Dental implants are substitutes for the roots of missing teeth. Dental implants act as an anchor for replacement teeth or a replacement tooth or crown.

Am I a candidate for implants?

People of all ages may be implant patients. Implants could be the right choice for anyone missing one or more teeth due to disease, decay, or injury. Implants are especially practical to patients who are no longer able to wear partial dentures. Your dentist can choose if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful look through your dental and medical history.

Are there different kinds of implants?

There are many shapes, sizes and brands of implants available. Your American Academy of Implant Dentistry credentialed implant dentist will know which type of implant is the right for you.

Do I have enough bone?

It is important for a patient to have enough oral bone to support the dental implant. If you do not have enough bone, there are many effective and safe ways to correct bone deficiency. Your dentist will assess this and advise you if additional bone material is needed.

Will this take a long time?

Treatment time can vary greatly depending on your needs. Each situation needs a separate evaluation; your American Academy of Implant Dentistry certified dentist will be able to give you an approximate timetable.

Whom should I consult for my implant treatment?

Your general dentist is your first resource for this service. The key factor is the implant dentist's training, experience and credentials. American Academy of Implant Dentistry credentialed dentists include general dentists, prosthodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons who perform the restorative and/or surgical procedures.

What is involved in placing implants?

Initially, surgery takes place to place the anchor. Surgery can last for several hours. In many cases, up to six months may be required for the bone to grow around the anchor and firmly hold its place. Some dental implants require a second surgery where the post is attached to connect the anchor to the replacement tooth. With other dental implants, the anchor and post are already attached and are placed the exact same time.

The next step begins after the gums have had many weeks to heal. Artificial teeth are made in a lab and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings are required, the step can take up to two months for completion.

Implant surgery can be done either in a hospital of dental, depending upon some factors. A general or local anesthetic may be used in surgery. In many cases, pain medications and antibiotics are prescribed when necessary. Your dentist will give the patient instructions on oral hygiene and diet.

Of course. Dental implants provide artificial teeth that look natural and feel secure in the mouth. Also, dental implants can be used to attach partial or full dentures. Implants, however, are not an option for all patients. Because implants require surgery, patients must be healthy, have healthy gums, have adequate bone to support the implant, and be committed to meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits. If you are considering implants, an extensive evaluation by your dentist will help determine if you would be a good candidate.

What type of factors contribute to long-term success of dental implants?

Long-term success of dental implants depends on many factors. Primarily, success will depend on the quantity and quality of the bone. The better the bone and the more available it is, the greater the chance of there being long-term success. Secondly, the experience and ability of the dental surgeon will also be a factor. Similar to any surgical procedure, there is no substitute for the experience and individual talent of the dentist. Finally, the quality of the restoration placed on top of the implant will play a the largest role in long-term implant success. If the design of the implant, crowns or, over dentures are poorly constructed, and the factor of biting forces are not balanced, even the best-placed dental implant will have a compromised survival rate.

Surprisingly, no. Dental implants have been performed for thousands of years dating back to the time when there were Egyptian pharaohs. It has been discovered that Egyptian mummies were found with gold wire implants in the jawbones. Also, Pre-Columbian skeletal remains display dental implants made of semi-precious stones. Not long ago, a Roman soldier was dug up from the ground in Europe with an iron dental implant in his jawbone. There are even cases in the Middle East where implants made of ivory have been discovered in skeletons from the Middle Ages.

Modern Dental Implants began in the United States at the beginning of the 1900's; however, popularity really grew in the 1980’s with the increased success of the titanium cylinder. Since then, many brand name implants with minor variations have been approved to be used on patients.

Can any type of dentist restore the teeth on the top of dental implants?

A general dentist trained to restore implants, and a prosthodontist can also restore teeth. Sometimes the dentist who have been trained in both disciplines can perform the surgery and restoration, and sometimes it is  performed by two different clinicians.

What type of dentist can place a dental implant in my mouth?

A periodontist, an oral surgeon, or a general dentist specialize in placing dental implants. The periodontist and oral surgeon are teamed with a restorative dentist. They will place the implants and then the patient will then be seen by a restorative dentist for the completion of the crowns or overlying appliance. More than likely, there will be two dentists during the course of treatment. An implantologist is trained in both dental implant surgery and restoration of the dental prosthesis. An implantologist will do both the surgery and the restoration, and there will be only one dentist during the course of treatment.

