Dental Implant FAQs in Indianapolis and Central Indiana
- Will I have temporary teeth during the healing phase?
- Do dental implants hurt?
- Do dental implants feel like real teeth?
- Will I need to miss work for dental implant surgery?
- What are single-stage implants?
- What if I am missing a lot of teeth?
- What are the risks and complications associated with dental implants?
- How long do dental implants last?
- When will I have my permanent teeth?
- How do I care for my dental implants?
Will I have temporary teeth during the healing phase?
Healing from tooth extractions and dental implants takes several months, and most patients will choose some sort of temporary tooth (or teeth) in visible areas during this period of time. There are removable and attached options that your dentist can provide to help hide missing teeth while you are in the middle of treatment phases. The type of appliance depends on the individual’s occlusion (bite), the condition of their adjacent teeth, and their budget.
Do dental implants hurt?
Dental implants can be placed comfortably with local anesthesia (numbing injections). Many first-time dental implant patients are anxious about the procedure because it “sounds” more invasive than most dentistry with which they are familiar. Placing a dental implant is gentler and more precise than most tooth extractions; and during the procedure you should feel no pain. After the numbness has worn off from a single-implant procedure, there is typically less than two days of mild-to-moderate post-operative pain that can be managed with non-opioid medications.
Do dental implants feel like real teeth?
Yes! Your dental implant will feel, look and function very similar to your natural teeth. You will be eating all the foods that you used to enjoy with your new tooth before you know it!
Will I need to miss work for dental implant surgery?
This really depends on how much you have done. If a single implant is placed with local anesthesia, you may not need to miss any work afterward. On the other hand, if you are having multiple implants with bone grafting under IV sedation, you may miss a couple days. It is best to discuss this with your surgeon ahead of time.
What are single-stage implants?
In most cases, we can place the implant and allow the gum tissue to heal around a temporary healing cap. This way, we can avoid a second surgical procedure to uncover the dental implant during the abutment/restoration stage.
What if I am missing a lot of teeth?
If you are missing many teeth, implant-supported dentures can give you a full arch of prosthetic teeth attached to just a few implants. This option is a great solution for those who need the quantity of teeth provided by a denture, but don’t want the hassle associated with it.
What are the risks and complications associated with dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of up to 95% and the procedure has been around for decades, with continual improvements and discoveries made all along the way. The risks are very low, and closely resemble those of other minor surgical procedures (infection, injury to adjacent teeth, etc.). Unfortunately, there are some circumstances where a patient’s bone is thought to be healthy, but it does not fuse to the implant and the implant must be removed.
How long do dental implants last?
Studies have shown that properly placed and well cared-for dental implants can last as long as 25 years. The chances of an implant developing problems leading to its loss or removal are greater if you smoke or have a history of periodontal disease (bone loss around natural teeth). Advanced technology and experience enable us to give you the very best shot at keeping yours for life!
When will I have my permanent teeth?
Most permanent restorations are placed 3 months after implant placement.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Care for your dental implants just like you do your natural teeth: by brushing after each meal and flossing once daily. Take good care of them and they will take care of you!
Are you ready to replace your missing teeth and restore your smile?
Call Administration Office Phone Number 317-913-2363 and select option 1 to schedule your consultation at one of our conveniently located offices.