So much of the content and information out there relating to dental implants focuses on benefits and how dental implants are designed to restore the natural sparkle in your smile.
But amid this information on why dental implants are so great for your confidence, the finer points can often get lost – overlooking the details that clients and patients really need and want to know before going ahead with a treatment.
In this blog post, we spoke to dental implant Essex specialists to uncover some of the most commonly asked questions – and their answers – for your benefit.
What is a dental implant?
Time for some myth-busting here, because did you know that the term dental implant does not refer directly to the false tooth which restores your wide grin? In fact, the dental implant is the screw which is embedded into the gums which line your smile – establishing a secure base on which to fit your shiny new tooth.
This is why, when you hear dentists talk about the dental implant process, you will hear them say that once the implant has been fixed it requires an extensive healing period before the tooth can be fixed. More on this later…
How long does the full process actually take?
While the implant surgery itself is relatively straightforward and will not take too much time out of your day, the real-time constraint comes from the healing process.
The initial consultations and surgery are all fairly short appointments – but it will take upwards of two months for the site to heal and the implant to become firmly rooted in your jawline and gums before the replacement tooth can be fixed and the process completed. So, this needs to be factored into the full treatment time.
How do I know if I’m the right fit for dental implants?
Unfortunately, being eligible and a “good fit” for dental implants is not as simple as having a gap in your smile that you want to close or plug with a replacement tooth. There are other factors at play which affect the likelihood of a dental implant successfully rooting itself in your smile – including your overall health, any lifestyle habits like smoking, and even the occlusion of your teeth and how naturally straight your teeth are.
Your dentist or consultant will be able to advise on whether you are a good fit early in the consultation process, suggesting alternatives if dental implants are not right for you.
Does it hurt?
You won’t be surprised to learn that this is the most common question we get asked – and the answer for most is pleasantly surprising!
While there is some discomfort that you should expect, especially in the post-surgery recovery phase, this is a straightforward process which delivers long-lasting and highly durable results. It is by far the best and most effective way of boosting confidence and restoring your smile – and best of all, it’s available under the guidance of some of Essex’s leading dental specialists.
To find out more, get in touch with your local practice today.
