Dental Implants FAQs in Philadelphia
How long will implants last?
The crowns placed on the implants can last for decades but may need replacing after a few decades due to normal wear and tear. Dental implants are not susceptible to dental decay and never require root canals! Like natural teeth, implants require regular oral hygiene in order to keep your gums healthy. Not all dental implants are created equal, however, and it is important that your dental implant treatment is completed by a specialist with advanced expertise in the field of implant dentistry. All of our doctors at Laudenbach Periodontics and Dental Implants are specialists in dental implant care.
How much are dental implants?
It is impossible to estimate the cost of dental implants without properly evaluating your oral health, reviewing digital images, and discussing your dental care goals. Among the variables we consider are the cost of bone grafts if needed, the length of the procedure, and how many implants you need. Please contact our office at Philadelphia PA Periodontics Office Phone Number 215-985-4337 to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to give you a quote after a comprehensive evaluation by one of our dental implant specialists.
How much time does dental implant treatment require?
The process of having a dental implant placed is a very short and routine procedure for our patients. The overall timeline of replacing your natural teeth with dental implants can vary depending upon your situation. In some cases your dental implant will be ready to support a new tooth in as little as three months! In other cases bone augmentation is required before or during the placement of your dental implant. Bone is a slow growing tissue and we may recommend a waiting period of six to nine months before you are ready for your new teeth. Due to a variety of advances in dental implant design and technology, in many cases temporary teeth can be attached to your dental implant during the bone healing phase. We will review these considerations and treatment options with you in your comprehensive evaluation with one of our dental implant specialists.
Does dental implant treatment hurt?
Absolutely not! Our office goes to great lengths to ensure that you are comfortable throughout treatment. Dental implant placement is a short treatment completed after careful numbing of the treatment area. Patients usually are aware of water and vibration during the process but experience no discomfort. For those patients who have anxiety during routine dental treatments we are able to provide anti-anxiety medication and or nitrous oxide to help them feel more relaxed. Following implant treatment most patients experience virtually no discomfort. We recommend that our patients take Sinecch Arnica Montana capsules following treatment along with over-the-counter pain medication.
Will dental implants feel like my natural teeth?
Yes! Dental implants look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. No one but a dentist will be able to tell your implants are not your natural teeth.
How many implants will I need?
If you replace one or a few missing teeth, you may benefit from an individual implant for each replacement tooth known as a “crown.” For patients replacing several or all of their teeth, we typically recommend anywhere from two to 6 implants depending upon your situation. Your new teeth will be connected together as “bridge” that is supported and held in place by your new dental implants.
Is dental implant treatment risky?
With a success rate of 98% and a low incidence of complications, dental implant treatment is a low risk procedure. In fact, it is an excellent choice for preventing future problems, as implants do not develop cavities, plaque, or tartar. They also strengthen the jawbone and prevent it from deteriorating.
Do I have to remove my dental implant teeth at night?
No! This is one of the most significant advantages of dental implants. Once the permanent crown or denture is in place, you never have to remove them, and they do not shift or slip. Simply brush and floss as you do with your natural teeth to clean your new teeth.
Will I be able to chew and smile with dental implants?
Absolutely! You’ll probably smile more often because your new teeth will be beautiful. Anything you can do with natural teeth, you can do with dental implants once healing is complete.
What is gum recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum margin “recedes” and exposes the “root surface” of your teeth. The root surface of your teeth is softer and more yellow in color when compared to the enamel covered “crown” of your teeth.
Why should my gum recession be treated?
We are likely to recommend treatment of gum recession in the following situations:
- Exposed root surfaces associated with gum recession are more susceptible to dental decay
- Rapid wear of the hard root surface due to abrasion brushing and normal function.
- Sensitive root surfaces due to exposed nerve endings.
- Some patients find that the exposed yellow root surface is visible and unappealing in their smile.
- Rapidly increasing root exposure
- The surrounding volume of soft tissue is very thin and is at high risk for progressive recession.
- A muscle related to the lip or cheek is pulling on the gum tissue margin and accelerating gum recession.
Treatment of the exposed root surface will cover and protect the root surface and prevent the area from further deterioration.
When are soft tissue grafts necessary?
Soft tissue grafting is typically recommended to help cover the exposed root surface and to regenerate and restore the natural support for your tooth. While minimal recession may not be a problem, it may progress rapidly and may eventually need tissue grafts.
In some situations it is not possible to cover the exposed root surface with soft tissue but the surrounding soft tissue is thin. In these situations a soft tissue graft is recommended to thicken the surrounding soft tissue, release any active muscle pull on the gum margin, and to prevent further progression of gingival recession.
Why is gum recession bad?
Your gums protect the roots of your teeth from bacteria, infection, and trauma. The roots of your teeth do not have the same layer of protective enamel as the crowns, so they are more susceptible to cavities and other problems. When the roots of your teeth are exposed, they are prone to cavities and disease, and may become loose. Exposed roots are also sensitive to hot and cold, making it painful to eat or drink anything hot or cold.
Experience the Life-Changing Benefits of Dental Implants in Philadelphia
Discover the transformative power of dental implants and regain your confident smile. Benefit from advanced implant placement techniques by scheduling a consultation today!