Questions and Answers About Implants (2024)

1.Do users of implants require follow-up visits?

No. Routine periodic visits are not necessary for implant users. Annual visits may be helpful for other preventive care, but they are not necessary or required. Of course, women are welcome to return at any time with questions or to have implants removed.

2.Can implants be left in a woman’s arm?

Leaving the implants in place beyond their effective lifespan is generally not recommended if the woman continues to be at risk of pregnancy. The implants themselves are not dangerous, but as the hormone levels in the implants drop, they become less and less effective. After they lose effectiveness, they may still release a small dose of hormone for several more years, which serves no purpose.

If a woman wants to continue using implants, she may have a new implant inserted in the other arm even if the first implant is not removed at that time; for example, if removal services are not immediately available.

3. Do implants cause cancer?

No. Studies have not found increased risk of any cancer with use of implants.

4. How long does it take to become pregnant after the implants are removed?

Women who stop using implants can become pregnant as quickly as women who stop nonhormonal methods. Implants do not delay the return of a woman’s fertility after they are removed. The bleeding pattern a woman had before she used implants generally returns after they are removed.

5. Do implants cause birth defects? Will the fetus beharmed if a woman accidentally becomes pregnant with implants in place?

No. Good evidence shows that implants will not cause birth defects and will not otherwise harm the fetus if a woman becomes pregnant while using implants or accidentally has implants inserted when she is alreadypregnant.

6. Can implants come out of a woman’s arm?

Rarely, a rod may start to come out, most often in the first 4 weeks after insertion. This usually happens because they were not inserted well or because of an infection where they were inserted. In these cases, the woman will see the implant(s) coming out. Some women may have a sudden change in bleeding pattern. If a woman notices a rod coming out, she should start using a backup method and return to the clinic at once.

7. Do implants increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy?

No. On the contrary, implants greatly reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies are extremely rare among implant users. The rate of ectopic pregnancy among women with implants is 6 per 100,000 women per year. The rate of ectopic pregnancy among women in the United States using no contraceptive method is 650 per 100,000 women per year.

On the very rare occasions that implants fail and pregnancy occurs, 10–17 of every 100 of these pregnancies are ectopic. Thus, the great majority of pregnancies after implants fail are not ectopic. Still, ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening, and so a provider should be aware that ectopic pregnancy is possible if implants fail.

8. When can a breastfeeding woman start implants?

In 2015, WHO considered this question and updated its guidance to allow a woman to use progestin-only implants after childbirth regardless of how recently she gave birth. She does not need to wait until 6 weeks postpartum. This change in guidance also applies to progestin-only pills and the LNG-IUD. For details on when breastfeeding women can start implants, see the section on When to Start.

9. Should heavy women avoid implants?

No. Some but not all studies have found that Jadelle implants became slightly less effective for heavier women after 4 or more years of use. As a precaution, women weighing over 80 kg may want to have their implants replaced after 4 years for greatest effectiveness. Studies of Implanon have not found that effectiveness decreases for heavier women within the lifespan approved for this type of implant.

10. What should be done if an implant user has an ovariancyst?

The great majority of cysts are not true cysts but actually fluid-filled structures in the ovary (follicles) that continue to grow beyond the usual size in a normal menstrual cycle. They may cause some mild abdominal pain, but they require treatment only if they grow abnormally large, twist, or burst. These follicles usually go away without treatment (see the row on “Severe pain in lower abdomen” in the section of this chapter on Managing Any Problems).

11. Can a woman work soon after having implants inserted?

Yes. A woman can do her usual work immediately after leaving the clinic as long as she does not bump the insertion site or get it wet.

12. Must a woman have a pelvic examination before she can have implants inserted?

No. Instead, asking the right questions can help the provider be reasonably certain she is not pregnant (see Pregnancy Checklist). No condition that can be detected by a pelvic examination rules out use of implants.

13. Can young women, including adolescents, use implants?

Yes. If a young woman wants to use implants, she can. In fact, implants and IUDs can be good methods for young women who want to be sure to avoid pregnancy for a number of years. They are highly effective and long-lasting methods. According to WHO’s Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, age is not relevant to implant use. Implant use will not affect a young woman’s future fertility, whether or not she has already had children.

All young women seeking contraception, whether married or not and whether or not they have had children, can safely choose from the full range of available contraceptive methods. This includes implants, copper-bearing IUDs, and LNG-IUDs. If women want to have children in the future, however, they should not choose female sterilization, which is a permanent method.

