- What are dental implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root which acts as an anchor for replacement teeth. Shaped like a screw, it is surgically placed into the jawbone in order to secure a replacement tooth or bridge in place. Implants are stable and permanent and are not reliant on neighboring teeth for support. They are an ideal tooth replacement procedure because they look and feel like natural teeth.
Implants are great for patients who are unable to wear dentures. Instead, the implant is placed directly into the jawbone to support permanently cemented bridges. Implants can be made from several different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials that are compatible with body tissue. When surgically anchored into the jawbone, the implant fuses with living bone in a process known as "osseointegration".
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- What is implant dentistry?
Implant Dentistry is the dental specialize part of dentistry that focuses on restorative procedures that replaces missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and perform like their own. Implant Dentistry involves the surgical placement of one or more artificial titanium metal tooth roots known as dental implants.
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- Am I candidate for dental implants?
Anyone in reasonable health and with adequate jaw bone is a candidate for dental implants. Implant patients can be in their early teens or be mature adults in their seventies and eighties.
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- Is the implant placement painful?
No, usually the patient is sedated and has little memory of the procedure. A local anesthetic is always used and surgery is never started until the patient is numb. All procedures are performed in our office.
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- How much pain will I feel after implant placement?
The discomfort you may feel is usually minor but we pre-assess you to anticipate your “worst case scenario” needs for medication, all of course on a case by case basis. We will prescribe, as needed medications to alleviate any potential pain or discomfort as well as swelling and infection. Your complete medical and dental histories along with the extent and location of your surgery are always considered in this type of decision.
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- How long does it take to place dental implants?
Usually 30-60 minutes, depending on the location and the number of implants and procedures. We use a team approach, to ensure an efficient, accurate and well executed experience. Our three very skilled and well trained staff members are always present in the surgical suite for your safety, comfort and security, Two surgical assistants, Ashlee and Jennifer, and our nurse Gayle.
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- What can I eat after having an implant placed?
We will outline a diet for the next few days including some soft foods. It is very rare that any of our patients are unable to sustain themselves. This has never been an issue. No one ever eats and damages the surgical site.
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- How long does it take to get my new teeth?
The entire process usually takes from 3 to 9 months, depending on your treatment plan. This will be discussed with you as there are many factors influencing the time line.
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- Do I have to do everything all at once; Can we do the work in stages?
No & Yes. We always sequence your surgical and dental care to fit your individual life style, financial concerns and medical issues. We will work very closely with your restorative dentist to make sure that you can continue to function with dignity during the periods of delay or stages. If you so choose to have your work done in one visit, there are many advantages that will be discussed at your first appointment.
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- How do I care for my implant teeth in the future?
Home care for your implants consists of brushing and flossing, just like before. Regular dental visits are required for long-term health and success.
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- How long Does an implant lasst?
If your body accepts the implant, it should last many, many years, perhaps a lifetime, if cared for and examined properly. Many implants have been in place for more than 40 years. Dr. Feldman has been placing implants for over 20 years (over 10,000) and has over 95% of those still functioning and healthy.
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- If my body rejects an implant, what happens?
The implant is removed and the site is usually grafted and allowed to heal. Another implant can usually be placed after healing.
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- Are dental implants covered by insurance?
Like most elective procedures, dental implants are not covered by most dental insurance plans. However, we offer payment plan options. Some insurance policies are starting to pay for implants. We will help you discover if yours has changed.
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- Who needs bone grafts for implant placement?
Any individual experiencing bone loss in the amount, caused by trauma, infection or periodontal disease will benefit from bone graft surgeries and procedures. Replacing missing bone is a popular method to fill gaps and spaces between teeth that have eroded or fallen out. Grafting techniques help prevent additional bone loss and to help individuals recover chewing function as well as enhance speech.
In many cases, bone grafts are necessary before dental implants or implantation restoration techniques are performed. Without adequate bone structure and support, dental implants will most likely fail.
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- How much does a dental implant cost?
We are very competitive in our implant services pricing. There are a variety of financial plans including interest free financing for up to 2 years available to those patients who qualify. We make every effort to be fair and generous on a case by case basis.
Unfortunately, it’s hard to provide an “average” fee for dental implants. Fees are based on type and number of implants required. Costs are also related to the extent of related procedures which are often necessary to properly prepare the site of a missing tooth to receive an implant. These procedures may be required regenerating bone and gum tissue. The condition of the jaw bone, medical issues such as Diabetes and smoking, are all elements which also must be factored into the establishment a fair fee. Please call to find out more: 941-485-9633
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- What is the Costy & Benefit comparison of implants verses dental alternatives?
When compared to routine dental procedures like fillings, cleanings, extractions and root canals, dental implants might be considered expensive. However, unlike conventional methods of tooth replacement, a successful dental implant can last a lifetime.
Multiple published studies have shown that virtually every other form of tooth repair has a finite life, and requires replacement on a regular basis. For instance, caps or crowns and bridges represent short term solutions to tooth loss, and may need to be replaced every 5-7 years. Every time a crown is replaced it causes additional loss of tooth and gum tissue, a potential need for root canal treatment and / or periodontal therapy.
Furthermore, each time a crown is replaced, the current fee is considerably greater than the original fee, simply due to inflation. Consider the initial cost of a dental implant versus the continuing costs of replacing repair existing restorations. Many studies have shown that the success rate of implants and implant supported crowns and bridges is around 95% or better. Every other form of tooth repair, or medical procedure, pales by comparison.
All things considered, dental implant treatment represents not only the most technologically advanced, but the most cost effective form of tooth replacement. Coupled with the level of care, skill and judgment exercised by a well trained implant surgeon, one would be hard pressed to find a more affordable option. Dental implants can provide a permanent solution to your dental problems, while avoiding the long term inconvenience and escalating costs associated with less permanent options for tooth replacement.
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