Implants Q & A
- Do you do implants?
- What are dental implants and what can they do for me?
- Are implants successful?
- Are implants expensive?
- How much do they cost?
- Does it hurt?
- What is involved in placing an implant?
- What are the benefits?
- How long will it take?
- Will I be without teeth?
- Am I too old for implants?
- What will it feel like when it is done?
- How do I take care of my implants?
A: Yes our office is actively involved with implant dentistry. We manage several implant cases each year. We work in partnership with an entire implant team to provide our patients with the best of care. Implants involve two treatment phases: placement of the implant(s) and placement of the crown or restoration(s). We feel that we can offer better solutions for you by using the expertise of each team member.
Q: What are dental implants and what can they do for me?
A: Implants are today's best substitute for your natural teeth. They offer you the most permanent or secure solution for replacing one or more teeth. They are made out of titanium or similar biocompatible materials and function as the anchor to support traditional forms of dentistry, including crowns, bridges or dentures. Many of our patients will tell you that implants have changed their smiles, their overall appearance and even their lives!
A: Implants have had a high success rate that extends for more than 30 years. For the last 10 years, many centers have reported success rates to be greater than 95%, with proper personal and professional care. Few forms of medical and dental treatment have such high success rates.
A: While dental implants represents a more permanent and natural solution than dentures and partials, there is a greater initial investment. Independent surveys of implant patients show that they felt it was worth every penny and would do it again.
A: Each case is different. Cost is a function of your particular needs as well as expectations. It is similar to asking a car dealer how much it costs to repair a car. I depends on the current problems and an analysis of the situation. During a complete examination, the doctor will more specifically determine your dental needs and the best treatment alternative(s) for you. At that point, we can specifically address the question of cost and help you make financial arrangements.
A: Usually, discomfort is not a problem. In fact many patients have said that having a tooth pulled was more painful. During placement of an implant, the doctor uses anesthetic so there won't be any discomfort. When you leave the office, you will be given medication should you need it. Though you should not have any appreciable discomfort, the doctor and our office are available any time.
Q: What is involved in placing an implant?
A: Our office works with another doctor who actually places the implant(s). This is done in the dental office with anesthetic. A small incision is made and a hole is created in the jaw bone. The implant is placed in the precision opening. The gum tissues are closed and the healing phase begins.
A: Eat whatever you like: Implants improve your health with the ability to chew a wider variety of foods. Smile with confidence: Ugly or missing teeth detract from your appearance. Implant-supported restorations can improve your self-esteem. Express yourself: Implants increase the retention and stability or your restorations. Preserve your facial structure and decrease the likelihood of loss of jaw structure. Improve or correct speech problems: Implants stop movements of bridges or dentures which cause the most speech difficulties.
A: Recent advances are reducing the length or traditional implant procedures. Historically treatment could take anywhere from 4 to 24 months, based on the complexity of your case, where the implants are placed and the type of restoration desired.
A: Unless you require extensive grafting procedures, you will never be without cosmetically acceptable teeth. We will create temporary teeth that look and feel very natural.
A: Implant patients can be young children or adults in their 70's or 80's. Good health is the critical factor in evaluating implant candidates.
Q: What will it feel like when it is done?
A: Once the entire procedure is complete and the final crowns have been placed, they will feel like your natural teeth.
Q: How do I take care of my implants?
A: Normal routine home care and professional cleaning visits are required. It is important to know that every three to four months you will need to visit us for a routine cleaning and recare treatment and evaluation. You have been given a second chance with new teeth and we want to work with you so that nothing happens that could be prevented. Research has show that implants will last in excess of 30 years if maintained with proper personal and professional care.