Two dental specialists who offer dental implant treatments are periodontists and prosthodontists. Visit them if you have missing teeth that you want to replace, and listen to the available treatment options. The dentists may mention dentures, dental implants and dental bridges. These are all great options, but dental implants offer the best aesthetics. Here are answers to some of the questions you might have about dental implants:

Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Yes, they are. Dental implants offer the most realistic appearance, making it not easy for you or even other people to tell that you have artificial teeth. They may even improve your smile compared to natural teeth that have lost their white colour. However, a dental implant procedure requires surgery, especially when you require many dental implants installed. If you only require one dental implant, it can be installed when you are conscious, but you generally will need numbing.

You might be concerned about whether or not you are a good candidate for dental implants and if you can afford them. To figure out whether you are a good candidate for dental implants, a dentist has to carry out tests to ensure that your health will not put you at risk if general anaesthesia is administered. They have to also ensure that your jawbone is strong enough to support a dental implant. If not, you may likely not be the right candidate for this procedure.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

During the process, you will not feel anything because you will either be unconscious or numbed. However, when the surgery is complete and you are awake, you may feel some discomfort or mild pain; your dentist will have already started a pain relief drip to help keep you pain-free and comfortable. However, since different people have varying pain tolerance levels, if you feel severe pain, inform your dentist so that they can relieve you from it.

How Long Does It Take to Heal from a Dental Implant Procedure?

A dental implant procedure is usually performed in two stages: installing the dental implant in your jawbone being the first stage and attaching a dental crown as the second stage.

Some people heal fast, while others heal slowly; this indicates that there is no exact healing period. That said, expect to recover from dental implant surgery between four and eight weeks. You may, however, be required to visit the dental clinic regularly for monitoring. A second treatment for dental crown placement is also required after you have healed from the first treatment.

Contact a dentist for more information.