What are dental implants?

Implants are devices for fixing replacement teeth firmly to the oral tissues (bone and gum).

How old is dental Implantology?

Dental implantology goes back to the early Egyptians. Modern oral implantology dates back about 35 years. The newest bone integrated implants have a success rate of over 95%.

How do the dental profession and insurance companies regard implants?

Dental implants have achiever wide acceptance. People are seeking alternatives to removable teeth, missing teeth or drilling healthy teeth to replace lost teeth. The American Dental Association has endorsed dental implants. Long term studies have been conducted by numerous implant academies. Some states make it mandatory for patients' treatment plans to include the option of dental implants.

The A.D.A. now has an insurance code for dental implants and many insurance companies now reimburse for the implants and/or the related procedures and prosthesis. All of this means implants WORK.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Dental Implants can offer solutions for:

1. The patient that cannot speak or chew comfortably with conventional dentures.
2. The patient who is missing teeth and wants to avoid a removable partial denture.
3. The patient who has an exaggerated gag reflex and cannot maintain dentures of any kind in the mouth.
4. The patient who is wearing dentures and wants a fixed appliance to increase function/ cosmetics/ hygiene/ and psychological acceptance of replacement of missing teeth.
5. The patient who needs to increase their ability to chew better to aid in the digestive process

Are there patients who should not have dental implants?

Most patients who are healthy enough to undergo normal dental treatment can have dental implants. Age by itself is not a deterring factor. General health conditions and the structured of the mouth can preclude the use of implants therefore an individual evaluation is necessary

Will implants function as well as my original teeth?

Nothing is as good as the original. Implants are better then removable teeth or living with missing teeth. Most patients are not even aware that they are functioning with implants.

Is special care needed for implants?

Dental Implants and the prosthesis placed over them should be cared for as you would your natural teeth. Implants can fail for the same lack of proper oral hygiene that can destroy natural teeth. You need regular dental check-ups and cleanings on a basis that your dentist will determine (usually a minimum of every 6 months). You will be shown proper oral care that needs to be practiced and maintained.

How long will my implants last?

Implants have been in patients' mouths for more than 25 years. The question of longevity must be put in perspective for each patient. General health, oral health, and hygiene can all effect the long term prognosis. Your dentist will discuss your case and what can be expected.