Dr. Herman Salzberg, our dentist here at Herman Salzberg, DMD in Palatine, IL, commonly utilizes dental implants as a tooth replacement solution. If you’re considering getting implants, you probably have a lot of questions, so we’ve put together a list of dental implant FAQs for you.
What Exactly is a Dental Implant?
This tooth replacement treatment replaces a missing tooth with an implant made out of a titanium post. In turn, this will bond with your jawbone to build a strong foundation for the dental crown that will be placed on top and serve as the visible tooth. An abutment atop the dental implant will connect the dental crown to the implant, restoring your smile and oral functions.
Multiple implants could be implanted for replacing multiple missing teeth. Additionally, a dental implant could be utilized for securing dental bridges and removable or fixed dentures.
Why Should I Choose Dental Implants Over Other Tooth Replacement Solutions?
Because implants perform and look like real teeth, they’re the only tooth replacement solution that can prevent jawbone loss and even promote further bone development. You can smile, eat, laugh, and speak confidently, knowing that your teeth won’t budge. Doing your oral care habits is also easier because you won’t have to remove, clean, and then put anything back.
Does Dental Implant Surgery Hurt?
Not at all. Your dentist in Palatine, IL, will use anesthesia throughout the dental implant surgery to make sure that you don’t feel a thing. However, as with most dental surgeries, you will experience some pain after the surgery, which you can relieve by taking OTC pain medications and ice.
How Long Will The Entire Dental Implant Treatment Take?
The entire treatment will take a couple of months. For people who have enough jawbone and excellent oral health, the dentist may consider placing the implant after the tooth extraction. You’ll then have to wait for a couple of months for the implantation site to properly heal so that the dental crown can be installed without issues.
On the other hand, patients who have tooth infections or other dental issues, or those that need bone grafting, would have to address these problems first before starting dental implantation surgery.
How Long Will a Dental Implant Last?
At least 20 years, or even a lifetime, when cared for and maintained properly. As for the crown on top, you can expect it to last for 15 or more years.
Contact Us For More Information or Questions on Dental Implants
Schedule a meeting here at Herman Salzberg, DMD in Palatine, IL, with Dr. Herman Salzberg by dialing 847-359-6766.