14. Should women who are taking efavirenz be offered implants?

Yes. Women taking the antiretroviral (ARV) drug efavirenz as HIV treatment should be offered implants along with the full range of contraceptive methods. However, it is important to tell women who are taking efavirenz that this drug is likely to make the implants less effective. For women taking efavirenz, implants may be about as effective as combined oral contraceptives or male condoms as typically used.

Women taking efavirenz who choose implants should be encouraged to use condoms in addition to implants to enhance protection from pregnancy. Alternatively, they can consider other effective contraceptive methods that do not interact with efavirenz or other ARV drugs. These methods include progestin-only injectables, the copper-bearing IUD, and the LNG-IUD, or—if they want no more children—female sterilization or vasectomy for their partner.

A user of implants who is starting on efavirenz or already taking it should be told about this reduced effectiveness. A provider can then help her decide whether to keep using implants or switch to another, more effective method. If she prefers another method, the provider can remove the implants and help her start the other method.

Questions and Answers About Implants (2024)

FAQs

What questions to ask for implants? ›

Your provider will need to consider the following elements when determining the cost of implants:
  • The quality and amount of existing bone in your jaw.
  • The number of implants you need to support your teeth.
  • The number of teeth that need replacing.
  • The type of artificial teeth to be used (single cap, partial denture, etc.)

What is the biggest reason implants fail? ›

The most common reason why dental implants fail is because of an infection in the jawbone around dental implants, called peri-implantitis. Although implants cannot develop tooth decay, they are still susceptible to the implant form of gum disease.

What can you not do after an implant? ›

What NOT to Do After Dental Implant Surgery
  • Smoke. The overall success of the dental implant procedure relies on your jawbone fusing to the post through a process called osseointegration. ...
  • Rinse Aggressively. ...
  • Strenuous Exercise. ...
  • Hot or Hard Foods. ...
  • Use a Straw.
Nov 30, 2021

What are the 4 types of implants? ›

There are four types of dental implant restorations that can be used to replace missing teeth. These four types of restorations are called single tooth implants, implant supported dentures, full mouth acryllic (pmma), and full arch dental implants.

What foods can you not eat with dental implants? ›

Foods to Avoid After Getting Dental Implants
  • Crunchy and hard foods, such as potato chips, taco shells, hard candies, seeds, and nuts.
  • Sticky foods, such as caramels.
  • Acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits.
  • Hot and spicy foods, including soups, coffee, tea, and foods with heavy spices or peppers.
Jan 20, 2022

What are the 3 components about dental implants? ›

Every time you replace a tooth with a dental implant, there are three parts involved: the implant, the implant abutment, and the fixed restoration. Together, the three segments make up the replacement “tooth” that's generally referred to as the dental implant.

Who is not a good candidate for implants? ›

Patients currently undergoing radiation treatment (or who have undergone radiation treatment in the past) affecting their face and neck are poor candidates for receiving dental implants.

What do I need to know before getting implants? ›

What to consider before you get a breast augmentation
  • Implants or fat transfer? ...
  • A breast augmentation cannot fix sagging breasts. ...
  • Breast implants will need to be replaced at some point. ...
  • Expect to have additional breast surgery in the future. ...
  • Choosing a breast implant type is not as simple as saline vs silicone fill.
Feb 13, 2018

What is one of the major concerns about breast implants? ›

Breast implants aren't guaranteed to last a lifetime.

The average life span of an implant is about 10 years. Implant rupture is a possibility. Also, your breasts will continue to age, and factors such as weight gain or weight loss might change the way your breasts look. These issues will likely lead to more surgery.

What percentage of implants go wrong? ›

It's estimated that about 5 to 10 percent of dental implants fail, either shortly after a procedure or months or years later. If you're scheduled to have dental implant surgery, or if you currently have an implant, here's what you need to know about implant failure and other potential complications.

How long do dental implants last? ›

The average lifespan of a dental implant is anywhere from 10 -30 years. This means that most likely, depending on your age when you get an implant, it will last for the rest of your life. No other tooth replacement option has the ability to last that long.

How long after the implant can I shower? ›

Keep the dressing on for 24 hours. After 24 hours, you can remove the dressing and take a shower or bath. You can resume normal exercise the day after insertion.

How long does it take to recover from an implant? ›

After 2 weeks, most patients are fully recovered. The implant site may feel slightly tender to the touch, but should feel completely healed and normal. The implant will continue to heal and bond with the jaw bone over the following 3-6 months, but the initial healing process will be over.

How do you sleep after dental implants? ›

When it comes to sleeping position following dental surgery, it is a good idea to make sure to elevate the head. A good angle to achieve while sleeping is 45 degrees. You should sleep in the position for the first 36 to 48 hours following the surgery.

What size implants are most popular? ›

After surgery, the most common size of breasts is a small to large C cup, with average implants measuring between 350 and 500cc.

What are the best implants to get? ›

Saline implants are FDA approved for use on younger women (18+) and are easier to remove. Silicone implants have a very natural feel, even outside of the breast. Saline implants are less expensive than silicone. Gummy bear implants hold their shape very well over time and are highly unlikely to leak into the breasts.

What implants look the most natural? ›

Silicone implants require a larger incision and cannot be adjusted after placement. On the other hand, silicone implants look and feel more natural, even when placed above the muscles of the chest, and are unlikely to ripple, wrinkle, bisect, or otherwise become aesthetically impacted.

Can I drink coffee with implants? ›

Is Coffee Okay After Implant Surgery? After implant surgery, your gums are healing from having an incision made through them. It is vitally important that you avoid drinking hot coffee, tea or hot chocolate after the procedure itself for up to two or three days.

Can you bite into an apple with dental implants? ›

Cut them first. Avoid biting straight into an apples if you have dental implants – after all this may have been the action that lead you to needing dental implants. Apples, and other hard fruits and vegetables, should be avoided in the weeks immediately following your procedure, and consumed with care in the long run.

What drinks to avoid after dental implants? ›

Sugar causes bacteria in your mouth which can lead to plaque buildup around your dental implant, damaging the dental implant site and leading to infection. This is why it's important to avoid sugary drinks such as soda, juice, and sports drinks. You should also be mindful of sugary snacks like candy or cookies.

What is the most expensive part of a dental implant? ›

The most expensive part, though, is the crown, which can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. The total per tooth is typically between $1,500 and $6,000. The final price is determined by two factors: the number of implants and the condition of your gums.

Do they pull all your teeth for implants? ›

Single dental implants work just as well as full-arch dental implants but do not require the removal of all of your teeth! The only parts removed are any remaining damaged teeth so that the implant can be placed, leaving all your healthy teeth intact!

What holds a tooth implant in place? ›

The abutment sits along the gum line and is the part of a dental implant that holds the replacement tooth in place. The abutment is screwed onto the fixture, then the replacement tooth is attached to the abutment.

What is the negative impact of implants? ›

Dental implants have a high success rate of around 95%, and they lead to an increased quality of life for many people. However, dental implants can cause complications, such as infections, gum recession, and nerve and tissue damage.

How long does full dental implant surgery take? ›

Implant Surgery

This surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours for each implant being placed. After this step is complete, most dentist will wait about 3 months before the final restoration of the tooth replacement.

What is the best age for implants? ›

Depends on the patient, but many people should try to avoid placing anterior implants at the age of 18. These studies show that for some people, the best long term esthetics will be achieved if the patient waits until the age of 25 or 30.

How painful is it to get implants? ›

A straightforward dental implant, for a patient with good bones and who does not need a lot of soft tissue surgery, has a pain level between two and three in the first 24 to 48 hours, which means over-the-counter medication like Tylenol or Advil will take care of any discomfort they are feeling.

Are implants worth the money? ›

While bridges and dentures typically last about five years, implants can last 30 years or longer. Therefore, dental implants cost more today, but can potentially save you a great deal of time, money, and comfort in the long run.

What is the new warning about breast implants? ›

Know the Long-Term Risks of Breast Implants

The FDA has identified an association between breast implants and the development of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Can your body reject breast implants years later? ›

If you're worried that your immune system could react to the implant and reject it, this won't happen. It's vital to know if you consider breast augmentation that modern implants are approved by the FDA and safe. This means there will never be a rejection or immune system reaction when the implants are put in the body.

Can breast implants cause problems years later? ›

More than 100 symptoms have been associated with breast implant illness, including headaches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. Symptoms can occur with any type of breast implants and can start immediately after implantation or years later.

What are the three major reasons for failure of implants? ›

Below are 7 of the main reasons why a dental implant can fail:
  • #1 Misalignment of The Implant: ...
  • #2 Poorly Taken Impressions. ...
  • #3 Peri-Implantitis And Other Infections. ...
  • #4 Failed Osseointegration. ...
  • #5 Nerve Damage. ...
  • #6 Failure of The Implant Itself. ...
  • #7 Foreign body rejection and Allergic reaction.

