Dental Implant FAQs
Will I have temporary teeth during the healing phase?
If the implant site is near the front of your mouth, we have a variety of temporary options such as bridges and transitional implants to get you through the healing phase. In some cases, the permanent tooth can even be placed (“loaded”) onto the implant at the same time as surgery.
Do dental implants hurt?
During the surgery, you will be properly anesthetized at all times – you won’t feel a thing! And after surgery, you’ll be relieved to know that most of our patients experience very little, if any, pain that is usually managed well with over-the-counter pain medications. Any necessary prescriptions will be discussed during your visit.
Do dental implants feel like real teeth?
Yes! Your
dental implant will feel, look and operate just like your natural teeth. You will be eating all of the foods that you used to enjoy with your new, permanent tooth before you know it!
Will I need to miss work for dental implant surgery?
Patients typically take anywhere from a few hours to a few days off of work, depending on the type of sedation, the implant site and their pre-op health.
What are single-stage implants?
In some cases, we are able to place the implant and leave the soft tissue surrounding it as is. This way, we can avoid a second surgical procedure to uncover the dental implant during the abutment/restoration stage.
What if I am missing a lot of teeth?
If you are missing many teeth, implant-supported dentures can give you a full arch of prosthetic teeth attached to just a few implants. This option is a great solution for those who need the quantity of teeth provided by a denture, but don’t want the hassle associated with it.
What are the risks and complications associated with dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of up to 98% and the procedure has been around for decades, with continual improvements and discoveries made all along the way. The risks are very low, and closely resemble those of other minor surgical procedures (infection, injury to adjacent teeth, etc.).
How long do dental implants last?
Studies have shown that properly placed and well cared-for dental implants can last as long as 25 years. Advanced technology and experience enable us to give you the very best shot at keeping yours for life!
When will I have my permanent teeth?
Permanent restorations are placed as early as 1 and as late as 12 months following implant surgery, depending on your case.
How do I care for my implants?
Care for your implants just like you do your natural teeth: by brushing twice and flossing once daily. Take good care of them and they will take care of you!
Our Surgeons and staff of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Minnesota welcome all questions, please give us a call!
To better answer some of your dental implant questions, click on the following link Dental Implant Information or call our office to schedule an appointment to see Dr. Barbick.
