Medically Reviewed by Dr. Shaila Kabani on September 24, 2026
A beautiful smile and good oral health are important. However, if you have neglected your oral health, you could lose a tooth or two. The good news is that you don’t have to worry about having your smile compromised due to missing teeth because, with dental implants, you get your smile back!
If you’re interested in getting a dental implant, it’s important that you first know what to expect to ensure a smooth and successful procedure! Here are important things to know about this dental treatment:
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a prosthetic that replaces the root of a failed tooth. It is placed into the jawbone, which means that it will not be visible when in place. Moreover, it will look like natural teeth.
What You Should Know About Dental Implants
If you’re interested in having this treatment done, it’s essential that you know important things about it to help you decide whether it’s something that you want or not.
The Procedure Doesn’t Hurt
It may sound scary to know that the implant will be screwed into your jawbone, but you will be surprised to know that the procedure causes very little pain. The success rate is high, and the pain following the procedure is very minimal. You can recover easily with little to no downtime.
It’s the Best Way To Replace Teeth
Dental implants are known to be the best way to replace damaged or missing teeth without the need to disrupt the integrity of the other teeth. Also, it’s convenient because it will only take up the same space the original tooth did, which will leave you with no gaps and a more beautiful smile.
It’s Durable
Dental implants are made out of titanium, which is the same metal used in space shuttles. That said, you get yourself strong teeth that will last. In fact, it’s stronger than dentures.
You Never Have To Worry About Cavities
Oral hygiene is still a must even with dental implants, but since it’s not a real tooth, you don’t have to worry about cavities. Nevertheless, remember to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Make sure to use mouthwash as well.
It Can Fortify the Jaw
When you replace a tooth with a dental implant, it can also help strengthen your jawbone. This is because of the medical process involved in which the implant fuses with the jawbone. As such, the implant becomes a part of your body and your facial structure, which can help maintain your jawline and alignment.
It Protects Your Other Teeth
Since the jaw supports dental implants, they will not disturb healthy teeth. In fact, they protect your teeth from shifting, making them less prone to damage.
How long does the dental implant process take from start to finish?
The dental implant process typically takes several months from placement to final restoration. After the titanium post is placed in the jawbone, a healing period of three to six months is usually needed to allow osseointegration, the process by which the implant fuses with the bone. Once that integration is complete, the abutment and final crown are placed. Your dentist will provide a specific timeline based on your individual healing and treatment plan.
Will getting a dental implant hurt?
Most patients are surprised by how minimal the discomfort is during and after the procedure. Local anesthesia is used during placement, so you should not feel pain while the implant is being inserted. Some soreness and swelling in the days following the procedure is normal, but it is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and resolves within a week for most people.
How do I care for a dental implant once it is placed?
Dental implants are cared for much like natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental cleanings are the core requirements. Because the implant itself cannot develop cavities, oral hygiene focuses on keeping the surrounding gum tissue healthy and preventing peri-implant inflammation. Avoiding habits like grinding and chewing on hard objects also helps protect the longevity of the restoration.
Are dental implants a better option than dentures for replacing missing teeth?
For many patients, dental implants offer significant advantages over dentures. Implants are fixed in place, so there is no slipping, removing, or soaking required. They also preserve jawbone by replicating the stimulation a natural root provides, which dentures cannot do. That said, implants require adequate bone density and involve a surgical procedure and longer treatment timeline. Whether implants or another solution is the better fit depends on your specific oral health, bone structure, and goals.
Conclusion
One thing to remember is that dental implants are not for everyone. You still need to be assessed to determine whether it’s the right procedure for you. In some cases, it’s possible your dentist may suggest a different treatment to give you a winning smile.
Now that you know everything you need about a dental implant, it’s time to find an excellent cosmetic dentist who can give you the best dental care that will suit your needs.
Get quality dental treatments at Kabani Dental. Our cosmetic dentist will give you a better smile and oral health. Book an appointment with us today.
About the Author
Dr. Shaila Kabani
Kabani Dental, Marietta, GA
Dr. Shaila Kabani has been practicing dentistry since 2000 and has accumulated more than 300 hours of advanced clinical education. She and her team serve patients throughout Marietta, East Cobb, Vinings, and Smyrna, providing comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative dental care with a personalized approach at every appointment.