Dental Implant FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental implants right for me?

Dental implants may be an excellent tooth replacement option for you if you have missing, broken, or severely decayed teeth and are in relatively good overall health. The best way of knowing if implants are right for you is to discuss your options with an experienced oral surgeon like Dr. Hinckley at Front Range Oral Surgery in Dacono and Wheat Ridge, Colorado. He and his team can identify whether you have enough bone support and healthy gums to support dental implants or if another solution would be better for you.

What is the placement of dental implants like?

The typical placement of dental implants involves a multi-step process that can take about 6 and 9 months to complete. It usually begins with a surgical procedure to place a titanium post into the jawbone where the previous natural tooth root once was. The gums are closed with sutures over the implant. The area will then have several months to heal as the titanium fuses with the surrounding bone. You’ll be sedated and/or anesthetized for the duration of the treatment. At the conclusion of the healing period, you’ll return to be fitted for permanent crowns and have them placed.

What is Recovery from Dental Implant Surgery like?

It is normal to experience some discomfort, including bruising and swelling following a dental implant procedure. However, inflammation and pain may be managed with over-the-counter medications or prescription pain medication. You may be asked to eat only soft foods for approximately 2 weeks until the surgical site heals.