Thinking about getting dental implants? You may already know that implants are a great option to replace missing natural teeth. Dental implants allow you to speak, chew and smile as if you had your natural teeth. Plus, they’re easy to maintain and will prevent your remaining teeth from misaligning.

Most patients are concerned with how long implants take to place and heal—but some people have more unusual questions about the process.

Here are some unusual implant-related questions and their surprising answers:

• Can implants change your sense of smell and taste? Dental implants themselves will not change your sense of smell or taste. However, you have to be free of periodontal disease before new teeth can be implanted. Some patients report improved senses of taste and smell once their gum disease clears up.
• What do implants taste like? Implants are completely taste-free. They’ll seem very similar to, if not the same as your natural teeth.
• Can you feel zygomatic implants in your cheekbones? Zygomatic implants are used when a patient’s upper jawbone cannot support implants. The “roots” are implanted in a part of the cheekbone which lack nerve receptors, so you will never feel them.
• Do you have to floss with implants? Yes, you need to floss between and around your dental implants. The implanted teeth can’t develop cavities, but you still need to protect your natural teeth and gums.
• Can implants change your face shape? Depending on how many teeth you’re replacing, and whether you’ve experienced bone loss, implants can sometimes change your face shape some degree. Often, multiple or full-mouth implants will improve your bite alignment. They can also improve volume for patients with significant bone loss.
• Are implants safe for sporting activities? Yes, with one major exception. If you’re still playing a sport where you’re likely to suffer repeated trauma to the mouth, implants may not be right for you. You cannot get implants at the same site multiple times per year: it’s not enough time for your jaw to heal.
• Will dental implants be sensitive to hot or cold drinks? Pain from hot and cold drinks comes from the nerves in your teeth. Because implants do not have nerves, you won’t experience pain.
• Will dental implants affect my jawbone? Dental implants can actually help prevent bone loss, whether or not you need a bone graft first.
• How long have dental implants existed? Dental implants have existed from at least 2000 BC. Archaeologists found skulls in China which had bamboo pegs to replace missing teeth. Similarly, a Mayan skeleton from 600 AD with shell implants. Fortunately, dental implant technology has come a long way.

Whatever your dental implant questions, Dr. Mike and the Cleveland Implant Institute have the answers. When you schedule a consultation, Dr. Mike will perform an examination and let you know if you’re a good candidate for implants.

Whether you’re eligible for traditional implants, need bone grafts or zygomatic implants, we can help restore your smile. Call the Cleveland Implant Institute today to schedule an appointment.