Plantation Dental Implants

Advantages of Dental Implants | Surgical Advances in Dental Implants | Tooth Replacement Options | Overview of Implant Placement | FAQ About Dental Implants

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Advantages of Dental Implants

1. Improved Comfort and Function: Dental implants are designed to feel and function like natural teeth, offering a stable and comfortable fit.

2. Preservation of Jawbone: Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants help preserve the jawbone by stimulating bone growth, which prevents bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss.

3. Long-lasting Solution: Implants can last a lifetime with proper care, unlike bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced or adjusted periodically.

4. No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Implants do not require alteration of adjacent teeth, preserving their natural structure.

5. Aesthetic and Functional Benefits: Implants provide a natural-looking smile and restore normal chewing and speaking functions.

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Tooth Replacement Options

You can select from a number of different options to replace your missing teeth – from temporary to long-lasting solutions.
A good candidate is anyone missing one or more teeth, or who is unhappy with their dentures. Age is not a factor. However, smoking, diseases such as diabetes, and radiation therapy to the area, have been shown to lower the success rate of implant placement. X-rays of your jaw will be taken to evaluate whether they will accommodate implants. Detailed x-rays may also be required to determine if other tests or procedures are needed to place implants properly.

Overview of Implant Placement

The Surgical Procedure

1. The Surgical Procedure: Implant placement takes about 30 to 60 minutes for a single implant and 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. The procedure involves local anesthesia, and in some cases, intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide.

2. Procedure Steps: The surgeon makes a small incision in the gum, creates space in the bone, and inserts the titanium implant. The implant may be left exposed or covered with gum tissue during the initial healing phase.

3. Healing and Restoration: Healing time varies, with follow-up visits to place the abutment and final crown. In some cases, immediate restoration is possible.

4. Number of Implants: The number of implants required depends on the number of missing teeth and the specific treatment plan. One implant is needed for each missing tooth, with options for multiple implants to support larger prostheses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants: 

1. What options are available for temporary teeth while my implants heal? There are several options to consider, and they can be customized based on your needs. If you’re looking for a temporary solution while your implants heal, you could opt for removable temporary teeth or a temporary bridge. If you’re missing all your teeth, we can modify your current denture or provide a new temporary one. For a non-removable option, some implants can be placed and “loaded” immediately, meaning a temporary or permanent tooth can be attached right after the implant is placed.

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2. What potential complications can arise after dental implant surgery? While most patients experience only mild or manageable discomfort after the procedure, it’s natural to be concerned about the possibility of pain. Pain relief and antibiotics will be prescribed to make your recovery easier. Occasionally, an infection may occur, requiring additional antibiotics. In rare cases, adjacent teeth may be injured during the implant procedure, or there could be temporary or permanent numbness in the lower lip or chin if the nerve is affected. We take great care to avoid this, but if it does happen, it usually resolves over time. However, in some cases, the sensation may remain altered. If you notice any numbness or unusual sensations after the surgery, it’s important to let us know immediately so we can guide your care appropriately.

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3. How long do dental implants typically last? Dental implants are a long-term solution, and studies show that implants have a high success rate over the years. For patients missing all of their teeth, long-term research (more than 30 years) shows a success rate of 80-90%. For those replacing one or a few teeth, the success rate is even higher, over 95%. However, if an implant doesn’t heal properly or becomes loose later on, it may need to be removed. Fortunately, after the site heals, we can usually place another implant.

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4. When are the replacement teeth attached to the dental implant? The replacement teeth are typically attached after the implant has integrated with your jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. Depending on your individual case, this can happen right away or after a period of healing. We’ll collaborate with your general dentist to ensure the best timing for attaching the replacement teeth, and your treatment plan will be tailored to your unique needs.

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5. What steps are involved in completing my dental implant treatment? Dental implant procedures are detailed and require precision. Your treatment begins with specialized impressions or digital scans to create a model of your mouth and implants. Next, the dentist makes “bite” records to assess how your upper and lower jaws meet. With this information, custom abutments (support posts) are created to connect your replacement teeth to your implants. The process may involve several appointments, with the number and duration depending on your specific case. For some patients, it may take as few as three appointments, while others may require up to five. These appointments allow time for lab work, adjustments, and creating a final restoration that feels natural and fits comfortably.

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6. How do I care for my new implant-supported teeth? Just like natural teeth, it’s important to clean your implant-supported restorations regularly using a toothbrush, floss, and any additional cleaning aids your dentist recommends. Regular dental check-ups will also help maintain your implants. Over time, parts like clips and screws may need maintenance or replacement, but with proper care, your new teeth should last for many years.

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7. Will one doctor handle the entire dental implant process? Typically, a dental surgeon (either a periodontist or oral surgeon) will place the implants, while your general dentist will handle the temporary and permanent replacement teeth. Both specialists work together throughout your treatment to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

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8. What is the cost of dental implant treatment? The cost of dental implants can vary, and we’ll provide you with an estimate after evaluating your specific needs. Initial charges may include diagnostic work, such as study models, X-rays, and a surgical template. Additional costs will cover the abutment, crown, or dentures that will be placed over the implant, as well as any temporary replacements. If multiple specialists are involved, there will be separate charges for their services. We’ll work with you to understand your insurance coverage or other payment options to help you manage your costs. Keep in mind that some insurance plans may have limited coverage for implant treatment.

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