental implants become part of the jawbone, healing in place so they fit naturally into your smile. The only thing that might feel different is finally having a tooth where there once was a gaping hole left by a missing tooth.

How long does it take to get dental implants?

Dental implants are not a one-and-done procedure. This is a process that takes many months and many dental visits from start to finish. Here is a dental implants FAQ of what you can expect:

• Consultation: Your Manhattan Beach dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if you are an ideal dental implant candidate.
• Surgery: Over a one- to two-hour procedure, the dental implant is surgically implanted in the jawbone then topped with an abutment and temporary dental crown.
• Healing: It may take several months for the implant to fuse successfully with the bone and deliver concrete evidence that the restoration is secure.
• Wrap-up: Once your dentist has determined the healing process is complete, a permanent crown, bridge, or permanent denture is attached to the abutment for a complete smile makeover.

Can I replace multiple teeth at one time?

Yes, multiple teeth can be replaced at the same time – but you don’t need an implant for every missing tooth. The location of the missing teeth in your mouth will factor into how the procedure progresses. For some, the innovation of All-On-4 allow for the replacement of an entire arch of teeth using only four dental implants. Your dentist will determine the number and location of dental implants long before any activity commences.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. If you take care of your teeth by brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day, and keeping all dental appointments for teeth cleanings and check-ups, there is no reason that fully healed implants can’t stand the test of time.

How do I know if dental implants are right for me?

Only your Manhattan Beach dentist can tell you for certain if dental implants are the right restorative dentistry procedure to replace missing teeth and repair your smile. Your mouth will offer clues as it stands now, while x-rays and other digital images will provide even more details. It’s necessary to find out whether you have a strong enough jawbone to accept the implant and bond permanently with it.

Your gums must also be clean and healthy, free of infection or disease. You might still be a good candidate for this restoration, but you’ll need to undergo gum treatment first to make sure your mouth is in good condition to manage the procedure.

Even if dental implants aren’t the right solution, there is a restorative dentistry method that can support your oral health needs and give you a complete, healthy smile once again.

Dental Implants FAQ Answered in Manhattan Beach

If you’re missing any teeth, schedule a consultation with the dental team at Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions to find out if you’re a good candidate for this procedure and ask any questions you have about restorative dentistry.