Can you be either too young or too old for dental implants?

No. Any person at any age can have dental implants as long as there is enough bone available in which to place the implants.

Is dental implant surgery painful?

No. An effective local anesthetic is used during the surgery so that you do not have any discomfort during the placement of the implants. The mild discomfort you might experience after surgery can be controlled with medications.

How often will I need to have my dental implants checked?

The success of your implants will depend greatly on how well you maintain them. They will need to be professionally cleaned by a hygienist and examined by your implant dentist every three to four months. This hygienist should be trained in the specific procedure of maintaining dental implants. Also, brushing and flossing daily is absolutely necessary for long-term success.

What might be some of the factors that would prevent me from being an implant candidate?

There are some medical factors that might prevent someone from being a good candidate for dental implants. Some factors could be parathyroid disorders, uncontrollable diabetes, chemotherapy or radiation therapy,  blood disorders, bone marrow cancer, or rare bone disorders. Also, some physical factors may include insufficient or poor quality bone, low sinuses or nerve bundles.

When can I return to work after implant surgery?

You can go to work the next day, unless some particular surgical circumstance arises. Your implant dentist will discuss all postoperative instructions with you.

A natural tooth does more work than just enable a person to cut and grind food and look good. Teeth also are the reason the bones of the jaws exist. When there is a lose  of natural teeth, those bones lose their importance, and they begin to shrink. In dentistry, this act is known as resorption. For many patients, resorption is minimal, and sufficient bone remains to provide a good foundation for full or partial dentures. But for other patients, bone loss becomes more severe. When this occurs, a number of unpleasant side effects may occur:

Loose-fitting dentures make it difficult to bite or chew properly. As a result, the range of food a person can comfortably eat becomes limited. In some cases, this limitation is sufficient to impact nutrition. Loose-fitting dentures often rub the underlying gums, causing persistent soreness. Speech may be impaired. Appearance is negatively impacted. A gag reflex could be induced. Self-image is affected.

How will dental implants improve my well being?

Dental implants provide more a stable and natural feel those of loose dentures. Patients are able to eat virtually any type of food with much ease, comfort, and confidence. You will notice an improvement in your appearance, and possibly, in your speech. Many patients discover that dental implants enhance their self-image and self-confidence.

Does my age affect my ability to be treated with dental implants?

Age is rarely a consideration in dental implant treatment. In the cases of very young patients, implants are most often utilized to replace teeth lost due to trauma. In older patients, they are used to address teeth lost to disease.

In the past, bone resorption sometimes made it difficult to treat patients if tooth loss had occurred long before implant treatment was sought. Today, new technologies make it possible to rebuild the bone in your mouth so that patients that have been without teeth for decades may still be treatable.

Does treatment hurt? What can I expect after the operation?

Since the jaw bones have very few nerve endings, the placement of dental implants causes small surgical discomfort - in many cases equivalent to having a tooth pulled. Depending on the extensiveness of the procedure, many patients are able to work the next day. Post-operative discomfort is controlled with prescription pain medication. You will be placed on a soft diet and antibiotics for a few days and told to use an antiseptic mouth rinse several times daily. In most cases, you will be able to wear your existing or new temporary bridge or appliance immediately after surgery.

Sutures are removed approximately 10 days after the implants are placed. During the rest of the healing period, patients are seen regularly by the implant dentist to confirm the health of the your gums and implant sites.

Immediately after the treatment is complete, are the new artificial teeth permanently in place?

That all depends on the treatment option you and your dentist chose to take. Implants may be used with a variety of prosthetics, both fixed (non-removable), and removable. Your dentist will discuss the various options during the evaluation phase of your treatment. In many cases, lower dentures can be stabilized with no waiting period.

 Are partial dentures only for people who have lost all their natural teeth, or can it also be used to replace one or two teeth?

A. Implants may be used to replace any number of natural teeth. Among young adults, an implant is often used to replace a single tooth lost to an athletic, bicycling, or other accident, or to provide artificial teeth where natural teeth never developed. In older patients, implants are often used to replace an entire mouthful of teeth.

