Dallas Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Dental Implants FAQ

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dental implants. Our surgeons are the top experts in dental implants in the Dallas and Plano area, and one of their top priorities is making sure patients have the knowledge and understanding they need when considering an oral surgery procedure like dental implants.

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Here at Dallas Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we conduct dental implants placement procedures on patients who have lost their teeth.

Dental implants are the best solution for people who have lost their teeth. Many people do not understand much about the surgical procedure or are wary of it because of the misconceptions that flow around. Below, we debunk some of these myths and misconceptions by answering some of the frequently asked questions about dental implants.

Must I Undergo A Bone Grafting Procedure To Get Dental Implants?

A bone grafting procedure is only carried out when our dentists establish that you do not have enough jawbone to support the implant. If you stay for long with an empty tooth gap, you are likely to lose some volume of the jawbone. If you opt to get dental implants immediately after losing your teeth, there will be no need for a bone grafting procedure.

A sinus lift is another pre-dental implant procedure that might be necessary for some situations. A sinus lift is only necessary when the implants are being placed on the upper jaw and too close to the sinus cavity. The implants must not touch the sinus cavity, and hence the need to lift it a little bit.
How Long Does It Take To Heal?

Before putting any specific value on the time it takes to heal from a dental implants placement procedure, it is important to mention that different people heal differently. It might take longer for you than for the next person. Generally, it takes three months for a dental implant placed on the lower jaw to completely heal. It might take up to six months for a dental implant placed on the upper jaw. The whole process from pre-placement procedures to complete recovery might take as long as one year, depending on the complexity of the procedures that have to be carried out.
Is The Dental Placement Procedure Uncomfortable?

The procedure might involve pulling out your damaged tooth, a bone graft procedure, and screwing metal posts into your jawbone. All these are surgical procedures that require our surgeons to put you under sedation or some type of numbing agent. During the procedures, you’ll feel no pain, and you’ll be quite comfortable. For a bone grafting procedure, you’ll be put under general anesthesia. That means you’ll be completely unconscious.

After the procedures, you might feel a bit of discomfort or a sting when the sedation and numbness starts wearing off. It should be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Our surgeons may also give you or prescribe medication to help you manage any discomfort that might arise. We will work with you to manage any discomfort that arises out of the procedures.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implant placement is one of the best tooth replacement options available. With a minimal maintenance requirement, dental implants are considered easier to handle than dentures or crowns. Dental implant technology has undergone significant advancement over the past decade or two to the point where implant failure due to functionality problems or rejection is extremely rare. But, this doesn’t mean that implants don’t fail at all.

Please feel free to call Dallas Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at 972-733-0414 and ask any other questions about dental implants that you might have. Dental implants are indeed one of the best solutions for anyone who has lost their teeth, and the misconceptions out there should not make you shy off from getting them.

Patient Feedback

Dr. Sherry was very professional and personable. Day one of meeting him he made me and my family confident about surgery. He was available for questions, concerns, and did a thorough job talking us through the process/recovery. His team was also incredible, so helpful and friendly. I had a great healing process, no complications, and overall a great experience! I would HIGHLY recommend Dr. Sherry and his team if you are even considering oral surgery.

- Nikki

Dr. Lee and his staff did such an amazing job. All within one week I had a consultation and procedure to have wisdom teeth removed. I’ve already referred a friend to him as well. They are so affordable and made each encounter comfortable. He truly cares for his patients. So all in all I thank him and his staff for a job well done. Definitely call and make that appointment no need to look any further.

- Ciera

I was a new patient at Dallas Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and my experience was GREAT! Dr. Gannon is amazing and so is his entire staff and the entire facility! I want to give a huge shout out to Aby! She was amazing the day of my surgery! I highly recommend this facility! Everyone was AWESOME! Thank you all for a professional and quick surgery day!

- Shawna

Dr. Sherry and the rest of the staff was extremely helpful and made my experience as comfortable as possible. Dr. Sherry did a great job in addressing my concerns and is empathetic towards those who are nervous about dental procedures. Highly recommend!!

- Martha

Dr. Lee and his staff were great! He and his team were very professional and friendly. I had a lot of work done and I would highly recommend Dr. Lee. I was very impressed with his knowledge and skill. He is awesome!

- Mark

Absolutely THE best dental experience I have had in my entire life! I had been suffering from a failed root canal (done by a dentist I shall not name). Dr. Gannon and his staff took care of my needs (xrays, antibiotics, etc) until I was able to get the tooth surgically removed. No pain and aftercare follow-up with them was great! If there were 10 stars I would rate them at that! I wish they did regular dentistry there too.

- Susie

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Oral health is often overlooked in the realm of overall well-being, but its significance cannot be overstated. Beyond just maintaining a dazzling smile, prioritizing oral health encompasses a spectrum of benefits, from preventing serious health issues to enhancing confidence and quality of life. Key procedures like jaw surgery, dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and cosmetic surgery play pivotal roles in this regard, highlighting the importance of proactive dental care.

One of the cornerstone aspects of oral health is preventive care, which includes regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and screenings for early detection of any issues. These routine visits not only help in maintaining good oral hygiene but also serve as opportunities for dentists to identify and address any potential problems before they escalate. Neglecting such preventive measures can lead to the need for more invasive interventions like oral surgery. Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, including wisdom teeth removal, corrective jaw surgery, and dental implant placement. These interventions are crucial for addressing issues such as impacted wisdom teeth, misaligned jaws, or missing teeth.

Dental implants, for instance, have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry by providing a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking alternative that restores both function and aesthetics. However, the success of dental implant procedures depends greatly on maintaining optimal oral health. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of complications such as infection or implant failure, underscoring the importance of regular oral care practices.

Moreover, wisdom teeth removal is another common oral surgery procedure that is often necessary to prevent various complications. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, due to limited space in the mouth, these teeth often become impacted, leading to pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. Therefore, timely removal of impacted wisdom teeth is crucial for preventing such issues and preserving overall oral health.

In addition to addressing functional concerns, oral health also plays a significant role in one’s appearance and self-esteem. Cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, or orthodontic treatments, can enhance the aesthetics of the smile, boosting confidence and self-image. However, achieving optimal results in cosmetic dentistry often requires a foundation of good oral health. For instance, gum disease or untreated cavities can compromise the outcome of cosmetic procedures, emphasizing the need for comprehensive dental care.

Furthermore, maintaining oral health is not just about preventing dental problems; it is also linked to broader health outcomes. Research has established connections between oral health and various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Poor oral hygiene can serve as a gateway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation and increasing the risk of systemic diseases. By prioritizing oral health, individuals can mitigate these risks and support their overall well-being.

The importance of prioritizing oral health cannot be overstated, with implications ranging from preventive care to complex surgical interventions. Procedures like oral surgery, dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and cosmetic dentistry underscore the multifaceted nature of oral health and its impact on quality of life. By embracing regular dental care practices and seeking timely interventions when needed, individuals can safeguard their oral health and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, radiant smile for years to come.

We are here to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile!

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