Losing one or more teeth can cause oral health issues and lead to lost confidence due to appearance. Luckily, dental implants can be a long-term solution for those who are good candidates. If you are considering this treatment, the answers to these frequently asked questions delve deeper into the process.

4 FAQ About Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

While a dental implant isn’t an actual tooth, it looks and functions the same. It is typically comprised of a thin titanium alloy rod that goes into the jawbone and a prosthetic porcelain tooth. The bone will start to grow around the rod (osseointegrate), with a more secure hold after three to six months of healing. 

How are implants different from dentures?

While dentures are often more affordable than implants, they must be secured with adhesive to fit properly. They also require dental visits every few years for a replacement.

On the other hand, dental implants are permanent and durable. The titanium rod is strong enough to last a lifetime, while the porcelain prosthetic can last up to 25 years with good oral health and regular preventative dental care.

Are dental implants right for me?

If you have one or more missing teeth and sufficient bone in your jaw, you may be a good candidate for dental implants. If you have bone loss in your jaw but don’t want to wear dentures, your dentist may still be able to do the treatment through bone grafting. During this process, the dentist uses a bone graft to fill a less dense space.  There are several options for the bone graft material, which should be discussed with your dental surgeon.  

How do I care for my implants?

Proper maintenance is essential when it comes to making your implants last. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day will help avoid irritating your gums or damaging the porcelain tooth.  Sometimes your dentist or dental hygienist will recommend additional hygiene tools to keep the implant clean – we love to answer your questions and often have a sample to share!

It is best to stay away from oral hygiene products such as whitening toothpaste or mouthwash containing alcohol, as they can dry out your mouth, which makes it difficult for your saliva to “cleanse” your teeth and crowns. Additionally, avoiding sticky and hard foods like caramel, hard candies, and dried fruit will help keep your implants healthy and damage-free.

If you are considering dental implants, contact Steckelberg Dental in Lincoln, NE. This reliable dental practice specializes in a wide variety of treatments including implants, crowns, and tooth extractions. They are also equipped to treat patients of all ages. For more information about their services, visit them online. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 489-7800 today.