Dental Implant Questions

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a permanent replacement for a tooth root. It is surgically implanted by a specialist. It is placed below the gumline, so it is completely hidden and fuses with your jaw bone. It is then used to anchor a replacement crown, bridge, or a denture.

Why should I consider dental implants over other tooth replacement options?

There are many advantages to dental implants:

• Dental implants are permanent.
• They secure your replacement tooth or bridge without relying on the neighboring teeth for support.
• By replacing the tooth root they protect you from bone loss, preserving your natural beauty and youthful appearance as well as your dental health.
• Since they seldom need to be replaced and they prevent damage to your surrounding teeth, they will save you money and time in the dentist’s chair.
• Dental implants allow you to care for your replacement teeth just as you would care for your natural teeth. You floss around an implant the same as you would floss around a natural tooth.

The gap from my missing tooth is not visible. Why should I replace it?

Your remaining teeth may shift to fill the gap. That will put them out of proper alignment and make your bite misaligned. A misaligned bite can cause misaligned jaw joints which has the name of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder and a long list of painful symptoms. You may incur future dental bills to treat it and to restore good alignment to your teeth. That will be unnecessary if you act early and fill the gap before changes occur. Once a gap is filled with a dental implant and a replacement tooth, you need only give it good daily hygiene as you do for your natural teeth.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are permanent and usually need no replacement. The replacement tooth or bridge that is attached to the implant may be replaced if it becomes damaged, but this should not affect the implant itself.

Are dental implants right for everyone?

Some people cannot have dental implants. The best candidates are people who are in good overall health and have adequate depth and thickness of jaw bone to hold the implant. In some cases, a bone graft can be done if the jawbone is too thin or short.

During your initial consultation Dr. Raymond will be happy to answer all your questions and help you decide if dental implants are a good solution for you. Please contact us today to schedule your appointment in the Minneapolis and Golden Valley, Minnesota area.