Dental implants are a great option if you’re looking to replace missing or broken teeth. The implant itself is an artificial tooth root that has a crown attached at the top to fill in the gap of a missing tooth. They can also be used to prevent jaw bone loss and preserve facial features in people who have issues with bone density. Below are some common questions that patients ask our Rock Hill dentist.

#1: What Is Considered When Being Evaluated?

Our dentist will look at the health of your teeth, gums, and bones during your evaluation. Bone density will be analyzed with x-rays to ensure that there is enough bone to anchor the implant. If not, you may require skin or bone grafts to ensure that the implant is successful.

Our dentist will also discuss hygiene or health issues that need to be resolved before beginning implant treatment. You will receive a custom plan detailing the cost of your treatment and the length of the process.

#2: Are Dental Implants Painful?

During the procedure, local anesthetic or sedation may be used, depending on what you agree upon with our dentist. Anesthetics will numb the pain during the surgery.

Dental implants may be temporarily uncomfortable after the procedure. There may be bruising around the implant site, and bleeding or swelling of your gums. This should go away within a week. Our dentist can provide pain medication if necessary.

#3: How to Care for Dental Implants After Surgery 

Healing can take up to six months. You will be advised to eat only soft foods for a week following your implant being placed. It is extremely important to keep the implants clean after the procedure. There is a chance that the implant will not fuse to the bone structure properly and fail. However, with regular brushing and flossing, there is a high likelihood of success.

Smokers are advised to quit if they opt for implants, as there is a higher risk of failure and infection. If these guidelines are followed and proper hygiene is kept up, implants can last for decades!

Call Our Rock Hill Dentist Today to Inquire About Dental Implants!

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other dentistry-related topics, feel free to contact Culp Dental by clicking here or by calling 803-324-2921.