Common Questions About Implants

Are dental implants safe?

Dental implants are small titanium anchors that are fused to your jawbone to hold an aesthetic replacement tooth in place. When a dental implant is placed in your jaw, your bone accepts it as a natural part of your body, making it a permanent solution for missing teeth. Years of research on the biocompatibility of titanium have shown that this metal is not only safe and effective for tooth replacement, but is the ideal material for recreating a strong, healthy smile.

What are dental implants made out of?

The actual implant used as an anchor in your procedure is made out of titanium. Titanium is an incredibly strong, corrosion-resistant, naturally-occurring metal. Due to its light weight, strength, and biocompatibility with the human body, titanium dental implants can provide a life-long solution for missing teeth.

The replacement tooth used in dental implant procedures is made out of porcelain. Both strong and stain-resistant, porcelain can be colored and sized to match your natural teeth, making it the ideal solution for tooth replacement.

How long do dental implants last?

The first dental implant was placed in 1965, and it has maintained its strength and function to this day. All evidence suggests that dental implants have the ability to provide a life-time of support when used in tooth replacement procedures.

Are dental implants painful?

Dental implants are placed under anesthesia, making the surgery painless. The process of acceptance by your jawbone can take up to six months, but it occurs naturally; you should not feel it happening. Some tenderness or swelling may occur within the first few days following your surgery. This discomfort can be dealt with through the use of over-the-counter pain medications and should only be needed temporarily. After your initial recovery, dental implants should provide no discomfort at all.

Does Dr. Tomlo place dental implants?

North Carolina cosmetic dentist Dr. Thomas Tomlo does not place the dental implant itself; he does, however, provide the restorations once an implant has been successfully anchored to your jaw bone. When you come to our office for a dental implant, Dr. Tomlo will refer you to an exceptional local specialist for implant placement. After the implant is placed, he will provide you with a custom-made artificial tooth.

If you have further questions about dental implants, please contact the experienced cosmetic dentistry team at Dr. Thomas F. Tomlo, DDS, PLLC today to schedule a personal consultation.

Our office serves the Hendersonville and Asheville areas of North Carolina, as well as the Spartanburg and Greenville areas of South Carolina.