Do breast implants ever look normal? ›

"If the natural base of the breast is small, and the implants are very much larger, then they will tend to look fake. For example, if a woman wants to go from a B cup to a D cup, she will probably look fantastic and natural, as opposed to one who wants to go from an A cup to F cup who will see a more dramatic result."

Can my body reject implants? ›

According to the International Congress of Oral Implantologists it is rare that your body will reject your dental implants. However, this does not mean that your dental implant will not fail. A successful dental implant is one that is placed in healthy bone and is properly cared for after the surgery takes place.

How much do dental implants cost in the US? ›

While the cost of dental implants can vary depending on the individual case, a single dental implant typically costs between $1,500 to $2,000 per implant, not per procedure.

Who is responsible for dental implant failure? ›

While dental implants can fail for a number of reasons unrelated to your prosthodontist's competence or performance, some failures are the dentist's fault and the law requires accountability. If you have been the victim of a failed dental implant caused by your dentist's negligence, Lance Ehrenberg, Esq.

Do dental implants set off metal detectors? ›

In most cases, modern dental implants are primarily made from titanium, a non-magnetic metal. So, titanium dental implants should rarely trigger metal detectors.

Why do you have to wait 7 days after implant? ›

You will need to abstain from sex or use a back-up method, like a condom, for 7 days after the procedure. This gives the implant time to start working properly. If you were taking a different form of birth control before getting Nexplanon you can continue to take it for the 7 days or as recommended by your doctor.

Can you use Listerine after implants? ›

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. The night of surgery rinse with warm salt water (teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water); do not use mouth rinses such as Scope or Listerine. The day after surgery warm salt water rinses should be used at least 4-5 times a day, especially after meals.

What soft foods can I eat after dental implant surgery? ›

Immediately after surgery, we recommend eating smoothies, yogurt, ice cream, pudding, applesauce, mashed potatoes, creamy soups and broth, and other such soft/liquid foods.

How can I make my dental implant heal faster? ›

How Can I Make My Dental Implant Heal Faster?
  1. #1 – Getting Enough Rest. Harriston Family Dentistry cannot overemphasize the importance of rest. ...
  2. #2 – Staying Hydrated. ...
  3. #3 – Eating Soft and Healthy Foods. ...
  4. #4 – Saltwater Rinses. ...
  5. #5 – Avoid Smoking. ...
  6. #6 – Using Ice Packs. ...
  7. Conclusion.
Apr 1, 2022

What happens the day after dental implant? ›

First 24 Hours After Dental Implant Surgery

In the first 24 hours, you may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold. Avoid hot, spicy foods and carbonated or alcoholic beverages. You should restrict your activities and plan on getting plenty of rest the first day after your surgery.

What hurts more tooth extraction or implant? ›

Patients can be informed that, in general, implant placement surgical experience is less unpleasant compared to tooth extraction with less postsurgical pain and limitation of daily activities. However, some factors can increase the pain intensity and discomfort level on individual bases.

Why do I feel sick after dental implants? ›

If you find yourself feeling sick, you don't need to be worried. There are many reasons you might be sick after your surgery, including blood swallowed during and after the operation and reactions to the anesthesia and pain medication. Sore throat – This is a relatively common side effect of oral surgery.

How long do you have to sleep elevated after dental implants? ›

It is recommended to sleep with an elevated head for at least the first 72 hours after surgery, especially since swelling is predicted to peak after 48 hours.

Why am I so tired after dental implants? ›

To keep your dental implant securely in place for decades to come, a small titanium post will be placed into your jawbone. Since this requires oral surgery, it's completely natural to feel a little tired or sore afterwards. After all, your mouth needs time to adapt to the major change it just underwent.

How many cc's is a full cup size? ›

A: A much-generalized rule of thumb is that one cup size is about 175cc. Therefore, if you are an A-cup and desire to be a full C-cup you should expect to try implants around 350cc.

Do implants look bigger at first? ›

Your breast implants may appear to be bigger or fuller once they've dropped to a lower, more natural-looking position on your chest and "fluffed" into a rounder and softer shape. Changes in the size or shape of your new breasts after augmentation can also occur as swelling and tightness subside.

Do larger implants cost more? ›

Small vs Large Implants

However, one factor that will not impact the cost of an implant is its size. The implant manufacturers charge a flat rate for a pair of breast implants. So a pair of C cup implants will cost the same as a pair of D cups. This is true for both saline and silicone implants.