Do implants last for a long time?

Long-term studies have shown that implants can last up to 20 - 25 years. Your own personal success will be determined by factors related to your general health (including smoking, grinding, and oral hygiene). With an evaluation prior to treatment, the probability of success is high.

How long after I loose teeth can I be treated with dental implants?

Until fairly recently, it was sometimes difficult to treat patients who had lost their teeth many years before because so much bone had been resorbed by the time they sought treatment. Today, however, many materials have become available to build up or graft the natural ridge, creating sufficient bone for implant treatment. As a result, timing is no longer as critical as it once was. Implants can be placed into sockets where teeth have been extracted or lost in an accident, and we put implants into jaw bones that lost their natural teeth roots decades earlier. If a tooth, or teeth, have been missing for years, quite often a considerable amount of bone has been lost from disease. If the teeth happen to be in the front where aesthetics are extremely important, the ridge is built up with a graft first to restore it to its original shape and size. The implants are placed only after the ridge has healed. This procedure is done to give the most natural look possible.

Dental implants are screw-shaped or cylindrical root-form titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots. These are carefully placed in the jawbone and allowed to heal. During the healing phase, your bone is growing right up to the implant surface in order to lock it in place.

Shortly afterwards, a crown is made to fit on top of the implants similar to replace a missing tooth or teeth with a "brand-new" tooth. In many cases, you can be functioning on your "new" tooth in less than six weeks.!

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants look and feel just like your own teeth. Dental implants restore your confidence to talk, laugh, and chew with comfort and without worries.

Implant-supported crowns and bridges do not require neighboring teeth for support. When teeth are replaced using traditional tooth-supported bridges, the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are ground down so that the bridge can be cemented onto them (Click on figure at left). This tooth structure can never be replaced. Removable partial dentures use clasps and rests which have to be carved onto adjacent teeth. As the partial rocks back and forth, it can loosen the teeth it depends on for anchorage, causing them to be lost.

Implants preserve the integrity of facial structures. Implants prevent the hard and soft tissue collapse that can occur under conventional bridges and removable partial dentures. In patients who have lost all of their teeth, the lower one-third of the face is prone to collapse if implants are not placed to preserve the bone and the facial profile. Implants form a strong bond to the surrounding bone to provide support and anchorage for biting and chewing as well as stimulation for the bone to hold it in place.

Implants replace the entire tooth and the missing root so it is a free-standing restoration. This leaves more of your natural teeth untouched and free of restorations which saves your natural teeth.

Ease of cleansing. An implant supported crown can be cleaned like your other natural teeth, i.e. brushing and flossing. Cleaning under a bridge, however, requires the use of floss threaders for proper cleaning, while a partial must be taken out several times a day and scrubbed clean.

Better health and nutrition because you can eat what you want. Patients with dentures often find themselves unable to eat certain foods, such as fruits and vegetables, which can compromise their nutrition. With dental implants, it is much easier to bite into and chew your favorite foods.

Enjoy your food. Patients who wear an upper denture often have trouble really tasting food because the roof of the mouth is covered. With implant supported replacement teeth, it is not necessary to cover the roof of the mouth, so it is possible to enjoy the taste of all your favorite foods.

What if all my teeth are completely gone?

If you are a denture wearer and are having problems keeping your dentures in place or you cannot enjoy some of your favorite foods, implants can still make a big difference for you. Depending on your own individual case, anywhere from 2 to 8 implants can be placed in each jaw to anchor your dentures in place. No more wobbling or clicking; no more messy pastes and glues. You will be free to enjoy all of your favorite foods with confidence and comfort.

Do implants last long?

Published clinical research shows that implant supported restorations have been successful for over 30 years with success rates now reaching over 95%. These cases were carefully followed from the very beginning and are likely to remain successful for the lifetime of these patients.

By comparison, research shows that the typical tooth supported bridge lasts from 7-10 years and that partials and dentures last an average of only 5 years. In fact, insurance companies expect that bridges, partials, and dentures will last 5 years and will therefore pay for replacements every 5 years.

