By John E. Russo, DMD | July 3, 2025
Major tooth loss can profoundly impact how you look, eat, speak, and feel. Dental implants offer a long-term solution to restoring your smile’s functionality and esthetics. At John E. Russo, D.M.D. Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we know you probably have questions about this treatment. Your Orlando, Florida, tooth implant dentist addresses your queries and concerns here.
What are dental implants?
Implants are artificial tooth roots that replace real tooth roots after teeth go missing. They come in the form of biocompatible titanium or ceramic screws that are inserted into your jaw surgically to fuse with your bone and heal. The fusing process can take months to complete. Once the implant is firmly in place, Dr. Russo will attach connectors called abutments and your new teeth – crown, bridge, or dentures – to complete your smile.
Who qualifies for teeth implants?
If you’re in good health, have good oral health, and are missing one or more teeth, you may be a candidate for implants. Dr. Russo will evaluate your tooth, gum, and jawbone health to see if you fit this treatment well.
Are dental implants permanent?
Once implants fuse with your jawbone, they become a permanent part of your jaw, so the process is considered permanent. With good oral care, implants have the potential to last a lifetime. Your crown, bridge, or denture can last up to 20 years. When your restorations need upgrading, Dr. Russo can attach new teeth to the same implants, saving you the expense of another surgery.
Is getting implants painful?
As implants are an invasive treatment, Dr. Russo will use anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout your procedure. After the anesthesia wears off, you may feel some discomfort as your gums will be sore and tender for a few days. These symptoms can generally be managed with OTC or prescribed pain medication.
Before & After Results
Implants placed by Dr. Russo and restored with an implant supported bridge
Implants were placed by Dr. Russo and restored with an implant-supported bridge. This is a maxillary (upper) case and is combined with veneers.
Can dental implants get cavities?
No, implants cannot suffer decay. However, the gum tissues supporting your implants are prone to gum disease, which can destabilize them. That’s why it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. You care for implants just like you do natural teeth by brushing and flossing daily. Dr. Russo will also schedule periodic checkups and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy over the years.
Are implants my best option for replacing lost teeth?
Implants offer numerous benefits over other restorative treatments, making them a great option for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. With implants, you’ll enjoy full tooth functionality for biting and chewing, as your new teeth will have the support of artificial tooth roots to keep them from coming loose. Your new teeth will look and feel real, giving you the confidence to smile at every opportunity. Implants can also improve oral health by preventing bone loss, dental drift, bite problems, and painful chewing.
Who offers teeth implants near me?
You can contact Dr. John Russo in Orlando, FL, at (407) 470-1224 for all your dental implant needs.
