Dental implants replace your natural teeth and eliminate the need for bridges and dentures. Because the bone of your jaw grows around the implant, it feels and acts like a natural tooth. Bhavin C. Patel, DDS, your dentist in New Jersey, knows that many patients have questions about dental implants. Below are three of the most common ones.

How do implants work?

Implants integrate with your jawbone to provide a stable foundation for a crown or bridge. During the first part of the implant process, your dentist will drill a hole or holes in the bone and place one or more cylinders or screws. It will take approximately three to six months for the cylinders or screws to integrate with your jawbone. When your implant is fully integrated, an abutment will be added to it. An abutment connects the implant to a crown, which looks just like a natural tooth. If you're replacing multiple teeth, a bridge will be added to the abutments.

Am I a candidate for implants?

You are a good candidate if you have good oral health habits and don't have gum disease. Since the jawbone supports the implant, your jawbone must be deep enough and strong enough to accommodate the implant. If it isn't, you still may be able to have an implant if you undergo a bone grafting procedure first. Implants generally aren't a good choice for smokers, as smoking can delay healing, increase the infection rate and lead to implant failure.

How long do implants last?

With proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Plaque forms on implants, just as it does on natural teeth, and must be removed daily by brushing and flossing. If you don't remove plaque, you can develop an inflammation that can lead to implant failure.

Implants are an excellent choice for people of all ages. If you've been considering an implant, call New Jersey dentist, Bhavin C. Patel, DDS at (609) 736-2321 for an appointment.