Dental Implants

A dental implant replaces a lost tooth so it fills in any gaps between teeth. The implant is usually secured either into the jawbone or under the gums in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and strong like a normal tooth.

1. The dental implant is placed by inserting the implant into the jawbone at the site of the lost tooth. The dental implant is made from a biocompatible material which fuses with the jawbone to create a solid anchor with strength comparable to that of a natural tooth.
2. The dentist adds the abutment, a small metal (usually titanium) piece that connects to the head of the implant. The abutment holds the new dental crown, bridge, or denture to the implant.
3. The dental crown is placed. When the dental crown is created, your preferences regarding the choice of crown material, attachment technique and color matching are considered.

• People who take certain medications such as steroids or drugs that suppress the immune system may not be candidates for dental implants.
• Uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled gum disease are risk factors that can adversely affect the successful outcome of implants.
• People who grind or clench their teeth may put too much pressure on the implants and cause long-term damage.
• People who have lost bone and don’t have enough bone to support the implants.
• Dental implants are not suitable for children and young people under 18 because the underlying bones are still growing.

Most likely, yes. But it depends on how severe the damage to your dentures is. Sometimes, it’s better out with the old, in with the new.

There are several ways dentures can break: 1) the actual denture can break in half and 2) there can be a tooth that is broken, cracked, or has fallen out. You may be able to temporarily fix it with a superglue while waiting to get a skilled prosthodontist to permanently repair it.

The cost depends on a few different factors such as the health of your bone, the type of implant you are getting, and the number of implants you need. The cost for a dental implant to replace a single tooth including a crown is estimated to be in the range of $3,000 to $4,000. Multi-tooth dental implant bridges can cost around $8,000-$9000.

Placing a hybrid design to replace all upper or lower teeth on top of four implants (called “hybrid” or “all-on-4”) usually costs between $25,000 and $30,000. This includes all of the implants, placement, and the final appliance. That’s around $2,000 per missing tooth.

Mini dental implants are an option for people who are looking to replace lost teeth but don’t want or can’t have conventional restorations. Some don’t want invasive surgery or lack bone mass in their jaws to hold them.

Retaining a baby tooth as an adult is common. Sometimes it’s preferred to keep the tooth if it and the root are structurally, functionally, and aesthetically sound. Other times, modification is needed in adding a molded cap to the top of the baby tooth or extraction when there is overcrowding.

A dental implant takes a few months to complete, maybe as long as a year.

First, there is a consultation with the dentist to discuss the reason and goals, the basic process, and different options. The first appointment is the surgical appointment where small incisions are made in the gums and the dental implant is placed. Healing time is 4 – 6 months for the implant to fuse to the jawbone. The 2nd appointment is to attach the connector directly to the implant to which the tooth will be attached later. After about 3 weeks to heal, the restorative piece (the tooth) is placed on the connector.

• Get a comprehensive dental exam.
• The dentist may have prescribed antibiotics. If so, start those.
• Schedule downtime and prepare for your after-care.
• Stock up on soft foods and pain medication.
• Get 2 days off work and social activities
• Take a break from exercise.