Is everyone a candidate for implant treatment?
In general, anyone healthy enough to undergo routine tooth extraction is probably able to receive an implant. After careful evaluation of your health history your periodontist will alert you to any conditions that may affect your treatment. Remember, age is not a factor.

Are implants always successful?
Dental implants enjoy a high success rate. The success rate is over 90% when there is adequate, healthy bone present. Conditions which weaken your immune system or aggressively destroy bone will interfere with implant healing.

Can failed implants be replaced?
In the unlikely event an implant fails, it can easily be replaced by another.

How long does treatment take?
Depending of the type of implant and replacement teeth selected, the total time can be as little as a few weeks to six or more months. If bone grafting is necessary, further time may be needed. Your periodontist will discuss your options with you and advise you of the time requirements.

Will I need to be hospitalized?
Most implant procedures are performed in the dental office under local anesthesia (Novocaine).

Is there pain or discomfort?
You can expect minimal discomfort. Many patients report implant surgery much simpler than having teeth removed.

Will I be without replacement teeth at any time?
Usually every attempt is made to insert temporary teeth in on the day of surgery. In special situations you may be instructed not to wear replacement teeth in the surgical area. If required, this period is usually short, and temporary teeth are soon provided so you can quickly “get on” with your life.

How much does implant treatment cost?
The cost of implant treatment depends upon the number and type of implants placed and the type of replacement teeth needed. More complex treatment, such as bone grafting, will add to the cost. The improvement in your self-confidence, comfort, eating habits and appearance will make dental implant treatment one of the best investments you’ve ever made! Speak to you dentist or periodontist for a more detailed estmate.

What are the advantages of dental implants?
Implant treatment does not distrub the adjacent teeth. They are preserved intact.

A bridge necessitates “cutting down” adjacent teeth for crowns. Additionally, these teeth sometimes require root canal therapy.

Are implant-supported teeth as strong as my natural teeth?
Yes. Implants are actually stronger than natural teeth, and provide better chewing efficiency. As an added benefit, they cannot decay or develop root canal problems.

What are the risks of doing implants?
Any surgical procedure has some degree of risk. Most of the risks associated with dental implants can be avoided. Technological advances allow us to better understand your anatomy so that we ccan avoid complications. That is why it is sometimes necessary to obtain a “CAT Scan”. This is a computer generated image constructed from X-ray data, that shows cross sectional anatomy.