Dental Implants FAQ
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots (usually titanium or zirconia) placed in the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with missing teeth, healthy gums, and enough jawbone (or who can get bone grafting) can get implants.
What are the benefits of dental implants over bridges or dentures?
Implants look natural, don’t damage nearby teeth, last long, improve chewing, and help prevent bone loss.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes. Dental implants are a widely used, well-researched treatment with high success rates when done properly.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, implants can last 15–25 years or more. The crown may need replacement later.
Is dental implant surgery painful?
Implant placement is done under local anesthesia, so pain is minimal. Mild soreness for a few days is normal.
How long does the implant process take?
It can take 3–6 months (or more) depending on healing, bone quality, and whether grafting is needed. Some cases allow faster options.
How many visits are needed for implants?
Typically 3–6 visits: consultation, surgery, healing checks, impressions, crown placement, and follow-ups.
What tests are needed before dental implants?
Clinical exam + X-rays/OPG and usually CBCT scan to check bone and plan implant position safely.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Often 95%+ in healthy patients; success depends on bone, oral hygiene, medical conditions, and smoking habits.
What are endosteal implants?
The most common type placed directly into the jawbone like a screw and later fitted with a crown/bridge.
What are subperiosteal implants?
Placed on top of the jawbone under the gum (less common today), used when bone height is insufficient and grafting isn’t possible.
What are zygomatic implants?
Long implants anchored in the cheekbone, used for severe upper jaw bone loss (advanced cases).
What’s the difference between titanium and zirconia implants?
Titanium is most common and proven. Zirconia is metal-free and may suit patients with specific preferences, but case selection matters.
Are “mini dental implants” different from regular implants?
Yes, mini implants are thinner and used in limited bone cases or for denture stabilization; they may not suit heavy chewing forces.
Can I replace a single missing tooth with an implant?
Yes, a single implant with a crown replaces one tooth without affecting neighboring teeth.
How are multiple missing teeth replaced with implants?
Options include implant-supported bridges (fewer implants supporting multiple teeth) or individual implants.
What are full mouth dental implants?
A fixed set of teeth supported by multiple implants in the upper/lower jaw for patients missing most or all teeth.
What is All-on-4 dental implant treatment?
A full-arch solution using 4 implants to support a fixed teeth set, often avoiding extensive grafting in suitable cases.
What is All-on-6 Implant
Similar to All-on-4 but uses 6 implants for extra support—often preferred when bone and bite forces require it.
What is an implant-supported denture?
A removable denture that snaps onto implants for better stability compared to normal dentures.
What is a fixed implant bridge?
A non-removable bridge screwed or cemented onto implants—feels closest to natural teeth.
What are immediate dental implants?
Implants placed immediately after tooth extraction in the same appointment, when conditions are ideal.
Can I get teeth in one day with implants?
In some cases, yes “immediate loading” can provide temporary fixed teeth quickly, followed by final teeth after healing.
Are same-day implants safe and successful?
They can be successful with proper case selection, good bone stability, and controlled bite forces.
What if I don’t have enough bone for implants?
Bone grafting, sinus lift, ridge augmentation, or alternative implant options (like zygomatic) may be recommended.
What is a sinus lift?
A procedure to increase bone height in the upper back jaw by lifting the sinus membrane and adding bone graft.
What affects the cost of dental implants?
Implant brand, number of implants, type of crown, scans, bone grafting/sinus lift needs, and complexity of the case.
What are the risks or complications of dental implants?
Infection, implant loosening, gum issues, nerve/sinus complications (rare), and implant failure—risk reduces with proper planning and hygiene.
How do I care for dental implants?
Brush twice daily, floss/interdental cleaning, avoid smoking, regular dental checkups, and professional cleaning.