Dental Implant FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Replacement

What happens if you don’t replace missing teeth?

When a tooth’s root is missing, the jawbone around the root socket collapses and resorbs. Within the first year, you lose 25% of the bone mass in the area. Over time, this resorption causes the jawbone to shrink and can lead to the shifting of teeth on either side of the missing tooth. If you are missing several teeth, the jawbone can shrink enough to alter the shape of the face, prematurely aging your appearance.

A Natural-Looking, Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth
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What are dental implants?

Dental implants are titanium screws or posts placed in your jawbone to replace the missing roots. They support a crown or prosthetic that replaces the visible portion of a missing tooth. Together, they are a permanent restoration for a missing tooth.

How are dental implants done?

The titanium implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, then allowed to heal for up to 8-16 weeks. A dentist or prosthodontist will create the prosthesis, crown, or permanent denture that attaches to the implants. This allows the implant and jawbone to fuse, creating a stable base for the visible portion of the replacement tooth.

Can you replace all your teeth with dental implants?

Yes, if all or most of your teeth are missing or need to be extracted, you can get an entire arch of upper or lower replacement teeth. You may get crowns placed on individual implants or a full arch of replacement teeth placed on four or six implants in the jawbone. Talk to Dr. Dr. Kituskie to determine which option is best for you.

Do you brush a dental implant like a natural tooth?

Yes, and you need to floss every day as well. Be sure to brush thoroughly and continue to have regular dental checkups. Although your dental restorations will not develop cavities, you can develop gum disease.

Contact our office at Limestone Periodontics Phone Number (302) 994-4900 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dr. Kituskie or use our easy online form to learn more about dental implants.