Dental implants are designed to be permanent but there are many factors that contribute to their longevity. Home care and regular visits to the dentist or specialist are probably the most critical aspects. However, smoking, grinding of the teeth, or too much pressure on the implants can alter their success.

In what situation, if any, could a dentist recommend a tooth-supported bridge?

Until recently, most dentists considered conventional bridges the treatment of choice for replacing missing or lost teeth. However, over the past decade there have been tremendous advancements in dental implant systems allowing more options for dentists.

Sometimes if the adjacent teeth have large restorations (fillings) that must be replaced or if the teeth are severely broken down, a tooth supported bridge may be the best option because those teeth could benefit from the protection of crowns attached to traditional bridges.

Most dentists, however, detest the idea of grinding down perfect teeth in order to place a traditional bridge and will therefore recommend dental implants in these cases.

Where do I begin with this process?

You start with making an appointment with your general dentist for a consultation.

Dental implants feel so natural and look so good, you just may forget you ever lost a tooth.

The dental implant exam and consultation will evaluate your mouth with a clinical and x-ray exam in order to determine your potential for implants. This exam is also the place where you are able to discuss what type of implant replacement will work best for your needs. The x-ray exam will be able to show how much bone is present in the locations where you will need implants placed. The x-ray won't be able to accurately show bone density.

Why do I have to wait three to six months before I can get the implants inserted?

A waiting period is mandatory due to the fact that the implants need to attach to the bone, a process called osseointegration. The waiting period's length of time varies with the quality of bone that is present where the implants were placed.

How long can my dental implants last?

Many long term research studies show that dental implants, which have been placed in good-quality bone, are able to last for a patient's lifetime; however, some implants may fail if the quality of the bone wasn't good, if the presence of too much bite stress occurred for too few implants or if implants weren't long enough for the demands of a given case.

How many dental implants do I have to get?

Each case varies regarding how many implants are needed for the demands of replacing the missing teeth. If the implant surgeon is limited to the length of implants that can be placed, more implants are necessary. The length of the implants is determined by how much bone you have present in your mouth. It is good advice to have enough implants built upon that if one implant fails, there are enough implants left which will prevent the failure of your whole implant reconstruction. "An implant failure should not mean a case failure".

If an implant or implants fail, can alternates be placed?

When implants fail, there will be some bone loss which accompanies the loss of the implant(s). If there is enough bone left, additional implants can be placed. However, there are cases where additional implants can't be done after previously placed implants have failed due to the fact that there is not enough bone present anywhere which would allow for more implants.

Will I experience any pain after the anesthetic wears off?

Patients have a feeling scale that ranges from discomfort to pain. The variation depends on the number of implants placed, their location, as well as a patient's tolerance for pain.

Is there any pain when implants are surgically inserted?

There should not be any pain when the implants are placed. In most cases, a local anesthetic, such as Novocain, is all that is necessary.

Can I wear full or partial dentures after implant surgery if I wore them beforehand?

Post-surgical swelling may interfere with wearing a full or partial denture immediately after the surgery or until after the swelling has gone done, but each case varies and therefore, this dilemma should be discussed with your implant surgeon.

Once I have implants placed, do I have to clean around them like normal teeth?

Of course you do! If you don't clean the area around the implants, it's possible to get gum disease. Gum disease can lead to the failure of the implants if it is not treated before too much bone has been destroyed.

How do I clean around the implants?

The amount and type of cleaning varies depending on the type of implant reconstruction that you had. Most definitely, you need to clean daily around the implants. Brushing with a toothbrush, as well as flossing are important. There may be the need for a prescription mouth rinse (chlorhexidine) which can further help you keep your implants healthy. Electric toothbrushes can also be helpful for cleaning around implants. Other cleaning aids may be recommended where the specific needs of your case require them.

Do I still have to get a professional cleaning?

Yes you do. It's important to not only have a professional cleaning done around the implants, but you also should have periodic implant check-ups with your implant surgeon regarding the health of the implants.

In simple terms, dental implants are sophisticated screws made of Titanium, a medically pure metal. The screws are placed in the jaw bone and rest under the gum for a period of 3 - 6 months. During this time, implants fuse to the jawbone and become bone integrated. After the appropriate healing time, we uncover the implants and use them to replace one or more missing teeth by fabricating some sort of dental prosthesis. They allow you to function more normally than conventional dentures or bridges.

