Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Missing teeth can affect your confidence and daily life. If you’re dealing with such a problem, Donahue Dental can help. We have years of experience placing dental implants in St. Charles, MO, to restore our patients’ smiles. Our team uses the latest technology to deliver long-lasting, natural-looking results. Review answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about dental implants and how they’ll improve your quality of life below.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

If you lose a tooth or several teeth, you may face several problems. The most apparent complication will be a gap that can cause self-esteem issues or shame. It may also make it difficult to chew certain foods or speak clearly. However, the biggest concern should be for your oral health. Without a tooth occupying space in your mouth, other teeth can shift and adversely affect your facial structure and bite. Your jawbone will also resorb without a tooth in place. However, dental implants can solve all these problems and more. Most importantly, you will prevent further bone loss and reduce your vulnerability to infection, tooth decay, and gum disease. But you will also be proud to smile widely, able to eat all your favorite foods and speak confidently with the help of dental implants from Donahue Dental.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Most adults are candidates for dental implants, but we will have to schedule a consultation to determine if they are right for you. We will perform a comprehensive exam to assess your oral health and evaluate your jawbone to ensure it can support the implants. Prime candidates are healthy adults without chronic diseases who do not drink or smoke heavily.

Are dental implants painful?

Among the most pressing concerns for patients considering dental implant surgery is whether it will hurt. Fortunately, most individuals report feeling much less pain than they expected and are easily able to tolerate what they feel. We will provide local anesthesia during the procedure and help you manage any ensuing discomfort with pain medication.

How long does the dental implant process take?

The procedure itself can be completed in as few as 30 minutes, depending on how many implants you need. However, the process will take several months and involve multiple visits to our office. Donahue Dental will accompany you every step of the way, but you will need to visit our office for:

• An initial consultation
• Surgery to place the titanium rods in your jawbone
• A follow-up procedure to place abutments on the implant and make impressions of your teeth
• Placement of your artificial tooth or teeth

Are dental implants as strong as natural teeth?

Yes. Dental implants are designed to match your natural teeth in both functionality and appearance. You will be able to bite into an apple or any other food without fear. Our team will create implants that match your existing teeth in shape and color so no one will ever know the difference.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants will vary depending on how many you need, what type you choose, and their location, among other factors. While dental implants are more expensive than dentures, they are a far better long-term investment in your overall health. Dental implants will not only improve your appearance, but they will protect you against bone atrophy, gum disease, and tooth decay, all of which would be added expenses in the future.

Will insurance cover my implants?

Historically, insurance has not covered dental implants. However, providers are increasingly offering dental implant coverage in some of their plans. You may also be able to receive insurance assistance for part of the tooth replacement process. It is best to call your provider to determine what your plan covers.

How successful are dental implants?

Dental implants are highly effective, with reported success rates between 90% and 95%. As an added benefit, they are long-lasting once they are in place. They are not susceptible to decay or disease, so personal care and oral hygiene can make dental implants last a lifetime. Donahue Dental can help you understand how to best care for your dental implants and provide regular, professional cleanings for them.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium. We can place them into your jawbone to replace missing teeth. Once healed, we’ll attach a crown, bridge, or denture to the implant. The various types of dental implants available include:

• Single Implants – These replace one missing tooth.
• Multiple Implants – We use these to replace several missing teeth.
• All-on-4 Implants – This product supports a full arch of teeth with just four implants.
• Mini Implants – Smaller implants are ideal for people with less bone.

Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

Most adults with missing teeth are good candidates for dental implants, but you must have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. If you smoke or have certain medical complications, we’ll discuss your options and potential alternatives during a consultation.

What Are the Side Effects of Tooth Implants?

Most patients have minimal side effects after the dental implant procedure. You might experience mild swelling for a few days, slight discomfort at the implant site, or minor bleeding. However, these symptoms are normal and should go away quickly. You’ll be able to return to work the day after your dental implant placement.

Are Implants Better Than Dentures?

Every situation is different, so we’ll need to conduct a consultation to determine which approach is best for you. Dental implants are slightly more expensive upfront, but promise cost-effectiveness over time. Additionally, they offer these advantages over dentures:

• They feel and function like natural teeth
• No slipping or clicking sounds
• You can eat all of your favorite foods
• They last longer than dentures
• No need for messy adhesives

Can You Eat Normally With Dental Implants?

Yes. Once your implants heal, you can eat virtually anything. Unlike dentures, dental implants won’t slip when you bite into corn on the cob or apples. Many of our patients have expressed a new enjoyment of eating after getting implants.

Why Wouldn’t a Dentist Recommend Dental Implants?

Dr. Donahue is a licensed prosthodontist, meaning dental implants are his specialty. His extensive training made him an expert in understanding the dynamics of a smile. He and our team can evaluate your circumstances to determine the best treatment option. Among the situations where implants might not be the best choice are:

• Severe bone loss in the jaw
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Heavy smoking
• Certain medications that affect healing
• Active gum disease

How Long Will I Go Without Teeth During the Implant Process?

You won’t go without teeth. We provide temporary teeth while your implants heal. The healing process typically takes three to six months. During this time, your temporary teeth allow you to eat, speak, and smile normally.

Contact Our Dental Implant Specialists Today

Donahue Dental can restore your smile with dental implants at our state-of-the-art clinic in St. Charles, MO. We’re happy to help create a plan that fits your needs and budget, so contact us today to schedule a consultation.