We have divided our implant information into several sections because of the differences between the common conditions of tooth loss and the solutions.  This section contains general information.  The second is about single implants or implants to secure bridges.  The third has information about anchoring dentures.

 

What is a dental implant?

    A dental implant is a small screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth or teeth.  Because it's made of Titanium (the same metal used for hip replacements and submarines, etc.), the dental implant fuses with bone and becomes a new anchor for a replacement tooth or to anchor dentures.  This bond is very strong and in the case of replacing a single tooth will make you feel you have your natural tooth back.  For denture wearers implants will allow you to eat what everyone else does and know absolutely that your denture won't move.

 Why dental implants?

   There are a number of reasons why you should consider dental implants over doing nothing or a traditional bridge or unanchored dentures:

   Save bone--Without the root structure of a natural tooth present, the jawbone will shrink. You can lose 40-60% of the bone within the first year!  This shrinkage will make your face look older and will cause your remaining teeth to shift and tilt.  This can loosen them and cause wear leading to problems and additional expense.  Placing an implant as soon as possible after an extraction will preserve bone. 

Preserve opposing teeth--When you have a gap of even one missing tooth, it can affect the stability of your entire mouth.  If multiple are missing (whether several in a row or scattered throughout the mouth) each gap affects at least three other teeth.  The two on either side will tip into the space causing weakened roots and lop-sided wear.  The tooth or teeth opposing a gap will tend to move into that space because there is no longer a tooth to press against.

Prevent excess wear and possible TMJ pain--If you chew on only one side of your mouth those teeth will wear unevenly, they are not meant to carry the entire force of chewing.  Also, instead of pressure being equally distributed on both sides of your mouth as you eat, one side will take the entire burden which it is not designed to do.  This puts stress and strain on your temporomandibular joint resulting in localized pain or headaches.

Self-esteem and confidence--Most people lose more than a tooth or teeth when they have extractions.  They lose a sense of wholeness and confidence even if no one else knows the tooth is gone.  If the loss is noticeable when talking and laughing self-consciousness is always present.  To hide the gap people cover their mouth with their hand, angle their head away from people or don't smile and laugh.  This is a huge social price to pay for missing teeth.  

 Are dental implants successful?

     With a success rate of over 95% dental implants are the most successful dental procedure.  With proper care and maintenance (just as you would care for natural teeth), an implant will serve its owner for a lifetime.   

 How much do dental implants cost?

     The fees for each individual can vary widely.  The reason for this is the size and number of      implant(s) required depend on the depth, width, and density of existing bone in the implant site(s).  Some cases may require bone grafting.  To obtain a specific estimate, we need to see you.  Our implant consults are always NO COST.  We know you'll have lots of questions.  Call to schedule today!

 What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a dental bridge?

     Improved appearance: When you lose the entire tooth - crown and root - shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older.  Dental implants can stop this process.  A traditional denture or dental bridge doesn’t.

     Preserve natural teeth: With traditional dental bridges, teeth adjacent to missing teeth are normally ground down to pegs to be used as anchors for a dental bridge.  Dental implants usually eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth.

     More natural solution:  The dental implant is stable and comfortable like your original teeth. 

How will dental implants affect my life?

     In only positive ways!  Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth.  This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose.  But most importantly, dental implants improve quality of life in a very concrete ways.  People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.

Will my new teeth look natural?

     When dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations.  Usually they are hard to tell apart from your natural teeth. 

Will I be able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural teeth?

     Yes!  Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth.

How much time is required for a dental implant placement?

     Today, state-of-the-art guided surgical techniques are convenient alternatives to place dental implants and allow you to have the dental implant placed in a single session using keyhole surgery.  This new method has significantly simplified the procedure, for both patients and dentists.  The major advantage of the guided surgical technique is the minimal amount of manipulation of the soft tissue due to keyhole surgery.  This significantly reduces the healing time and the discomfort normally associated with traditional dental implant surgical techniques.

     The conventional process can take from three to six months.  First, the dentist places the dental implant, which is left for three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone.  During the healing period, your are given a temporary prosthesis until the permanent crown is put in place.

     The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your dental health, the number of teeth involved, which teeth are replaced, and the amount of available bone for implantation.  

Is the treatment painful?

     As with any surgery, there can be some discomfort.  Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort then placing several.  Anesthesia and patient sedation are commonly administered to help reduce any discomfort during the dental implant process.  Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated.  Your doctor will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur.  

How will I feel after the treatment?

     It is normal to have some bruising and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an ordinary painkiller. You should expect to be able to work the next day.

How will I care for my dental implants?

     Your new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your natural teeth.  Brush and floss as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist.  See your dentist in six months, or more frequently if so advised.

Call today to make your free consultation appointment.