Dental Implants FAQ
The Dental Implants we place at Blue Ash Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery are changing lives every day. Strong as natural teeth because they are anchored into the jaw, implants are an ideal teeth replacement method that allows you to eat your favorite foods without having to worry about your teeth slipping. Dental implants give you back the freedom to talk, eat, and laugh without restraint.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a 3-part artificial tooth that consisting of a titanium screw that we place in your jaw, a crown which is the visible part of the implant, and an abutment that protrudes from the screw and holds the crown in place.
How do dental implants work?
We place a titanium screw in your jaw that acts as an anchor or root for your artificial tooth. Through a process called osseointegration, the implant fuses with the jawbone, permanently stabilizing the new tooth and allowing it to function naturally.
Do dental implants hurt?
No! Your safety and comfort is our top priority, so we make every effort to keep you as comfortable as possible during your entire experience with us. We keep the surgical site numb throughout implant surgery and offer a variety of anesthetic options. As the anesthesia wears off later in the day, any mild discomfort can be easily managed with over-the-counter medications. You are in expert hands with Dr. Stastny.
How long does it take to get a dental implant?
On average, the process of getting a dental implant takes about 8 months. We tailor each procedure to every individual patient, taking into careful consideration the complexity of your case, including your potential need for bone grafting.
What are the steps involved in having a dental implant placed by Dr. Stastny?
We begin with a consultation appointment with Dr. Stastny in which we assess your overall health and the health of your jaw. Once we’ve reviewed the different options that would work best for you, we work together to create a treatment plan, including the form of anesthesia you’d like to use.
After the implant placement surgery is completed Dr. Stastny and his team will monitor your progress during the healing period. Once the implant has healed, we will check your implant to verify it is ready for your dentist or prosthodontist to begin making a crown. Additional options like immediate temporaries are appropriate in certain cases and can be discussed at the time of your consultation.
Will I need to have bone grafting?
Dr. Stastny uses state-of-the-art technology to image and measure the available bone in the area of your missing tooth. This allows him to obtain exact measurements and determine when a graft is necessary. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Stastny will evaluate the surgical site, discuss with you the details of your situation, and advise accordingly.
Will I miss work?
Our patients normally take the rest of the day off following an implant procedure and return to work the following day with very little discomfort.