If you are thinking of getting dental implants in Rockville, Maryland, you probably have a lot of questions about the process. Below are some answers to the most common questions that people have about how implants work and what to expect:
Q: What are dental implants?
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. They are made up of two basic components. First, they have a metal post that extends downward through your gums into your jawbone. In essence, this post is designed to act like the root of a natural tooth, connecting the tooth to your jaw.
Inside your mouth, a small metal portion of the post sticks up through your gum line. A false tooth is attached to this post. When done correctly, this tooth will look and feel exactly like one of your natural teeth.
Q: How do you care for dental implants?
One of the best parts about implants is that you can treat them exactly like you would treat your own teeth. That means brushing and flossing them like normal. You can also generally eat whatever food you want without having to worry about the teeth coming loose.
Q: Is the process of getting dental implants painful?
Getting implants can be uncomfortable, although it should not be painful. Your mouth will be numb throughout the entire process. Most patients report some discomfort but very few report feeling any pain. If you are concerned, you can talk to your dentist about how to minimize the likelihood of pain.
Q: Are dental implants expensive?
Dental implants do cost quite a bit of money. In fact, they are the most expensive option for replacing missing teeth. However, when you consider all of the benefits that they offer, it is easy to see that they are a worthwhile investment. Unlike dentures, you don’t need to take them out each night and clean them. You also don’t have to worry about only eating certain types of food.
Additionally, the post from the dental implant helps preserve the underlying jawbone. This can allow your face to keep a more youthful appearance as you age. Finally, you also need to consider that dental implants will usually last a lifetime, depending on how late in life you get them.
Hopefully, this answers any questions that you may have about getting dental implants in Rockville, Maryland. If you still have questions about the process, it is worth meeting with the dentist to discuss your options and address any of your concerns.