Dental Implant FAQs - Key Facts and Insights

Are you considering dental implants to restore and brighten your smile? A full smile can improve confidence, make it easier to eat, and offer other benefits as well. Dr. Maggie Olano and Dr. Mariano Polack at Dental Design in Gainesville, VA have helped countless patients improve their smiles with implants and other procedures.

Not sure if implants are right for you? Let’s take a look at some key dental implant FAQs.

What Are Dental Implants?

Sometimes people use the term “dental implant” to refer to replacement teeth. However, this isn’t quite correct. A dental implant is a small post, often made from titanium, that looks like a screw. It is attached to your jaw and inserted into your gums. A crown or other prosthetic is then attached to the implant. Together, they form a restorative tooth that can complete your smile.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Many people can get dental implants. However, you must have sufficient jaw bone matter to insert the implant. A dentist will check to make sure that you have enough bone, and also that it’s dense and strong enough to act as a foundation. Age, health, and other factors may impact whether you’re a candidate for dental implants.

If you’re considering dental implants, it’s wise to work with a dentist to determine you’re a candidate. Visit Dental Design in Gainesville, VA and we'll determine if you’re eligible.

How Expensive Are Dental Implants?

Costs can vary a lot from patient to patient and procedure to procedure. That said, throughout their lifetime, dental implants and the right prosthetics are often among the most affordable options. High-quality dental implants can last a lifetime whereas other solutions may break down.

Further, dental implants may reduce the risk of infections and other serious complications. Not only could this save you from a lot of pain, it could prevent expensive but necessary medical treatment further on down the line.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Besides being an affordable and long-lasting solution, dental implants provide a number of other benefits. You can enjoy a full, confident smile with implants. This will help ensure that you make good impressions.

You can also eat whatever you want. While dentures and other solutions might slide or otherwise struggle with certain foods, dental implants don’t. Dental implants may also prevent infections and other health problems, like jaw bone loss.

How Common Are Dental Implants?

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, roughly 3 million people in the United States alone have dental implants right now. Each year, about half a million dental implants are installed.

There’s a good chance that you know someone with dental implants, even if they never told you. If you see someone with implants smile, you probably won’t even notice the implants.

I’m Considering Dental Implants. What’s Next?

It’s time to talk to a dentist, and specifically, a dentist who specializes in prosthodontics and periodontist dentistry.  If you have further questions about implants, feel free to reach out to Dental Design in Gainesville, VA.  Dr. Olano or Dr. Polack would be happy to assist. Call (703) 753-8753 to schedule your appointment.