What is the next best thing to dental implants? ›

What Are The Alternatives To Dental Implants?
  1. Bridges. Dental bridges are another alternative to implants for missing teeth. ...
  2. Partial Dentures. Dentures are a type of dental prosthesis used to replace missing teeth. ...
  3. Flippers.
Nov 14, 2022

What is better than dental implants? ›

Classic Dental Bridge

If you're missing a tooth already and you'd prefer an alternative to the implant, a dental bridge might be the right treatment for you. This restoration treatment uses two crowns on either side of the space where your tooth is missing and then places a replacement tooth in the middle.

Are upper or lower implants easier? ›

The success rate for upper jaw implants is a little lower because the upper jaw is less dense than the lower jaw. This makes implantation more difficult for the oral surgeon, and more difficult for osseointegration (the process where the implant integrates with the jaw bone) to take place.

What is the healthiest option for breast implants? ›

Both saline and silicone breast implants are considered safe. Research on how safe both types of implants are and how well they work is ongoing.

What questions to ask before breast implant surgery? ›

8 Questions to Ask Your Breast Augmentation Surgeon
  • Ask About the Practice's Background. ...
  • Ask What Procedures They Offer. ...
  • Ask What You Can Expect During Surgery. ...
  • Ask for Information on Implant Types. ...
  • Ask About Risks and Safety Precautions. ...
  • Ask About Recovery Time. ...
  • Ask About Breast Reduction/Lift Surgery.

What are the most convincing breast implants? ›

The biggest reason many women prefer silicone implants is because they look and feel more natural than saline in most cases, particularly in thin patients. The gel has a more convincing consistency that feels realistic.

What questions should I ask my surgeon before breast augmentation? ›

12 Questions to Ask During a Breast Augmentation Consultation
  • Are you board-certified in plastic surgery? ...
  • Do you specialize in breast augmentation? ...
  • Where will you perform my surgery? ...
  • Am I a Candidate for Breast Augmentation? ...
  • What are my options for breast augmentation? ...
  • How can I prepare for surgery?

What I wish I knew before getting a boob job? ›

More on that below, along with other real life intel after a decade-plus with implants.
  • Implants don't last forever. ...
  • Know what can—and can't—be achieved. ...
  • Your options have changed. ...
  • Aesthetic preferences have changed too. ...
  • Implants have their risks, so do your research. ...
  • Be prepared for downtime. ...
  • They don't come cheap.
Apr 26, 2021

How do I prepare my body for breast implants? ›

Get a blood test. Take certain medications or adjust your current medications. Stop smoking. Avoid taking aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs as they can increase bleeding.

How long does it take for breasts to heal after implants? ›

Breast augmentation recovery

On average, a full recovery period usually takes about four to six weeks. It's important to refrain from physical activity, lifting heavy objects and overworking yourself during this sensitive time.

What is the most natural looking boob job? ›

Silicone implants require a larger incision and cannot be adjusted after placement. On the other hand, silicone implants look and feel more natural, even when placed above the muscles of the chest, and are unlikely to ripple, wrinkle, bisect, or otherwise become aesthetically impacted.

What implants feel most natural? ›

Silicone breast implants tend to feel more like natural breast tissue than saline alternatives. This is particularly true of the form stable (“gummy bear”) breast implant, which is filled with a cohesive gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue almost perfectly.

What implants look the best? ›

Silicone breast implants are pre-filled with silicone gel. Compared to saline implants, they more closely mimic the look and feel of your natural breasts.

What not to do before breast surgery? ›

You must be nicotine and smoke-free for at least 4 weeks prior to surgery. You must also be free of any nicotine patch or nicotine-based products for a minimum of 4 weeks prior to surgery. This includes e-cigarettes, vapes, and marijuana or other THC-based products. Stay away from second-hand smoke, too.

What is the best surgical approach for breast augmentation? ›

Inframammary fold or Sub-pectoral

This procedure involves an incision in the fold underneath the breast and tends to allow the surgeon more direct control of implant positioning. About 70 to 80 percent of breast augmentations are performed using an inframammary fold procedure.

Why did my surgeon tell me not to wear a bra after breast augmentation? ›

Some surgeons say not to wear a bra at first because the implants need time to 'settle in. ' A bra, no matter the type, will alter the shape and position of the breasts somewhat. Pressure from your bra offers support and increases comfort, but it can change the final appearance of the breasts.

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