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Dental Implant FAQs

If you haven’t had a dental implant before, you will undoubtedly have a number of questions about what is involved and what to expect. Any questions or concerns you have can be discussed with your dental implant surgeon or Oral Surgeon at the New York Institute of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Brooklyn, NY at your consultation; but we have also compiled a list of some of our most frequently asked questions below.

How are dental implants placed?

The placement of dental implants is a surgical process that is carefully pre-planned using state of the art technology. An incision is made into the gum where the implant will be, and then tools will be used to create the hole into which the post will be placed. Once in place, the gum will be secured back over the post while it heals. This is done using sutures. Once the post has healed and integrated with the jawbone, the visible part of the structure – a porcelain crown – will be placed and the restoration will be complete.

Does getting dental implants hurt?

Pain is one of the most common worries of patients undergoing any dental treatment. Dental implant surgery is carried out using local anesthetic, and this numbs the mouth so that you shouldn’t experience any pain. However, the process is surgical and your mouth will need time to heal. While this happens, some swelling, and discomfort is normal. Over the counter pain relief should be sufficient to manage your discomfort.

I am scared of dental treatments; can I still get dental implants?

Anxiety about visiting the dentist or oral surgeon is nothing unusual and some trepidation is perfectly normal. However, if your fear is significant and could prevent you from receiving the care that you need, you may be eligible for sedation. This is where sedative medications are used during the surgery to keep you calm and relaxed. If you are interested in sedation, please let us know at your consultation and we can discuss your options.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for dental implants?

All patients are comprehensively assessed for their candidacy for dental implants before they are approved for the procedure. This process will involve evaluating a range of different factors, including:

  • How many teeth need replaced
  • Your current oral health
  • The health of your gums
  • Your general wellbeing
  • The density and health of your jawbone
  • Whether or not you smoke
  • Your commitment to your oral health

The importance of each of these factors will be explained to during your consultation at the New York Institute of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Using this information, they will be able to advise you if you can have dental implants or if an alternative solution would be more appropriate.

Am I too old/young to have dental implants?

Tooth removal is always the last resort, meaning that it is rare for young people to require a dental implant. While there is no upper age limit on replacing your missing teeth with dental implant, the treatment isn’t recommended for patients under the age of 18 as the jaw is still growing and the bone tissue hasn’t fully developed yet.

Can I have my denture replaced with dental implants?

Dental implants are an incredibly versatile solution and can be used to replace single teeth or to support bridges or dentures. Bridges can usually be supported on two implant posts, while dentures usually require between six and eight.

I’ve been told I need a bone graft before I can have dental implants, why is that?

The success of dental implants relies heavily on patients having enough healthy bone in their jaw. This is because the bone heals around the implant post to secure it in position. Without enough healthy bone in the jaw this might not happen, and this could cause the implant to fail. However, it is possible to have additional bone grafted onto your jaw which could make it possible for you to receive implants later on.

How long do dental implants last?

If you take care of them as recommended and visit your dentist to have them checked regularly, there’s no reason why your implants can’t last as long as your natural teeth!

If you haven’t found the answers that you are looking for here, don’t hesitate to contact us at (718) 557-9478 to speak with our team at the New York Institute of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery today.

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