|
FAQ's for Mini Implants and Traditional Implants
Q. What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that replaces the original root of a tooth that may have been damaged or lost to various dental conditions. Because the implant is surgically anchored to the jaw and the replacement tooth, crown, bridge or partial is permanently attached to the implant, the new tooth or bridge does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.
Q. How do I know if I am a good candidate for dental implants?
If you have a missing tooth or teeth, or if you are wearing removable dentures, you are probably a good candidate for dental implants. Uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking are complicating factors that may affect your result. However, we find that we are able to help almost everyone, even those who have been told in other offices that implants won’t work.
Q. How do dental implants work?
Dental Implants provide a new tooth root to which new teeth or dentures may be anchored. The implant becomes a permanent part of the jaw.
Q. Is it painful to have a dental implant procedure?
The amount of discomfort associated with dental implants depends on the type and number of implants being used. The condition of a patient’s bone and gum can affect the level of discomfort associated with dental implants as well. Most patients relate the discomfort associated with implants to that of having a tooth extracted. Keep in mind, however, that dental implant procedures are usually done with a local anesthesia
with or without sedation
and that medications to reduce soreness and discomfort are routinely prescribed for the comfort of our patients. Virtually all patients return to work the following day.
Q. How long does the dental implant process take?
The actual placement of an implant is relatively quick and easy. One implant can usually be placed in about an hour. Several implants might require two or three hours. The entire process to completion varies from one day to several months. The new mini- implant commonly used to secure dentures is placed and restored the same day.
IT can literally be said: “Have your implants placed today and eat tonight.” As our research clinical trails continue other new systems are coming to market that allow traditional implants to be placed and restored immediately. We are still approaching these with caution, but they are showing great promise. We now routinely place implants the same day we extract a tooth. This is not yet common place among implantologist, but we have found it to be extremely successful in our practice.
The advantage is a time saving of 4-6 month, the elimination of a surgical appointment, and a substantial reduction in cost. At this time the average implant procedure will require 4-6 months to completion in my office. The primary exceptions are mini- implants which require only one day and bone regeneration procedures which usually require 12-18 months.
Q. How reliable is a dental implant?
The success rate for dental implants depends on its purpose and location. The success rate is about 90 percent for those tooth implants placed in the front of the lower jaw and 85 percent for those tooth implants placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw. An implant that remains in (anchored) for 5 years or more is considered successful.
Q. My upper denture gags me. Can you help?
Absolutely! With a number of different types of implant systems the palate of your dentures can be removed and your gagging should stop.
Q. My lower denture won’t stay in and I’ve been told that I don’t have enough bone for implants. Can you help?
Yes! Some day I am sure I will come across a case that can’t be helped but that hasn’t happened yet. With today’s implant technology if you want it badly enough you can have it. Better yet, it is often quite simple.
Q. My upper denture fills in behind my upper lip and makes it seem too full. Can you help?
Certainly! By using one of the modern implant systems to anchor your dentures the anterior flange can be removed and your problem will be solved.
Q. Do dental implants require any special care?
Good dental hygiene and regularly scheduled dental appointments are all that is required. Daily brushing and flossing around the implant at least twice a day is necessary. Routine
professional
cleaning every three months is also advised. Dr. Brueggen will provide specific instructions for the care of your implants.
Q. What can I expect a dental implant to cost?
Every case is different and only after a thorough examination by an experienced dental implant specialist like Dr. Brueggen can actual cost be determined. Typically the short-term cost is greater than tooth replacement with older techniques such as fixed and removable bridges. However, because of fewer complications and greater durability the long-term cost is usually less.
Financing is available and can be arranged through one of our finance counselors. For your convenience we accept cash, checks, MasterCard,w Visa,w American Express,w and Discover.w In many cases financing can be arranged for up to 6 months with no interest.
Q. Will insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
Dental implants are usually not covered by insurance. We invite you to talk with one of our finance coordinators to review your policy and to determine the method of payment which best fits your specific needs. Call WAYNE BRUEGGEN, DDS, at 281- 879-1786 and ask to speak to one of our finance counselors.
|
