Dental Implants FAQs Asheville, NC

Dental Implant FAQs FAQs

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are designed to replace the natural tooth root and support a prosthetic tooth or dental appliance such as a denture.

An implant post is surgically attached to the jaw bone. Over the course of a few months, the implant permanently fuses with the existing jaw bone. After the implants heal, an abutment is attached. Then the implants are finished with a custom designed ceramic dental restoration.

Am I good candidate for dental implants?

In most cases, patients will need to have an adequate amount of healthy bone structure to receive dental implants; however, due to advancements in dental care, patients who were considered poor candidates for the dental implant procedure are now able to receive dental implants with great success using grafting techniques.

Procedures such as bone grafting or gum grafting will build a proper foundation to help support dental implants. Dr. Harrison is an experienced periodontist and offers advanced care for restoring gum health.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Dental implants are considered one of the most successful tooth replacement options. They offer the most complete solution for missing teeth. Not only are they designed to replace the tooth root, but they also replace the visible portion of the tooth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime and can improve your overall appearance, self-confidence, and your ability to eat your favorite foods. Patients no longer need to worry about slippage or other embarrassing situations that may occur as a result of missing teeth.

What is the success rate for dental implants?

This varies from patient to patient. For patients who maintain a great oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist regularly, their implants are projected to have above a 90-95 percent success rate.

What is All-on-4®?

All-on-4® is a revolutionary treatment that uses four or less dental implants to replace a full arch or mouth of missing teeth. This treatment can be implemented for patients who were not previously ideal candidates for the dental implant procedure.

Are dental implants removable?

No, dental implants are fixed posts that are surgically attached to the jaw. They are topped with a custom-made restoration that is designed to resemble the natural teeth.

How long does it take to replace teeth using dental implant?

Each case is different. Dr. Harrsion will assess your needs and create a personalized solution based on your needs. The treatment plan will include your estimated treatment time. The length of your treatment will depend on factors like your overall condition, dental health, and health of the gum and bone tissue.

Does is hurt to get dental implants?

With sedation dentistry and other methods, the dental implant procedure is designed to make the patient as comfortable as possible. We offer three types of dental sedation options: IV sedation, oral conscious sedation, and nitrous oxide.

How do I care for my dental implants?

If you maintain a proper oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist regularly, your dental implants can last decades. Taking care of your dental implants are very similar to caring for the natural teeth: brush your teeth, floss your teeth, and schedule biannual dental check-ups.

Are dental implants covered by insurance?

Insurance policies vary but many of them cover a portion of restorative dentistry procedures.