Dental Implants / General Information
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Dental implants are made of titanium which can be tolerated in the body therefore it fuses with the bone and becomes a good anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used for replacing single or multiple missing teeth.
Why dental implants?
There are a number of reasons why you should consider a dental implant:- Preserving the jawbone: Without the presence of the root of a natural tooth , the jawbone shrinks. This shrinkage will make your face look older than it is.
- It is more conservative procedure than a bridge in case of replacing a single tooth with neighboring healthy teeth.
- It is very solid anchor for dentures and holds the denture in place.
How successful are dental implants?
With more than three decades of clinical experience and over a million patients treated, statistics confirm a success rate of nearly 95 percent for dental implants*, and even higher for the bridges they support.* Results depends on patients general health and home and office maintenance of the implants.
How much is the cost?
The fee for having dental implants depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of dental implants required to support your replacement teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have a dentist examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination and X-Rays your dentist will recommend the treatment that is best for you.Who is a Candidate?
Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factor is the amount of available bone. Your dentist is the best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.Is old age a problem?
Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you're probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate dental implant treatment. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.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 stop bone loss after tooth is removed.Preserve natural teeth
With traditional dental bridges, teeth adjacent to missing teeth are normally ground down to be used as anchors for a dental bridge. Dental implants often eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth.Permanent solution
Replaced teeth supported by dental implant ; look, feel and function almost like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most importantly, dental implants often improve quality of life in a very concrete way. 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. Often they are hard to tell apart from your natural teeth.How much time is required for a dental implant placement?
The process can take from three to six months. First, the dentist places the dental implant, which is left for three 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. Then the prosthetic part can be placed in the following month.The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your dental health, the number of teeth involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits to the dentist throughout the treatment period.
Is the treatment painful?
After any surgery, there can be some discomfort but not pain. Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort than placing several. Anesthesia and patient sedation are commonly administered to help eliminate discomfort during the dental implant placement. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Your doctor may 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 . See your dentist in six months, or more frequently if so advised.