Dental Implants FAQs Truckee, CA

What is an implant fixture?

The implant fixture is the portion of the dental implant treatment that is placed in the jaw bone. It looks like a screw and is typically made of titanium. This will piece will need about three to six months to fuse with the surrounding bone once it is placed in the jaw. It will act as the missing tooth root and is responsible for supporting the dental restoration.

How painful is dental implant surgery?

The procedure itself is not painful at all. We will completely numb the area where the implants are placed for your comfort. However, there will be an incision on the gums as well as trauma to the bone, you will likely experience some soreness, minor pain, and swelling at the site. Pain medication will be recommended to help with this discomfort. Most people report that is only lasts up to ten days.

What do I need to know before getting dental implants?

Before choosing dental implants, there are several things you need to know. First, the cost involved in the treatment is significant especially when compared to the traditional treatments. Additionally, the time need to complete the entire treatment is longer. From start to finish, it can take up to year to replace your teeth with a dental implant restoration. It will also require at least one surgical procedure and you must be in good overall health. Dental implants will require proper oral hygiene for the rest of your life.

Can I get dental implants if I smoke?

Dr. Baldwin will require you to quit using tobacco all together before inserting dental implant fixtures into the jaw. This is because tobacco use increases your risk of implant failure significantly. Once the implant fixtures are placed in the jaw, they will need a healthy environment to heal and thrive.

Do I qualify for dental implants?

To see if you qualify for dental implants, Dr. Baldwin will conduct an oral examination, take x-rays and other diagnostics, and discuss your medical history. You must be in good overall health and not have any current oral health issues. There should be enough available bone in the jaw to support the dental implants. Age is typically not a factor in candidacy, whoever Dr. Baldwin will want the patient to be at least 18 years old or done growing.

What type of dental restoration will I need?

This is determined by the number of teeth you are missing and where they are located in the mouth. After your consultation with Dr. Baldwin at his Truckee or Loyalton, CA dentist office, he will determine the best teeth replacement restoration(s) for you. A missing tooth located anywhere in the mouth can be replaced by a dental crown. Several missing teeth in a row can be replaced by a dental bridge. A whole row of missing teeth can be replaced by denture implants.

Are dental implants worth the investment?

No other tooth replacement solution will offer the same benefits as an implant supported dental restoration. While it will cost a lot, it is essentially an investment into your quality of life. They will prevent jaw bone deterioration, offer greater chewing force, will better stabilize the dental restoration, and feel like natural teeth.