Common Questions about Implant Dentistry

At the implant dentistry practice of Dr. Jose Valenzuela, serving Palm Springs, Yuma, and the entire Southwest, we get questions every day from people who are interested in having dental implants. We’ve answered some of these questions on our Implant Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions page. Here are some answers to a few more questions.

Are dental implants permanent?

Many websites refer to dental implants as a “permanent” solution to missing teeth; however, this term should be taken with a grain of salt. The restorations – the dental crowns, bridges, and dentures – attached to the titanium implant posts are most definitely not permanent, although they can last for a decade or longer with proper care. The titanium implants themselves could last a lifetime; however, there is no guarantee that they will never require repair or replacement over time. The durability of dental implants relies heavily on one’s oral hygiene habits, as is true with natural teeth.

What is the risk that a dental implant will be rejected?

Dental implants are composed of titanium, which the human body does not recognize as a foreign substance. This is why the implant post actually integrates with the jawbone, essentially becoming part of the patient’s anatomy. Because of this, implant rejection is highly unlikely.

Are implant-supported restorations aesthetically superior to their traditional counterparts?

Yes! One of the reasons that dental implants look so natural is that the restorations are attached below the gum line. Traditional crowns, bridges, and dentures sit on top of the gums; on close inspection, it will be somewhat obvious that these restorations are not original teeth. Implant-supported restorations are difficult to detect even at close range.

If you have further questions about implant or cosmetic dentistry, contact Dr. Jose Valenzuela, serving Palm Springs and Yuma.