Do Dental Implants Feel Natural? and Other Burning Questions Answered

Your Guide to Dental Implants in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur

Missing teeth can be a source of frustration and insecurity. They can affect your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and even impact your confidence. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers a revolutionary solution: dental implants.

According to a 2022 National Oral Health Survey conducted by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, six in 10 adults in Malaysia have tooth decay. This means that a significant portion of the adult population in Malaysia may be experiencing tooth loss or require dental treatment to prevent it. Dental implants can be a valuable option for these individuals to restore their smiles and improve their oral health.

At Fresh Dental Care in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, we understand how important a healthy, beautiful smile is. Dental implants are our top recommendation for restoring missing teeth in a way that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth. But you might have some questions. Let’s explore some of the most common concerns people have about dental implants.

Do Dental Implants Feel Natural?

One of the biggest concerns people have about dental implants is whether they feel natural in the mouth. The answer is a resounding yes! While dental implants themselves don’t have the nerves of natural teeth, they provide a very natural feeling in terms of function and stability.

Here’s why:

Sensation and Functionality: Dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, where they fuse over time. This creates a strong, stable foundation that allows you to bite and chew with confidence. The pressure you feel when you bite down with an implant is very similar to the sensation you get with a natural tooth.
Biting Force and Stability: Dental implants are known for their exceptional strength and stability. Unlike dentures or bridges, which can slip or move, implants become a permanent part of your jawbone. This allows you to enjoy all your favourite foods without worrying about discomfort or instability.
Adjusting to Dental Implants: There is usually an adjustment period after dental implant placement. Your mouth may feel a bit different as you heal. However, most patients adjust quickly and find that implants feel very natural within a few weeks.

Can a Loose Dental Implant Be Fixed?

While dental implants have a very high success rate, there’s a slight chance that an implant may become loose over time. This can be caused by several factors, including:

Infection: Improper oral hygiene or underlying gum disease can lead to peri-implantitis, an infection around the implant.
Overloading: Putting excessive stress on the implant, such as through teeth grinding or clenching, can loosen it.
Smoking: Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of implant failure.

If you notice any signs of a loose implant, such as pain, swelling, or difficulty chewing, it’s crucial to see your dentist right away. Early intervention is key to successful treatment.

Here are some treatment options for loose implants:

Tightening the Implant Screw: In some cases, the dentist may simply be able to tighten the screw that holds the implant in place.
Bone Graft: If bone loss has occurred around the implant, a bone graft may be necessary to provide a stable foundation for retightening the implant.

Can Dental Implants Fall Out?

Dental implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95% with proper care. However, certain factors can affect this rate, such as:

Underlying Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes, can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
Smoking: As mentioned earlier, smoking can significantly decrease the success rate of dental implants.
Improper Care: Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups are crucial for the long-term health of your implants.

Do Dental Implants Set Off Metal Detectors?

If you travel frequently or have concerns about metal detectors, you’ll be happy to know that dental implants are typically made of titanium. Titanium is a biocompatible metal that doesn’t trigger metal detectors.

How Old Is Too Old for Dental Implants?

Age is not necessarily a barrier to getting dental implants. In fact, many people in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s successfully receive implants and enjoy the benefits for years to come.

The key factor for successful implant placement is overall health, particularly good bone health. Your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if you’re a good candidate for implants.

Considering Dental Implants? We Can Help!

At Fresh Dental Care in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, we’re passionate about helping our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Dental implants can be a life-changing solution for those with missing teeth.

If you’re considering dental implants and have questions, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll discuss your individual needs and determine if implants are the right option for you.

Contact Fresh Dental Care today and take the first step towards a smile you can be proud of!