Considering dental implants to restore your smile? At Fenton Family Dental in Silver Spring, MD, we understand that choosing implants is a big decision, and you likely have questions. Below, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about dental implants to help you feel more informed and confident about your options.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once healed, they serve as the foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures that look and function like natural teeth.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or more, and often a lifetime. The implant itself is designed to be permanent, while the attached restoration (such as a crown) may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.
Is The Dental Implant Procedure Painful?
Most patients report some discomfort after the procedure. Local anesthesia or sedation is used during surgery to ensure comfort. Some soreness or swelling afterward is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
How Long Does The Process Take?
The timeline can vary depending on your needs. For many patients, the process—from consultation to final restoration—takes several months, including healing time. In some cases, temporary teeth can be placed the same day as surgery.
Am I A Candidate For Dental Implants?
You may be a candidate if you have one or more missing teeth, good oral health, and enough jawbone to support implants. Even if you’ve been told you aren’t eligible in the past, modern techniques like bone grafting may make implants possible.
What If I Don’t Have Enough Bone For Implants?
If you have bone loss in your jaw, procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts may be recommended to rebuild the bone and support the implant. We’ll assess your bone density during your consultation to determine the best approach.
How Do I Care For Dental Implants?
Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups are essential. While implants don’t decay, keeping your gums healthy is crucial to preventing complications like peri-implantitis.
Will My Dental Implants Look Natural?
Yes! At Fenton Family Dental, we customize each implant restoration to match your surrounding teeth in shape, size, and color. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Can Dental Implants Replace All My Teeth?
Absolutely. If you’re missing all of your teeth, full-arch implant solutions—such as fixed new teeth—can restore an entire upper or lower arch with just a few implants. This is a permanent, secure alternative to traditional dentures.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on several factors, including the number of implants, the type of restoration, and any preparatory procedures. We offer free consultations to evaluate your needs and provide a personalized cost estimate.
Will Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
Insurance coverage depends on your specific plan. Some policies cover parts of the treatment, like the crown or preparatory work. Our team will help you review your benefits and explore flexible financing options to make treatment accessible.
Still Have Questions? We’re Here To Help.
Dental implants are a powerful solution for restoring health, function, and confidence. At Fenton Family Dental in Silver Spring, MD, we’re committed to helping you understand every aspect of treatment so you can move forward with peace of mind.
Schedule your free dental implant consultation today to get personalized answers, expert care, and a plan designed just for you.
