Implants are quality restorations that restore one or more missing teeth at the root. Dental implants may also support single dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. We provide restorative treatment with dental implants in our Lancaster, PA, dental office, helping patients improve the full function of their smiles. Missing permanent teeth can create many problems that implants can solve because they restore the appearance and regular upkeep of the smile. We welcome patients to discover more about this restorative option with answers to commonly asked questions about implants.
Q&A: Dental Implants in Lancaster, PA
Learn more about dental implants with answers to these commonly asked questions about treatment:
Will dental implants prevent bone loss?
Dental implants can prevent bone loss in patients who have not immediately replaced their teeth after losing them. We often recommend bone grafting before implant treatment for patients who have already experienced bone loss or jaw recession. Dental implants fuse with healthy bone tissue to support restorations and encourage healthy growth.
Can dental implants fail?
While dental implants have a success rate of 95 percent, they can fail. Implants can fail due to tooth decay, gum disease, or tobacco use. We ensure that patients are healthy before implant treatment to prevent problems like gum disease or decay from impacting their treatment. However, the posts can loosen if patients develop tooth decay or gum disease after they receive implants. Patients can also encounter problems if they smoke or use tobacco products during implant treatment. Nicotine restricts the blood vessels, slowing the implant healing process.
How long do implants last?
The implant posts will permanently replace the tooth root and stay in the jaw once they heal. However, patients may need to replace their restorations over time. Crowns, bridges, and dentures can wear down or sustain damage over time. While it may be many years until patients need to replace their restorations, they will require replacement.
What do dental implants feel like?
Dental implants feel like natural teeth because the implant posts function as replacement tooth roots. While we will not replace every missing tooth with an implant, we will use multiple implants to secure restorations like bridges or dentures. Compared to removable dentures or traditional bridges, which do not use implants, implant-supported restorations will feel closer to natural teeth.
What can you eat with dental implants?
Patients can eat foods they cannot eat with traditional dentures with dental implants. Patients can eat chewy, hard, or crunchy foods with the support of dental implants. Implants allow patients to eat practically any foods they want.
Do you have more questions about dental implants? Call Dr. Sara Gotwalt for implant dentistry services today at 717-627-6980. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Gotwalt online.