If you are missing a tooth but you are in good general health, with healthy gums and a jawbone that can support an implant, implant treatment may be an option for you. (However, keep in mind that in many cases, third molars -- called "wisdom teeth" -- do not require replacement.) Health is more a factor than is your age. For example, chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. And if you use tobacco, you are at greater risk of experiencing gum disease, which can weaken the bone and tissues needed to support the implant.
Dental Implant
Dental implants are used where there are one or more missing teeth. Implants are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they may also function as a sturdy anchor for dentures. Because they fuse with your jawbone, you will still have a certain amount of sensation when you chew and talk, even though you have an artificial tooth.
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RealAge answeredGetting a dental implant to replace a missing tooth will leave you with moderate short-term pain for long-term gain. During the procedure to insert the implant into your jaw, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the area so you won't feel any pain during the insertion. Afterward, you may experience some pain; most describe it as mild and it's easily treated with over-the-counter painkillers. The pain should go away after a few days. Once the implant has healed, placing the crown or bridge on it won't hurt at all. -
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 8 AnswersDental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or can support a full set of dentures. Implants are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth. They are made of titanium (a strong, lightweight metal) and other materials that are accepted by the human body. -
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RealAge answeredSee All 3 AnswersInsurance does not always cover the cost of dental implants. Some dental insurance plans exclude dental implants as a covered service. Others do allow them, but may pay only a part of your total costs. If your dentist believes you are a good candidate for a dental implant and you have dental insurance, the first step is to contact your insurer to find out in advance what they will pay for. You may also want to discuss with your dental team whether you can set up a payment plan for costs not covered by insurance.
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 7 AnswersThere are several benefits of dental implants:
- an implant is most similar to a natural tooth
- adjacent teeth do not have to be involved in the placement procedure
- implants may decrease or help prevent shrinkage of the jawbone from tooth loss
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 3 AnswersDental implants are a popular and successful way to replace missing teeth and are designed to blend in with your other teeth. They are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. In fact, the development and use of implants is one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years. Dental implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth.
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 4 Answers
If you are interested in dental implants, it's a good idea to discuss it carefully with your dentist first. If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You may be medically evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled.
Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. Patients with these issues may not be good candidates for implants. Using tobacco can also slow healing.
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 4 Answers
There are generally three phases to getting an implant:
- First, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. There may be some swelling and/or tenderness after the surgery, so pain medication is usually prescribed. Your dentist may recommend a diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during the healing process.
- Next comes osseointegration. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. Osseointegration means “combines with the bone” and takes time. Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant. Other patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit.
- Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth. For a single tooth implant, your dentist will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth. Implant-supported bridges or dentures are also made to fit your mouth and your implants. Once completed, the man-made teeth are attached to the implant posts. (Note: The prosthesis usually takes some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.)
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 3 AnswersDental implants are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth. It's a good idea to discuss implant treatment carefully with your dental team. Regular dental visits are key to the long-term success of your implant. Some patients need professional cleanings two to four times per year. Your dentist will set up a program to ensure the health of your implant and your natural teeth.
Your dentist will also suggest a home-care routine to suit your needs. It will include brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. You may also be advised to use a special toothbrush or a mouth rinse to help prevent cavities and gum disease. Look for products that display the American Dental Association's (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. The Seal tells you that the product meets the ADA's standards for safety and effectiveness. -
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredSee All 4 AnswersAs someone who has had one, let me put in my two cents! The procedure did not hurt at all. The surgeon anesthetized the area the same as for a filling, but a few more shots. Then he drilled a hole in the bone for the implant and screwed it in. I actually almost fell asleep until he started screwing it in. It was under 30 minutes, and I walked out of there and went back to work. That afternoon, it was a bit sore, and I took ibuprofen three times a day, and it was all I needed for the next few days. In addition to the implant, I had a sinus lift and bone graft at the same time, and I wasn't even aware he was doing that. Then for a few weeks, I had to be careful brushing near the area so that I didn't brush the tissue around the implant.