Dental implants: Common questions and answers.

This article answers a number of common questions about dental implants. Specifically, it answers the following questions: what implants are; how they are placed; what the advantages of dental implants are; and answers to other common questions.

The information in this article is written for a beginner. The author assumes that you have never used implants.

Dental implants are an artificial substitute for the root portion of a tooth and are attached into a drilled socket in the jaw bone for support. Dental implants are placed in the following way: The gum is lifted and a hole is drilled, then a titanium implant is placed in the hole. Usually only one dental implant is placed, but if the patient needs to implant fewer teeth, then all of them can be supported via a bridge or denture. As long as the patient has a fully developed jawbone, implants can be placed. Dental techniques have improved greatly in the past 30 years, and implants usually last a lifetime. Prices vary from practice to practice and depend on various factors, including the oral surgeon’s skill, the type and brand of the implant, the level of aftercare provided, and so on. Prices vary from one thousand to a few thousand dollars.

Some other information to consider: Implants may not be suitable for some people, such as heavy smokers, because the healing process is slower in these cases. Also, people who consume alcohol excessively may not be eligible for implants, along with individuals who have periodontal gum disease because all active gum diseases must be treated before the implant process begins. Finally, people who have immune system-related diseases and people who grind their teeth usually need additional treatments prior to receiving implants.

This article answered the most common questions about dental implants. It answered the following questions: what implants are; how they are placed; what the advantages of implants are; and answers to other common questions.