Dental Implant FAQ

Crowns are useful when a tooth is damaged but the root is still intact. However, if the root has become damaged beyond repair (due to disease or bone loss), a replacement root is needed. Dental implants, in effect, act as a replacement to your original tooth root.

A dental implant replaces your missing tooth root by means of a small titanium post. Since bone responds well to titanium, your jawbone will actually fuse to the titanium post making it a permanent structure in your mouth. This solid foundation is ideal for then attaching dentures, bridges, permanent or removable teeth.

There are several advantages to dental implants.

• Appearance – Dental implants fuse with your jawbone becoming a permanent structure in your mouth. This allows them to look and feel the closest to your natural teeth. They also prevent premature aging of your face by halting the bone loss that commonly comes with lost teeth.
• Self-Esteem – Since they act the most like your normal teeth, you will find it natural to eat and speak with them allowing you to enjoy the same quality of life to which you have grown accustomed.
• Dental Health – Your customized implant will fit well with surrounding teeth. It will also stimulate your jawbone, keeping your mouth healthy and happy.

Dental implants can effectively be used to replace a single tooth or all of your teeth. If you need full or partial dentures, as few as 2-4 implants can be used to secure them. The number of implants you require will depend on the needs of your jawbone and on your budget.

While it is true that the initial cost of implants is higher than the cost of other methods of tooth replacement, our patients find that the long-lasting benefits of implants make them very cost-effective. This investment benefits your overall dental health, the health of your jaw bone and helps you to maintain your desired lifestyle and comfort.

Just like your natural teeth, dental implants benefit most from daily brushing and flossing. It is also recommended you continue regularly scheduled visits to your Auburn dentist for cleanings and exams.  Maintaining these healthy dental habits will ensure you keep your newly placed dental implants for a lifetime.

It is very rare for a dental implant to fail. But what are some of the risk factors that can cause this to occur? On rare occasions, patients are found to be allergic to titanium in which case the titanium post will fail to fuse with the jawbone. If the jawbone develops an infection, this can prevent the fusion of the implant. If one smokes, grinds their teeth or has other specific medical issues, there is a higher risk of dental implant failure. However, if you maintain healthy at home dental habits and see your Auburn dentist on a regular basis, you will likely have your beautiful new dental implants for a lifetime.

Dental implants are ideal for individuals who have missing teeth or are about to have some teeth pulled. To help determine if they are for you, your Auburn dentist will complete a thorough examination including x-rays to ensure the proper health of your jawbone. When complete, your dentist, Dr. Matson, will customize a dental health plan that is just right for you.