A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that fits, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth.
Are implants safe? What is the success rate?
Implants are very safe. They are considered the best option for tooth replacement for patients who are candidates. Implants have a success rate of 95% to 98%.
How long before I will have my new tooth?
The length of treatment depends on your bone, where the implant is placed, and how many implants are placed. Treatment time for most implants varies from six to twelve weeks. In certain situations, a tooth can be placed on the implant at the same time the implant is placed. If this is not possible, you will have a temporary tooth replacement so that you never have to go with an empty space where you are missing the tooth.
Are implants painful?
Implants are not painful. Most patients tell us that implants are less invasive than tooth extraction.
Will I need to take time off work?
Most patients return to work the day after implant placement. Complex cases can require some time for recuperation.
Are implants covered by my dental benefits?
There are many types of dental benefit plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.
How much do implants cost?
Conventional bridges typically need to be replaced approximately every ten years. As implants have much greater long-term success rates and longevity, they are the most long-term cost effective treatment. As with other choices in life — such as purchasing medical or automobile insurance or buying a home – the least expensive option is not always the best option. The actual cost depends on the specific needs of each patient, so we will first need to evaluate to determine if you are an implant candidate.
What about a dental bridge instead of the implant?
With a bridge, the dentist must “cut down” your two adjacent teeth into pegs possibly introducing further problems down the road. Dental implants often the most conservative treatment to replace missing teeth.
I have been told that I am not a candidate for dental implants because I do not have enough bone for implants. Is there any other options?
Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.
Today, we have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance.
There are many different situations that can be treated with bone grafts including ridge augmentation, sinus lift procedures, and socket augmentation grafts.
Restorative Abutment
Final Crown
