The 10 Essential Questions You Must Know Before Getting Dental Implants
1. Do dental implants hurt?
Dental implants are placed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, so the procedure itself should not be painful. Mild discomfort the following day is normal and easily managed with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and pain medication. Modern digital surgical guides make dental implants minimally invasive, precise, and faster to heal.
2. How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last 20+ years or even a lifetime. Their durability depends on proper care—cleanings, checkups, and daily hygiene. Since dental implants function like natural teeth, they require the same level of maintenance to stay healthy long-term.
3. How much do dental implants cost?
At EnamelDent, dental implants cost $1,350 USD total. This includes the titanium implant, the titanium abutment, and the final zirconia crown, which offers the highest strength and most natural-looking aesthetics.
4. How long does the dental implant process take?
The full process for dental implants typically takes 3 to 4 months when enough bone is available:
First visit: dental implant placement + temporary tooth
Healing (osseointegration): 3–4 months
- Final visit: placement of the zirconia crownIf bone grafting is needed, the dental implant timeline may extend slightly.
5. Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Most patients are good candidates for dental implants. The main factor is having adequate bone support. If bone is lacking, grafting can be done beforehand. Specific medical situations may require evaluation, but eligibility for dental implants is confirmed during the consultation.
6. What if I don’t have enough bone for dental implants?
When there isn’t enough bone for dental implants, a bone graft can rebuild the area. In the upper back region, a sinus lift may be necessary, especially when teeth have been missing for many years. Not all patients require this; a full evaluation determines the best approach for successful dental implants.
7. Do dental implants look fake?
No. Dental implants look natural when two steps are done correctly:
Precise placement of the dental implant in the bone.
- A high-quality, aesthetic zirconia crown made to match your teeth.The surgical and prosthetic phases of dental implants must be well-executed to achieve a natural, seamless result.
8. Can I eat normally with dental implants?
Yes. Once healed and restored with the final zirconia crown, dental implants allow strong chewing, stability, and comfort—very similar to natural teeth. Most patients cannot tell the difference between dental implants and their natural dentition.
9. Are dental implants better than bridges?
It depends on each case. Dental implants and bridges are both effective when properly indicated. The best choice depends on health, bone structure, and long-term goals. There is no single answer—dental implants may be ideal for some patients, while bridges may be recommended for others.
10. What care do dental implants require?
Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth: proper brushing, flossing or water flossing, professional cleanings, and routine checkups. With consistent maintenance, dental implants remain healthy and functional for many years.
