Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Dental Implants?
 Dental implants are small titanium fixtures that are placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw. The implants bond with the bone and act as an anchor for replacement teeth.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Several options are available to restore your lost teeth; your dentist will discuss these with you in detail.
Patients who have chosen implant supported teeth report that they are happy and comfortable for the first time since the loss of their original teeth.
back to top
Who Should Have Dental Implants?
Anyone missing teeth is a candidate for dental implants. A consultation with your dentist will clarify what type of treatment you require. Some cases can be relatively simple. All facets of your implant treatment will be discussed with you in detail after a thorough diagnosis is made.
Your diagnosis for dental implant treatment will include x-rays, study models, measurements, clinical exams and an evaluation of your medical conditions.
This photo shows that this patient has significant tooth wear and tooth loss in the posterior (back) areas.
This photo shows the remaining upper teeth restored with porcelain crowns and five implants placed to replace the missing posterior teeth.
This photo shows this patients entire mouth completely restored with the use of dental implants in combination with porcelain crowns.
This patients' mouth has been restored to its original form and function. What a beautiful result!
back to top
Can anyone receive dental implants?
Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates.
back to top
What can I expect during this procedure?
The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the "artificial root" into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. Medications may be prescribed for soreness.
back to top
How long does the process take?
The process can take up to nine months to complete. Technology, however, is trying to decrease the healing time involved. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the screws and posts are placed surgically, the healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months.
back to top
What is the success rate of dental implants?
The success rate for implants depends on the tooth's purpose and location in the mouth. The success rate is about 98 percent for those placed in the front of the lower jaw and 95 percent for those placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw.
back to top
How do I care for dental implants?
Your overall health may affect the success rate of dental implants. Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some dental implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Our staff will give you specific instructions on how to care
for your new dental implants. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure that you retain healthy gums.
back to top
What is the cost of dental implants?
Since implants involve surgery and are more involved, they cost more than traditional bridge work. However, some dental procedures and
portions of the restoration may be covered by dental and medical insurance policies. Our financial coordinator can help you with this process.
back to top
Sources:
"Dental implants: Are they for me?", Quintessence Books, 1993; Compendium, September 1997; Journal of American Dental Association,
August 1998; American Academy of Implant Dentistry; American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics; Consumer Reports.
This information was compiled for you by the Academy of General Dentistry. Your dentist cares about long-term dental health for you and your family and demonstrates that concern by belonging to the Academy of General Dentistry. As one of the 35,000 general dentists in the United States and Canada who are members of the Academy, your dentist participates in an ongoing program of professional development and continuing education to remain current with advances in the profession and to provide quality patient treatment. Visit the AGD's website at www.agd.org.
back to services
|
