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Appleton Prosthodontics
Richard Appleton, DDS, MS
Specialist in Solving Advanced Dental Problems

Commonly asked questions

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants

For patients missing one or more teeth, dental implants are among the most effective tooth replacement options available. However, there are certain requirements patients must meet in order to enjoy long-term success. Keep reading to learn more about becoming a candidate for dental implants then schedule your consultation with Baton Rouge prosthodontist Dr. Richard Appleton today. 

Will dental implants work for me?

Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factor is the amount of available bone. As a trained prosthodontist, Dr. Appleton is the best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.

Is old age a problem?

Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate dental implant treatment. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.

Benefits over Traditional Treatment

What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a dental bridge?
  • Improved appearance: When you lose the entire tooth - crown and root - shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older. Dental implants can stop this process. A traditional denture or dental bridge doesn’t.
  • Preserve natural teeth: With traditional dental bridges, teeth adjacent to missing teeth are normally ground down to be used as anchors for a dental bridge. Dental implants often eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth.
  • Permanent solution: There are no loose parts to worry about losing. The dental implant is stable and comfortable. No adjustment is needed after placement. Normally, it will serve its owner for life.

What Can I Expect with Dental Implants?

 How will dental implants affect my life?

Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most importantly, dental implants often greatly improve a patient's quality of life permanently. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.

Will my new teeth look natural?

When dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort, and function are very likely to exceed your expectations. Given the high-quality materials used to craft patient's crowns or bridges, it is often nearly impossible to tell dental implants from your natural teeth.

Will I be able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural teeth?

Yes. Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth. 

Treatment and Caring for Dental Implants

How much time is required for a dental implant placement?

Today, state-of-the-art surgical techniques are convenient alternatives to place dental implants and allow you to have the dental implant placed in a single session.

The conventional process can take from three to six months of healing. First, Dr. Appleton places the dental implant, which is left for three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, you are given a temporary prosthesis until the permanent crown is put in place.

The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your dental health, the number of teeth involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits throughout the treatment period.

Is dental implant treatment painful?

With any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort then placing several. Anesthesia and patient sedation are commonly administered to help reduce any discomfort during the dental implant process. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Your doctor will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur.

How will I feel after the treatment?

It is normal to have some bruising and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an ordinary painkiller. You should expect to be able to work the next day.

How will I care for my dental implants?

Your new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss as recommended by your dental hygienist.

Whether you've spent years with a removable denture or recently lost a tooth, dental implants the best way to regain function and confidence in your smile. If you're considering dental implants, call Appleton Prosthodontics to schedule an appointment with our Baton Rouge implant dentist. We look forward to helping you smile!