What is the history of implants?

Dental implants have been available over the past 50 years or so. However, there are significant differences, among the various types of implants that have been used to replace missing teeth. The differences are important since they are directly related to the implants success rates. The implants currently in use today, OSSEO INTEGRATED IMPLANTS, were originally developed in Sweden by Dr. P.I. Branemark., a Swedish Orthopedist approximately 25-30 years ago. They have been used in the U.S. for the past 12 years.

What are in dental implants?

Implants are made of commercially and medically pure Titanium. This is the same metal that has been successfully used in hip implants for many years. It is inert and is not known to cause any type of rejection phenomenon.

Is there a difference among the different implant manufacturers in the US?

All implants used in America are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Originally, the only system available was the Noblepharma™ Branemark implant. But today, there are numerous implant companies. All of these companies are approved by the FDA and are required to meet very stringent requirements. Your dental team will choose the system that is suitable for you and the one that allows them to accomplish your mutual restorative goal.

What types of restorations can be placed on implants?  

The answer to this question depends upon your treatment objectives. This can vary from simple removable prostheses, using the implants for retention , to totally implant supported porcelain fused to metal crowns and bridges. Implant bridges can be either removable or fixed (not removable) depending upon the number of implants. We are now finally able to replace single or multiple missing teeth returning the dentition to a biologically healthy and esthetically pleasing state.

Is the surgery complicated?

Implant surgery is done in two stages. The first stage involves the placement of the implants into the available jaw bone. This is most commonly done with just local anesthesia. It is complicated only in the sense that the surgery requires great precision. Every attempt is made to insure success. The room is set up similar to an operating room, the equipment thoroughly sterilized and the most modern techniques utilized. Stage two involves the uncovering of the implants after they have integrated ( fused ). This can be accomplished with minor gum surgery or with a dental laser and is a relatively minor procedure. In both instances, minimal postoperative discomfort is noticed. You will be given the appropriated antibiotics and analgesics just as a precaution. Very definitive postoperative instruction will be given to you at the time of surgery.

Can implants be rejected?

No! They are made of an inert metal which has no history of rejection by the body. They are not a living organ such as the lung or liver and therefore there is no rejection phenomenon. If failure should occur, and this is only a remote possibility, it is mechanical in nature and not due to rejection by the body. By the way, depending on the source you read, implants are anywhere from 85-95 percent successful depending upon certain factors such as implant location, amount and quality of bone etc. These factors will be evaluated before we place your implants. If you have any questions regarding this or any other aspect of the implant process, ask your dentist.

If I lose a lot of teeth, do they each have to be replaced with a separate implant?

No. Although implants simulate the roots of teeth, biomechanically one implant can be used to replace one or more teeth. This will depend upon the mechanical requirements of your chosen prosthesis. At your consultation your dentist will discuss the various treatment alternatives and the type and number of implants that are needed in order to fulfill our treatment objectives.

What about complications and infections?

Every attempt is made to maintain a totally sterile field during the surgery. This tends to minimize any potential for postoperative infection. Your dentist will prescribe you the appropriate antibiotics as a precautionary measure. Once the implants have been engaged in your prosthesis, it is imperative for you to maintain scrupulous oral hygiene. Success often depends on your cooperation and homecare efforts.

How long is the entire implant process?

Dental implants take approximately 3-4 months in the lower jaw and 6 months in the upper to integrate. Once integrated, it takes several visits to several months to complete the restoration depending upon the complexity.

Will I be able to chew and function normally?

Yes. Once your implants have integrated, you will be able to function normally without any unusual sensations. Your chewing ability will really depend upon the type of prosthesis you have chosen.

What is the difference between implants and transplants?

Transplants are organic because they are transplanted from one body to another. Implants are inorganic material and the body is not aware of their presence and usually does not reject them.

What is the cost?

The cost of implant dentistry is based upon a combination of the surgical phase and the prosthetic phase. Your total treatment fee will depend upon the number of implants and the complexity of your final restoration.

Will everyone know I have Dental Implants?

Since the prosthesis covers the implant posts, no one will know, unless you tell them, however, dental implant patients usually want the "world to know" how their implants have changed their lives.

