Dental Implant FAQ

Donahue Dental Answers Your FAQ About Dental Implants

The expert staff at Donahue Dental performs dental implant surgery for patients throughout St. Charles, MO and the surrounding area. Rather than relying on cumbersome, irritating removable dentures, dental implants are permanent tooth replacement solutions that act like natural teeth. We can insert them into your jawbone so you never have to worry about a messy adhesive or daily soaking like you would have in the past. We utilize advanced technology to provide comprehensive dental care, all while keeping you informed of your best options and plans for optimal oral health. Based on the conversations with our past patients, we have compiled the most common questions to help you understand the process and results better. Read further to learn more.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

If you lose a tooth or several teeth, you may face several problems. The most apparent complication will be a gap that can cause self-esteem issues or shame. It may also make it difficult to chew certain foods or speak clearly. However, the biggest concern should be for your oral health. Without a tooth occupying space in your mouth, other teeth can shift and adversely affect your facial structure and bite. Your jawbone will also resorb without a tooth in place. However, dental implants can solve all these problems and more. Most importantly, you will prevent further bone loss and reduce your vulnerability to infection, tooth decay, and gum disease. But you will also be proud to smile widely, able to eat all your favorite foods and speak confidently with the help of dental implants from Donahue Dental.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Most adults are candidates for dental implants, but we will have to schedule a consultation to determine if they are right for you. We will perform a comprehensive exam to assess your oral health and evaluate your jawbone to ensure it can support the implants. Prime candidates are healthy adults without chronic diseases who do not drink or smoke heavily.

Are dental implants painful?

Among the most pressing concerns for patients considering dental implant surgery is whether it will hurt. Fortunately, most individuals report feeling much less pain than they expected and are easily able to tolerate what they feel. We will provide local anesthesia during the procedure and help you manage any ensuing discomfort with pain medication.

How long does the dental implant process take?

The procedure itself can be completed in as few as 30 minutes, depending on how many implants you need. However, the process will take several months and involve multiple visits to our office. Donahue Dental will accompany you every step of the way, but you will need to visit our office for:

• An initial consultation
• Surgery to place the titanium rods in your jawbone
• A follow-up procedure to place abutments on the implant and make impressions of your teeth
• Placement of your artificial tooth or teeth

Are dental implants as strong as natural teeth?

Yes. Dental implants are designed to match your natural teeth in both functionality and appearance. You will be able to bite into an apple or any other food without fear. Our team will create implants that match your existing teeth in shape and color so no one will ever know the difference.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants will vary depending on how many you need, what type you choose, and their location, among other factors. While dental implants are more expensive than dentures, they are a far better long-term investment in your overall health. Dental implants will not only improve your appearance, but they will protect you against bone atrophy, gum disease, and tooth decay, all of which would be added expenses in the future.

Will insurance cover my implants?

Historically, insurance has not covered dental implants. However, providers are increasingly offering dental implant coverage in some of their plans. You may also be able to receive insurance assistance for part of the tooth replacement process. It is best to call your provider to determine what your plan covers.

How successful are dental implants?

Dental implants are highly effective, with reported success rates between 90% and 95%. As an added benefit, they are long-lasting once they are in place. They are not susceptible to decay or disease, so personal care and oral hygiene can make dental implants last a lifetime. Donahue Dental can help you understand how to best care for your dental implants and provide regular, professional cleanings for them.

Call Donahue Dental to Learn More about Dental Implants

Dental implants or oral surgery of any kind can seem overwhelming, but our team of experts aims to ensure you are unconcerned about the process or results. Our highly-trained staff is adept at not only performing the procedure but also explaining its benefits and putting patients at ease. Contact us or visit our office in St. Charles to learn more.