July 2, 2025

Nervous About Dental Implants? FAQs on the Entire Process with Real Patients

Last Updated:
July 2, 2025
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Ricky pulling down lip to show dental implants with facebook questions in the background

Table of Contents

Let’s be honest—getting dental implants isn’t something most people look forward to. It’s surgery. It’s a big decision. And for many of us, it comes after years of pain, embarrassment, and frustration with our teeth.

I get it. I’ve been there. So has my friend Troy, who joined me on the podcast to answer real questions from the Nuvia SML MKRs Facebook group. We’ve both lived this journey—from failing teeth to permanent ones. And we’re here to walk you through what it’s really like.

*Actual NUVIA patient(s) who may have been compensated for sharing their story. Not all those who come in for a consultation are eligible for this treatment. Results may vary in individual cases.

What’s the Dental Implant Process Like?

The first question we got was from Ken. He asked, “What are the time gaps between removing your teeth, placing the implants, and getting the new ones?”

Great question. And the answer? At Nuvia, it all happens in just 24 hours.

Troy had his teeth removed and implants placed on a Wednesday. By Thursday afternoon, he had a brand-new set of permanent teeth. No temporaries. No waiting 10+ months like traditional methods. Same thing happened with me—I walked in one day with failing teeth, and after coming back the next day, I walked out smiling with a new smile.

“I’m Scared of the Dentist”—You’re Not Alone

Martha shared that she was terrified of the dentist and nervous about the idea of permanent teeth in 24 hours.

We hear this all the time. Fear of the unknown is real—and common. Most of us who end up at Nuvia have avoided the dentist for years. But the truth is, once you get in the door and talk to the team, it all starts to feel possible.

And the pain? Nuvia’s surgical team includes a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), so you’re safely asleep during surgery. Recovery is usually mild. Most people are back to their routines within days—not weeks.

I had my procedure on a Thursday, took Friday off, and was back to work Monday. Troy works on a farm and was up and moving in a few days too. Everyone’s different, but it’s not nearly as intense as most people fear.

What Can You Eat After?

This is one of the top questions we get.

Troy was eating stuffed salmon and mac and cheese by day 17. I had mashed potatoes and meatloaf within the first week. The only real restriction is sticking to soft foods for the first few weeks while your implants heal.

Once your four-month appointment rolls around and your implants have fully integrated with the bone, you’ll most likely be cleared to eat anything you want. Apples, steak, crunchy tacos—you name it.

Do the Teeth Feel Like Dentures?

Karna asked if permanent arches feel like dentures or bulky appliances. She said her current ones feel uncomfortable and change how she talks.

I’ve never had dentures, but I did grow up watching my parents struggle with them. They’d take them out the second they got home. They never fit right. That’s not what I’ve experienced with my permanent teeth.

Troy and I both agree: our new teeth feel normal. They feel like our real teeth. After a few minor adjustments, we forget they’re even there. They don’t shift. They don’t rub. And they definitely don’t come out at night.

What’s the Success Rate?

Eddie asked about the success rate of dental implants and said he’s thinking about dentures because of cost and the “rigorous” process.

Here’s the truth: the success rate at Nuvia is 99.13%.

That’s not just high—it’s practically unheard of and is actually higher than the reported success of other large studies on dental implants placed by other providers (1). Plus, when you get permanent teeth, you’re not dealing with adhesives, removing teeth, or that constant reminder that your smile isn’t really yours. These are fixed.

It’s important to remember that dentures come with ongoing costs. Overtime it is likely that you will frequently find yourself needing a reline or getting replacement dentures. These costs can add up overtime. On the other hand, dental implants are a one time, fixed cost. They are a permanent solution, not some patchwork fix that could end up costing more down the line.

And the process to get them is incredibly simple. You take a 60-second quiz, talk to a team member, and show up to your consultation. It’s smooth and designed to get you your new smile quickly.

If you have more questions about cost, see the dental implant cost guide here.

Do They Last Forever?

Carol wanted to know how long the implants last and what kind of maintenance they need.

They’re meant to last a lifetime—but you’ve got to do your part. Brush, floss, use mouthwash, and keep your yearly checkups. Nuvia teaches you exactly how to care for them, even if you’ve never had good dental habits before.

This is your shot at a second chance. Take care of them, and they’ll take care of you.

Troy pointing to ricky's smile with dental implants

Got More Questions?

If you’ve got questions like these, the SML MKR Club on Facebook is full of real patients who’ve been in your shoes. We’ve lived through the fear, the cost worries, the recovery questions—and we’re here to help.

And if you’re ready to see if you might be a candidate for permanent teeth in 24 hours, take the 60-second quiz. It changed my life. It might change yours too.

Sources

Source: (1) Pjetursson, B. E., Thoma, D., Jung, R., Zwahlen, M., & Zembic, A. (2012). A systematic review of the survival and complication rates of implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) after a mean observation period of at least 5 years. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 23(Suppl 6), 22-38.

FAQs

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Ricky C

SML MKR

Ricky has been enjoying life with his dental implants for over 3 years. After struggling with dental issues that made him self-conscious, limited he could eat, and impacted his health, Ricky now shares his story to help others understand what’s possible. He’s passionate about showing people that life after implants can mean real freedom, better health, and a reason to smile every day. 

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Cost Guide

Dental Implant Cost Guide

2025 Cost Guide

This guide is designed to walk you step by step through the dental implant process and each dental implant type with their associated costs.

  • Different implant types and their average costs
  • 4 little known factors that affect pricing
  • How much will dental & health insurance typically cover for dental implants?
  • What 1000’s of average Americans are doing to make this treatment affordable.
  • And more...
Get the Guide

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