What are dental implants?
How much do dental implants cost?
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Am I too old for dental implants?
How successful are dental implants?
How long does dental implant treatment take?
Does it hurt?
How do I maintain my implant?
How do I get started?
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium cylinders inserted into the jaw to support artificial teeth. Support can range from a single tooth to a multi-tooth bridge and even a full denture. Dental implants are stronger than natural teeth in most cases, and look, feel, and function as your natural teeth.
Back to Top How much do dental implants cost?
The overall cost of implant therapy depends on the number of implants placed and the type of restoration placed on the implants. The average cost of a single implant in our office is $1400. This usually covers the implant procedure, follow-up visits, and all post-operative radiographs (x-rays).
Other factors that may add to the cost of an implant procedure are the need for bone and/or soft tissue augmentation. All costs involved will be discussed at the time of consultation.
Keep in mind that the implant(s) will need to be restored by your restorative dentist. To figure out the complete cost of treatment, you will need to find out the cost of the restoration by your dentist. If you do not have a regular dentist, Dr. Aufderheide will be able to refer you to a high quality dentist in your area to meet your needs.
Generally, the majority of dental and medical insurances do not cover dental implants. However, many will cover a portion of the restoration on the implant. One has to understand that most insurance companies do not necessarily look out for the patient’s best interest, but would rather pay to restore the patient’s health in an “acceptable manner”. This usually does not cover state-of-the-art dentistry or medicine.
A survey of 350 dental implant patients, after completion of treatment, indicated that it was, not only worth it, but they would do it again.
Back to Top
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
If you are in reasonable health and want to replace missing teeth, you are a candidate. The only major limiting factor to dental implant placement is the quantity and quality of bone. There must be enough bone to anchor the implant. If there is not enough bone to support an implant, an option is to graft bone to build up the area. Bone augmentation options can be discussed at the initial consultation. Certain chronic diseases and heavy smoking may contraindicate implant treatment. After careful evaluation of the bone with x-rays, a clinical exam, and a review of your medical history, Dr. Aufderheide will inform you as to any conditions that may affect your treatment.
Back to Top
Am I too old for dental implants?
In a word, no, health not age is the determining factor in qualifying a candidate. Many of our patients are in their seventies and eighties. These are patients who have decided on a better quality of life by enjoying their teeth and food again.
Back to Top
How successful are dental implants?
Modern dental implant techniques have been used since the 1970’s and improvements in procedures and materials have given implants a twenty (20) year success rate of 93% or better. Our practice success rate over the past eight (8) years has been over 96% for all implants placed.
Occasionally dental implants do fail. In most cases they can be replaced with an implant of a slightly larger size. We replace any failed implants at no additional cost.
Back to Top
How long does treatment take?
Generally, the treatment is carried out in three (3) stages over a period of four to six months.
- Stage 1: The implant fixture is inserted into the jawbone. A healing period of three to six months is allowed for the fixture to completely fuse or “integrate” with the jawbone before proceeding to stage 2.
- Stage 2: The top of the implant fixture is re-exposed and the abutment is fitted over the fixture. A period of two to three weeks is allowed for the gums to heal around the abutment before proceeding to stage 3.
- Stage 3: Your restorative dentist fabricates and fits the artificial tooth or denture over the abutment.
Back to Top
Does it hurt?
Most patients report that having an implant placed is easier than having a tooth extracted and many have stated it feels like having a filling placed. There is some vibration and a “drilling” sound, but overall it is a very comfortable procedure.
Mild discomfort for a few days following the implant placement is quite common, but usually nothing requiring more than ibuprofen or aspirin. About 30% of patients will have some mild swelling for 3 to 4 days. Most patients are fine to return to work the following day and strenuous exercise in two days.
Back to Top
How do I maintain my implant?
Just as for normal teeth, maintain good hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Although an implant can never decay, or need a root canal, it can get gum disease like natural teeth. If you brush, floss, and see your dentist for regular cleanings, your implant should last you a lifetime.
Back to Top
How do I get started?
If you are interested in possible implant therapy, or a second opinion, please call our office to schedule an evaluation. We will be happy to discuss all your treatment options, expectations, costs, and give you a straightforward evaluation.
After evaluation, our office will send you a comprehensive treatment report so you can determine for yourself if dental implants are right for you.
Back to Top
|
