Dental Implant FAQs

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. These posts serve as a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures, providing a permanent and natural-looking solution for tooth loss. Implants restore both the function and appearance of your teeth, helping you regain your confidence and smile.

Most healthy adults are candidates for dental implants, provided they have sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implants. If you have lost bone due to missing teeth, we may recommend bone grafting before implant placement. During your consultation at Kentlands Dental Group, we will assess your oral health, medical history, and overall suitability for implants.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Implants are designed to be durable and stable, offering a long-term solution for missing teeth. However, the restorations placed on the implants (such as crowns or bridges) may need to be replaced after several years due to wear and tear.

The dental implant procedure is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the treatment. While some discomfort or swelling is normal after the procedure, it is usually mild and can be managed with prescribed medications. Most patients return to their normal activities within a few days.

The entire dental implant process typically takes several months, as it involves multiple stages. After the implant post is placed, it needs time to integrate with the bone (a process called osseointegration), which can take 3 to 6 months. Once healing is complete, your custom restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) will be placed, completing the process.

Yes, dental implants can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. In cases where several teeth are missing, implant-supported bridges or full-arch restorations (such as All-on-X) can be used to restore your smile and functionality. These solutions offer a secure, permanent alternative to traditional dentures.

Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional dentures:

• Stability: Implants are securely anchored in the jaw, eliminating the discomfort and slipping associated with dentures.
• Durability: Implants are long-lasting and designed to withstand the everyday wear and tear of chewing and speaking.
• Improved Function: Implants restore up to 98% of your original bite function, allowing you to eat and speak comfortably.
• Natural Appearance: Implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
• Preserved Bone Health: Implants help preserve bone density by stimulating the jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth.

The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants needed, the type of restoration, and any additional procedures (such as bone grafting). During your consultation at Kentlands Dental Group, we will provide a detailed treatment plan with transparent pricing. We also offer financing options to make implants more affordable for our patients.

Taking care of your dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, visit your dentist for routine checkups, and avoid habits that could damage your implants, such as chewing on hard objects. With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime.

Dental implant coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Our team at Kentlands Dental Group will help you understand your insurance benefits and assist with processing claims. We also offer flexible payment plans to make dental implants more accessible.