Dental implant surgery is an elective procedure that can be used to restore missing adult teeth. People usually choose this procedure because the idea of permanent tooth replacement is appealing despite the initial cost and recovery time. Here are four questions patients commonly have when planning a dental implant procedure.

1. Can your regular dentist provide dental implants?

Your dentist may be able to perform your dental implant procedure. However, they may prefer to refer you to a dental implant provider. Dental implant providers specialize in oral surgery. They can install your dental implant, perform additional procedures such as bone augmentations, and craft your prosthetic teeth. It's best to see the specialist your dentist recommends so you can take advantage of the highest-quality dentistry.

2. Will you have an allergic reaction to your implants?

Dental implants are often metal posts that are embedded in your gums. Endosteal implants are placed into a space made in your jawbone, while subperiosteal implants are placed above your jawbone. Either way, the metal will be in constant contact with your gum tissue, which can be a cause for concern among people with metal allergies. Fortunately, dental implants are often made from titanium, which is a hypoallergenic metal. Your body should not have a negative reaction to your titanium dental implants.

3. How soon will your dental implant procedure be completed?

The time it takes to get your dental implants will depend on the type of procedure you and your dentist choose. Ordinarily, the process takes several months because the tissue is allowed to fully heal between steps. If you're anxious to have your dental implants ready sooner, you can talk to your dentist about receiving same-day implants. Same-day procedures don't begin until your prosthetic teeth are ready; once your artificial teeth are ready, your dentist will place your implant and attach your prosthesis during the same appointment. You can expect the dental implant process to take up to six months, depending on the type you choose.

4. What are dental prosthetics made of?

During the final step of your dental implant procedure, artificial teeth will be put in place. They will be attached to abutments that connect to your implant posts. The prosthetic teeth themselves are not made from metal. Instead, they are typically crafted from composite resin, porcelain, or acrylic. If you're missing a single tooth, your prosthesis will resemble an individual tooth. People who are missing two or more teeth may receive prostheses that resemble partial dentures.

To learn more about dental implants, contact a dentist.