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What is a dental implant? |
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A dental implant is a titanium screw that takes the place of your natural tooth roots. Once it heals in the bone, it acts as an anchor for replacement teeth. |
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Are there different kinds of implants? |
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There are many different brands of implants and they come in many various shapes and sizes. The type and size are determined by the patient’s present condition and the desired type of prosthesis. |
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How do my implants work? |
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The implant is essentially a titanium screw that is placed completely into a predrilled hole in the bone. During the next three to six months, the bone heals around the implant and holds it in place. During this time you can not see the implant because it is under the gums. When the implant is secure, it can then be exposed and used as a platform to secure a crown /
bridge or support a denture. |
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How long will my implants last? |
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The longevity of the implant and the restoration is greatly dependant on the patient’s ability to keep it clean. Although implants can not decay, they can fail due to gum infections. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, the implants can last more than 20 years. |
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What are the benefits of implants over other treatment options? |
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Implants are used to replace missing teeth. The other options for tooth replacement include fixed bridges and dentures. Fixed bridges require adjacent teeth on either side for support. If the supporting teeth get damaged, the entire bridge needs to be removed. Implants are independent of the other remaining teeth. Dentures are removable and are inherently unstable. This results in discomfort due to food getting under them and social embarrassment due to loose teeth. Furthermore, dentures have very poor chewing efficiency and contribute to further bone loss because they compress the blood supply to the remaining bone. Implants are permanently attached to bone. This results in rigid support of the replacement teeth which increases chewing efficiency and social confidence. |
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How do I know if implants are right for me? |
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Implants are indicated for people of all ages who are reasonably healthy and who desire optimum oral health. If you have systemic conditions or diseases that compromise your health, your dentist will be able to determine if you are still a candidate for implants after reviewing your medical and dental history. |
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How long does it take? |
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It takes three to six months for implants to integrate into your bone. The replacement teeth can usually be fabricated within a month of complete integration. The biggest factor in determining the length of time required for treatment is the patients pre-existing condition(s). Your dentist can be more specific after your medical and dental condition has been determined. |
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How much does an implant cost? |
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The placement of an implant into a person’s jaw costs $1100.00. This does not include the replacement tooth. To place a single tooth on the implant costs an additional $900.00 - approximately the cost of a fixed bridge. Implant supported dentures require a minimum of two implants ($2200.00) and a choice of superstructures. The superstructures start at $300.00. These fees do not include the cost of new dentures if your current set is either ill fitting or worn out. If you had no teeth and wanted to replace a set of dentures with individual fixed teeth, the cost would be equivalent of purchasing a new car. |
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