Dental implants are the most comfortable, natural-looking alternative to natural teeth. Implants preserve the bone tissue and act and look like natural teeth, allowing you to eat and speak clearly. They can replace one or many missing teeth. Discover more about implant dentistry in our offices in our Lexington and Concord, MA, offices.
Are Dental Implants Right For Me?
Technology advancements have made it possible for almost anyone to be a candidate for dental implants. Missing teeth can be embarrassing and make it hard to speak clearly or eat the foods you love. The old solutions to missing teeth were dentures, bridges, and crowns. However, these solutions provide only short-term results and can be hard to maintain.
During your dental implant consultation, the doctor will evaluate your mouth. Our dentist will determine the best dental implant procedure to meet your needs. Implants are a viable option for most patients. Dental implant treatment has even been performed on patients with diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Patients who have any of the following conditions will need to discuss their options with the dentist:
- Existing Dental Work – Implants can reinforce or replace existing dental work, such as bridges or dentures. We will work with you to see if you can receive implants to secure your restoration.
- Bone Loss – As long as enough bone tissue is in the area, dental implants may still be successful. If there is not enough bone, you will need bone grafting procedures before we can place an implant.
- Existing Medical Conditions – Discuss any medications or medical conditions with your doctor. Generally, you can undergo the dental implant procedure if you can have typical dental work done.
- Gum Disease – Gum disease can affect the success of a dental implant. Patients with moderate to severe gum disease may require treatment before implant placement.
- Smoking Habit – Discuss how often you smoke with your doctor. Smoking can affect the implant’s success and your overall dental health. Often, implants can fail if you smoke while the posts heal.
Steps Towards Healthy Bones
Preserving your bone health is vital to your overall and oral health. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that you have optimal bone health:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin D and calcium. Vitamins and minerals keep the bones strong to benefit your teeth and other bones.
- Exercise regularly. Weight-bearing activities like walking, jogging, dancing, and weight training are best for strengthening bones.
- Do not smoke; limit alcohol consumption.
- Report any issues with loose teeth, detached or receding gums, or ill-fitting dentures to your dentist immediately. These problems can worsen over time.
Implant Dentistry FAQs
Read answers to commonly asked questions about dental implants:
Should I consider dental implants?
Missing teeth affect your oral health and quality of life. Without tooth replacement, your smile is less attractive. You may experience pain or difficulty eating and speaking, which can be embarrassing. Dental implants can prevent these concerns because they act as natural teeth.
What are some benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants are a safe, predictable solution for replacing missing teeth. Implants look and feel like your natural teeth. Patients with implants experience improved taste and appetite as they can chew without pain or discomfort.
Dental implants also improve the look of your teeth. Implant restorations can rebuild your smile and preserve your facial structure. Your overall quality of life can improve with dental implants.
Are there limitations to who is eligible for dental implants?
There are minimal limitations as to who is eligible for implants. They are suitable for all ages, provided there is enough bone to set the implants. As long as patients can get in good oral health, they can receive implants.
How successful are implants?
Implants successfully fuse with the jaw bone in 97% of cases. If implants fail, your doctor will try to place the implant in a slightly different location within the jaw to promote better integration. An infection or tobacco use will increase the risk of implant failure. Before implant treatment, we will give you instructions on how to prepare for treatment.
Is implant surgery painful?
No. We use anesthetic before and during surgery. This ensures you do not feel pain or discomfort throughout the procedure. Usually, your doctor will prescribe post-operative pain medication. This will minimize any discomfort that occurs after the surgery.
When can I return to work?
You can often return to work the next day after implant treatment. However, it will often depend on your restoration. Your doctor will discuss your post-operative care plan with you before the procedure.
Does dental insurance cover dental implants?
Certain policies may cover implants. However, coverage is generally limited to what is covered for bridges or dentures.
How do you care for dental implants?
Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth. You can brush your teeth with a manual or electric toothbrush. We recommend that you floss before you brush your teeth. Remember to schedule regular dental check-ups. Unlike bridges and dentures, you do not need to rebase or replace implant restorations. The implant posts will stay in the jaw.
What will happen if I do not choose implants?
If you do not choose dental implants, you will experience steady, gradual bone loss. This loss can create more problems with your remaining healthy teeth. Bone loss can eventually impact your denture fit, facial appearance, and diet.
Replace missing teeth before these side effects occur. The risks of waiting to replace teeth may make it more difficult to get dental implants.
Restore Your Smile
Renew the full function of your smile with our implant services. Receive treatment with implant dentistry in Lexington and Concord, MA. Contact our Lexington office at 781.384.5892 or our Concord office at 978.391.6081.
If you are interested in implants but have more questions, let us know at your next visit. We want to help you find the best restoration to replace missing teeth.
For more information about our implant dentistry in Concord, MA, visit: