FAQs

July 12, 2025

Dental implants are designed to be permanent and 90-95% of them are successful over 10 years [3]. Many dental implants last 20 years or more; however, the implant may last longer than the crown.

How painful is getting a dental implant? You shouldn’t feel any pain during your dental implant procedure because your provider will use medication to numb your gums. After your surgery, it’s normal to have slight discomfort and swelling. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help ease these symptoms.

A dental implant is a metal post that replaces the root portion of a missing tooth. A dental professional places an artificial tooth, also known as a crown, on an extension of the post of the dental implant, giving you the look of a real tooth. This extension is known as an abutment.

Dental bridges are generally strong and can effectively restore function and aesthetics. However, their durability depends on proper care, with an average lifespan of 5-15 years, while dental implants may offer a more permanent solution.

The cost of a dental implant can vary significantly depending on several factors. However, the average cost of dental implants per tooth can range from $1,500 to $6,000. This includes the cost of both the implant and the artificial tooth that is placed on top of it.

The good news is that modern dental implants are designed to closely resemble your real teeth, both in appearance and functionality.

Problems or complications from dental implant surgery can happen shortly after the procedure or years later. Early dental failure occurs within the first three to four months of the procedure. Keep in mind that you’ll experience some degree of pain or discomfort after surgery, which you can manage with pain medication.

No, You Can’t Get Cavities in Your Dental Implants

They are made of a titanium screw that acts as a tooth root, which is then covered with a zirconia crown. This strong zirconia crown looks and acts like a natural tooth, but can’t be penetrated by plaque and bacteria, or decay like a natural tooth.

Common Side Effects and Their Underlying Causes

Among the more common side effects of dental implants are inflammation, infection, and discomfort, to name a few. Inflammation typically occurs as the body responds to the implant as a foreign object and begins to heal.

Risks

  • Pain in the back or stomach area.
  • Changes to your period. It may stop completely. This is called amenorrhea.
  • Higher risk of noncancerous, or benign, ovarian cysts.
  • Lower sex drive.
  • Dizziness.
  • Headaches.
  • Mild insulin resistance.
  • Mood swings and depression.

Depending on the quality of the bone and the size of the implants, initial healing may take 7-10 days, but the implant will fully integrate into the bone and be ready for the restorative phase of your therapy in 3-6 months! In addition, lifestyle choices may significantly impact your dental implant healing time.

Dentures are more affordable initially but have eating limitations and should be replaced every 5-7 years with the potential need for relines or adjustments. Implants are an investment but offer a permanent, natural-feeling solution.

The Ideal Age: A Case-by-Case Basis

Adults: The prime age for dental implants is often considered to be between 35 and 55, when overall health is generally good, and bone density is adequate

The short answer is yes, dental implants can be removed. However, only a qualified and experienced dental professional should do this procedure. This article will discuss the reasons for removing dental implants and the process involved.

Benefits of dental implants

You have dental implants when your dentist does not want to put crowns (caps) on healthy teeth. Implants are also useful if dentures or bridges would be difficult or impossible because there are no suitable teeth or gums to support them.

Most often, your gums are closed over the implants, so you won’t be able to feel them. In terms of bite, they will feel like natural teeth after you’ve recovered.

The titanium material used in a majority of dental implants is one of the best that can be used. However, it is still possible for patients to be allergic and reject it or for the biological growth process to be hindered.

Risks include: Infection at the implant site. Injury or damage to surrounding structures, such as other teeth or blood vessels. Nerve damage, which can cause pain, numbness or tingling in your natural teeth, gums, lips or chin.

If you’ve been longing for a juicy steak, it’s entirely possible to eat one with dental implants. However, they can be difficult to chew, putting unnecessary wear and tear on your new smile. If you can’t resist a steak, tenderize it before you cook it. Cut it into small pieces to make it easier to chew.

Some of the main disadvantages of dental implants include the risk of infection, potential damage to surrounding teeth and nerves, and possible failure of the implant to integrate with the jawbone

Three to fourteen days – Continue drinking cool liquids. Eat soft food that does not require any chewing. Applesauce, yogurt, protein shakes, broths, and smoothies are examples. Fifteen days to twelve weeks – Eat soft food that requires minimal chewing.

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