Will implants hurt after the healing is over?

You will not be aware of them at anytime. Implants are totally and completely comfortable.  

A dental implant is an advanced medical technology for the treatment of tooth loss. A titanium implant is implanted in the toothless area of the jawbone. The jawbone fuses with the titanium surface providing a strong anchorage for the implant. The implant functions as a support for the dental prosthesis constructed over it.

What are the oral benefits of dental implant?

* It prevents further resorption of the jawbone following tooth loss.

* It can treat cases untreatable with conventional methods of dental bridges and dentures.

* It avoids cutting down and overloading the natural teeth occurring with conventional means of replacing tooth loss.

* It can perfectly restore chewing function.

* It helps restore a patient’s self-esteem and confidence since it gives the feeling of regaining the real teeth.

* It functions better than conventional dental bridges and dentures.

* It gives superior aesthetic results. Am I a suitable candidate for dental implant?

You will be a suitable candidate for dental implant if you fulfill the following requirements:

* Your jaw must have enough bone to support the implant.

(If not, bone grafting may be required)

* There must be enough space to accommodate the prosthesis over the implant.

* You must be medically fit to undergo ordinary surgery.

* You must understand what the treatment can offer.

* You must realize to what extend the treatment can meet your expectations

 Should I consider getting a dental implant?

* You do not want to have your natural teeth cut down which is required in making your conventional dental bridge.

* You cannot tolerate a denture in your mouth.

* You cannot wear or chew well with your denture.

* You do not want to damage your remaining teeth from wearing a partial denture.

* You have lost your back teeth making it possible to construct a conventional dental bridge.

* You want the most effective way of restoring your chewing function.

* You have a long toothless span, which is not indicated for making a conventional dental bridge.

* You want superior aesthetic results with your tooth replacements.

 What are the procedures involved in getting a dental implant?

The surgery can start after thorough diagnosis and treatment planning. A recipient site of the same size and shape as the implant is created in the jawbone with drilling instruments. The implant is inserted into the site prepared. Usually, a healing period of 3 to 6 months is required for the jawbone to fuse with the implant. The jawbone has different densities in different areas – the denser the bone, the shorter the healing period. After this healing period, the prosthesis is constructed over the implant and the treatment is completed. Usually, a straightforward implant treatment takes about 4 to 7 months to complete. Longer periods are required for complex situation such as cases requiring bone grafting.

How is the operation arranged?

The operation will be performed under aseptic condition usually in a clinic with the proper facilities and conditions for dental implant surgery.

Local anesthesia is given for pain control during the operation. Intravenous can be given if necessary. Pain, which may occur after the operation, can be effectively controlled with dental medications. The prosthetic part of the implant treatment does not require anesthesia.

How successful is the treatment?

Modern dental implant treatment is highly successful, as a general guideline, the five-year success rate of dental implant is over 95% with the lower jaw (mandible) and about 90% with upper jaw (maxilla). The success rates may slowly decrease as the implant stays longer in function. In difficult cases, the success rates are expected to be lower. Despite the overall high success rates with dental implant treatment, there is still the possibility of failure, which can be contributed by various factors and conditions, such as poor healing power, poor bone quality, smoking and diabetes.

How long can a dental implant last?

The service life of an dental implant can be affected by many factors:

High standards of treatment, meticulous daily cleaning by the patient, regular professional maintenance, abstinence from smoking and avoidance of overloading (like chewing bones, shells, hard nuts and candies), can contribute to the durability of the oral implant. In view of the high success of modern dental implant treatment; an dental implant can be considered a long lasting medical implant that does not need to be changed.

How safe is the operation?

Whereas no medical treatment can be guaranteed 100 percent without risks and failures, implant operation can be considered very safe. The prosthetic phase of treatment is basically non-invasive and non –invasive and non-surgical in nature.

Implants are pricey, but are a worthy investment in the long run. The cost will be determined after a completed examination and records are completed. In a survey 350 patients many concluded that implants were worth the investment and even worth having done again.

