Dental Implant FAQ
Dentist Philadelphia
 If you're missing one or more teeth and looking for a permanent solution, dental implants might be the perfect option for you. At Kaiser, Rosen & Kurman Dental Associates we want to provide our patients with answers to the most common questions we get about dental implants, including their benefits, types, and the procedure process. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about your oral health.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants in Philadelphia PA are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. They consist of three main components:
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The implant fixture - a titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone and serves as an artificial tooth root
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The abutment - a connector placed on top of the implant to support your new tooth
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The crown - the visible part of the tooth that is custom-made to match your natural teeth |
Dental implants are a long-term solution for tooth loss and can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. They allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, knowing your replacement teeth are secure and stable.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants. Several factors determine whether dental implants in Philadelphia PA are right for you.
The Health of Your Gums
Healthy gums are essential for successful implant placement. If you have gum disease or severely receding gums, your dentist will need to treat these issues before proceeding with implants. Healthy gums provide the necessary support and strength for the implants, as they need to affix around the implants securely.
Adequate Bone Structure
Dental implants require sufficient jawbone density to support them. If you have insufficient bone or if your bone is too soft, bone grafting may be necessary to rebuild the jawbone to the required size and structure before implant placement.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the success of dental implants. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are necessary to ensure the longevity of your implants. If you cannot commit to proper oral care, dental implants may not be the best option for you.
Lifestyle Factors
Heavy smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants. These habits can affect healing and osseointegration (the process by which the implant fuses with the bone). Your dentist may recommend quitting these habits before implant surgery.
Overall Health Status
Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension, can affect the healing process and success of implants. These conditions should be well-managed before pursuing implant treatment.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The benefits of dental implants in Philadelphia PA stem from their unique design that mimics natural tooth structure. Here's how they work:
Integration with Your Body
Dental implants are typically made from biocompatible materials like titanium, which allows them to fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This integration creates a strong foundation for your replacement teeth and helps prevent bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss.
Supporting Your Dental Prosthetics
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, implants provide stable support for your replacement teeth. This stability prevents the slipping and discomfort often experienced with conventional dentures, allowing you to speak and eat with confidence.
Preserving Jawbone Health
When you lose teeth, your jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates natural bone growth, helping to maintain your facial structure and prevent the sunken appearance that can occur with long-term tooth loss.
What Is the Dental Implant Procedure Like?
The dental implant procedure is typically performed in several stages over a few months:
Initial Consultation and Planning
Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, including dental X-rays and 3D scans, to assess your oral health and determine if you're a suitable candidate for implants. Our team will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Implant Placement Surgery
The implant placement surgery involves inserting the titanium post into your jawbone. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation, so you won't feel pain during the process. Many patients report minimal discomfort afterward and can return to their normal activities within a day or two.
Healing and Osseointegration
After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months is required to allow the implant to fuse with your jawbone. During this time, you may be fitted with a temporary crown or denture.
Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment (connector) is attached to the implant. In some cases, this may be done during the initial implant placement.
Crown Placement
Finally, your custom-made crown is attached to the abutment, completing your new tooth. Your dentist will ensure that the color, shape, and size of your new tooth blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants are considered one of the safest and most predictable dental procedures. The types of dental implants in Philadelphia PA used today have been thoroughly researched and tested for safety and efficacy.
High Success Rate
Dental implants have a success rate of approximately 95 to 98 percent, making them one of the most reliable tooth replacement options available. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
Minimal Risk of Complications
While any surgical procedure carries some risk, complications from dental implant surgery are rare and typically minor. Potential risks include infection at the implant site, damage to surrounding structures, nerve damage, and implant failure. However, these risks are significantly reduced when the procedure is performed by experienced dental professionals like Kaiser, Rosen & Kurman Dental Associates.
Long-term Health Benefits
Beyond restoring your smile, dental implants offer numerous health benefits. They help prevent bone loss, maintain facial structure, allow for proper nutrition through improved chewing ability, and don't require altering adjacent teeth (unlike traditional bridges).
Pain Management
Many patients are concerned about pain associated with implant surgery. However, most report that the discomfort is less than they expected and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. The procedure itself is performed under anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during the surgery.
If you're considering dental implants in Philadelphia PA, consult with our qualified implant dentists to determine if this treatment option is right for you. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a lifetime of beautiful smiles and improved oral health. Give us a call today at 215-464-5600 to schedule a consultation appointment. |
