You probably hear a lot about dental implants these days, and for good reason. They’re a popular alternative to traditional dentures or dental bridges and though they are more of an investment, implants stay put at all times and seamlessly blend in with the rest of your smile. Our Cooper City dental implant dentists can meet with you one-on-one to explore this option if you’re interested.
In the meantime, browse the list of commonly asked questions below to learn more about this restorative option.
1. What Exactly Is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are placed into the jawbone. Once healed, they support a custom abutment (connector piece) and porcelain dental crown to look and function like a natural tooth. Because implants fuse with the bone, they are considered one of the most reliable options for permanent tooth replacement.
2. How Do I Know if I’m a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Many adults are eligible for dental implants, even if they’ve been missing teeth for years. Good overall health and healthy gums are important factors, however. If bone loss has occurred, dental bone grafting before the tooth implant procedure may be recommended to improve support. A dental implant consultation with our dentists allows us to review your health history, take detailed images, and determine the best plan for you.
3. What’s the Process of Getting a Dental Implant?
The happens in stages. Our local dental implant dentists will start by evaluating the current condition of your smile using X-rays and visual examinations. If you require the removal of a damaged tooth, extraction will occur before the implant is placed. Extraction and necessary healing aside, you’ll move on to the actual dental implant placement, which involves one of our dentists surgically embedding the titanium post into your jawbone.
Over the course of a few months, the implant will naturally graft with the bone and become secure. After everything is healed, you’ll return to our Cooper City, FL, dental office where we’ll attach the abutment and final crown.
All in all, any discomfort associated with the process has been likened to getting a filling or root canal. Our dentists can prescribe pain medication as you heal and regular checkup visits are mandatory to monitor your recovery.
4. Will Dental Implant Surgery Hurt?
No, should not hurt. You’ll be comfortable throughout the process thanks to the administration of local anesthesia and dental sedation (if preferred). Additionally, most patients are surprised by how manageable recovery is. Some soreness is normal for a few days, but many people return to normal routines quickly after having a dental implant placed.
5. What Are Single-Tooth Implants?
Single-tooth dental implants are used when one tooth is missing and surrounding teeth are healthy. The dental implant replaces both the root and crown and doesn’t require other nearby teeth to be altered, unlike a bridge that relies on them for support. For patients seeking long-term tooth replacement, this option preserves natural tooth structure and bone health.
6. Do I Need Bone Grafting?
Dental bone grafting is often necessary when the jawbone has weakened or shrunk due to tooth loss, gum disease, trauma, or long periods without stimulation. For a dental implant to succeed, it must be anchored in strong, healthy bone. Without enough bone density or volume, an implant may not properly integrate, increasing the risk of loosening or failure over time.
Getting a dental implant placed in an area with insufficient bone can compromise stability and long-term function. The implant may not fuse correctly with the jaw, and surrounding tissues may struggle to support normal biting forces. Bone grafting restores the foundation needed for predictable, long-lasting implant results.
7. How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last decades and often a lifetime. Brushing, flossing, and regularly scheduled professional teeth cleanings are key. The crown may need replacement over time due to normal wear, but the implant itself is designed for durability.
8. Why Should I Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants look natural, feel secure, and allow you to eat and speak comfortably. Unlike removable options, they don’t shift, require adhesives, or result in a restricted diet. For many patients, they are the closest solution to a natural tooth and remain a top choice for permanent tooth replacement.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Take that next step and speak with our dental implant dentists in Cooper, FL, today about the process of filling in the gaps in your smile. Call Cooper City Family Dentistry at (954) 252-8257 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