A dental implant is a man-made replacement for natural teeth which allows the person to return to fixed teeth. Implants are not transplants, which is taken from another person. There are several categories of dental implants, which will be selected by the doctor depending on your specific needs and general dental condition. A x-ray is required to evaluate the amount of bone remaining, models of your mouth to determine space available and a thorough examination to decide which type of implant can help you the most.

IS THERE ANY DISCOMFORT INVOLVED IN THE TREATMENT?

As with any surgery, discomfort is likely; however, anesthetic and patient sedation are used to eliminate any possible discomfort at the time of the procedure. The doctor will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur. Approximately 95 percent of patients reported discomfort of 0-2 on a scale of 0-10 the day after the implants were placed. Special care will be taken and stay in contact after the surgery to be sure that you remain comfortable.

HOW MUCH WILL MY INSURANCE PAY?

Although portions of the procedures involved are likely to be covered, the implant itself is not a covered benefit of many insurance contracts. Our office, however, is persistent in doing the best we possibly can in obtaining benefits for out patients from their medical and dental insurance.

IS THERE A CHANCE IT COULD BE REJECTED?

The body does not reject a dental implant, as it might a soft tissue transplant, such as a lung, heart or kidney. This does not exactly mean an implant cannot fail, but it would be because of other factors, such as misalignment, improper force on the implant or other conditions or existing diseases of the patient. Dental implants are made of a special material, titanium, that is totally bio compatible and integrates with the surrounding bone and becomes part of the body. Titanium is being used more and more in the medical field to replace body parts.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

A complete treatment can take from 4 to 9 months and in some cases, longer. It should be understood by the patient that this procedure is advanced and may be a longer process than usual to assure it as a success. Even though, we provide patients with temporary teeth during this time frame. There is no time where you are without teeth unless you select to do so.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I DON'T GET TREATMENT?

When you lose teeth, you gradually lose the bone that supported them. As this bone disappears, problems with other teeth nearby and a lack of support for dentures, partials and bridges increase. These could include mobility, pain, lack of retention for prosthetics, sharp, painful ridges, sore spots and mobile gum tissue. The tongue enlarges to accommodate spaces of missing teeth. With tooth loss, a five-fold decrease in function occurs and the diet shifts to softer foods. Furthermore, when bone is lost, numbness to the lower lip or even the possibility of fracture of the jaw increases. Since the bone deteriorates, it will spread and deteriorate around healthy teeth, which ultimately causes the loss of those teeth. Most people are aware of the "domino effect". Here's an easy way to explain what happens: Picture a brick wall; take a brick right out of the middle of the wall. What happens? Eventually, the brick above starts to fall in from lack of support, the bricks to the side start shifting toward each other and those eventually fall out; then the process starts all over for those bricks nearest them. It's a similar process in the mouth. In addition, this progression will affect the ability to provide the same treatment in the later stages of bone loss than if treatment had been started earlier in the process. It's much better to replace a tooth BEFORE all of the side effects kick in. By waiting, you risk the possibility of not being able to provide the same, simple type of treatment that would have been possible earlier.

HOW LONG SHOULD I BE AWAY FROM WORK?

Commonly, we recommend no strenuous exercise should be done the day of and the following day after surgery. You can expect your mouth to be slightly swollen. The amount of time away from work is an individual decision.

HOW CAN I CHOOSE A DENTIST?

Many types of dentists may be qualified to diagnose implant treatment, such as an oral surgeon, periodontist or general dentist; however, keep in mind that not all dentists have adequate training and education in this special growing field and may possibly (but not intentionally) mis-diagnose or discourage the option of implants due to lack of knowledge of the procedure. A way to ensure that the dentist you choose is properly trained to diagnose and place implants is to contact the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. There are also other implant based organizations, such as the International Congress of Implantology (ICOI), that could also help in choosing a dentist, these are just a couple.

AM I CANDIDATE FOR AN IMPLANT?

Anyone who has missing teeth is a candidate for dental implants. If the majority of your teeth are missing, implants could be placed to anchor a loose denture. If just one or a few teeth are missing, implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those few teeth and function normally without losing more bone and being a victim of decay. Generally, if there is already bone less present, bone can be regenerated  or bone expansion can be used to create a more ideal location for the implant(s). In the end, a meeting with a knowledgeable dentist can help determine what you need.