Introduction to Implant Dentistry

Dental Implants
A flourishing and certainly a favorite procedure for Dr. Pollock is the placement of dental implants. They are becoming the gold standard of replacing missing teeth. One key advantage dental implants offer that no other restorative option gives is preservation of the facial bones. The bones hold the tooth roots in place. When teeth are missing, the bone that supports the tooth goes away, causing premature aging of the face and loss of function. Dental implants preserve the bone by replicating the tooth root.

For an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, the procedures to rebuild facial bones are commonplace. Dr. Pollock uses advanced reconstructive techniques such as bone and soft tissue grafting to rebuild lost natural form when necessary, allowing precise placement and enhancing the esthetic outcome. Because Dr. Pollock is trained in IV anesthesia, the surgical experience is stress and pain free.

Another huge advantage dental implants have is that they can last a lifetime. Conventional tooth replacement such as bridges can fail because of the decay that occurs where the crown meets the tooth. Dental implants do not decay and have a 98 percent success rate in non-smoking patients.

How does a dental implant work?
The first step in the treatment sequence is careful planning. Your doctor will take x-rays and make models of your mouth in order to determine the best plan of treatment for your situation.

The next step is placing the implant in the jaw using a gentle surgical procedure. Many patients report having a dental implant placed is less traumatic than having a tooth removed. Healthy bone forms a strong bond to the implant after just 6-12 weeks, providing a solid foundation for attaching a replacement tooth (called a crown). Because dental implants usually are not covered by gum during this step, the gum tissue and bone reshape and heal around the implant at the same time.

After the bone has bonded with the implant, a process termed "osseointegration", the next step is to create the crown. In a few appointments, your dentist will attach a post (called an abutment) to the implant, take impressions of your teeth, and check for proper fit and color of the crown.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Thanks to recent advancements in implant techniques, most people with missing teeth qualify as candidates for implant treatment. Some of the determining factors are:
– A sufficient amount of good quality bone
– Good oral hygiene
– Good general health
Before an implant is placed, your gums and existing teeth need to be healthy. Conscientious oral hygiene and regular check-ups with your dentist are important for long-term success.

Even if you've lost a significant amount of bone in your jaws, you may still qualify as a candidate for dental implants. Simple and predictable techniques are now available to help bone regrow in your jaws before implants are placed. Speak with your dentist to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.

What is the cost of implant treatment?
Since each patient has different needs and priorities, dental treatments and the corresponding costs differ as well. You should receive a fee estimate when your dentist explains the dental implant treatment that is right for you.
Some of the factors that influence cost are:
– The number of implants needed
– The type of replacement teeth desired
– Additional procedures that may be necessary to enhance the
– look and feel of your smile.

It is important to consider long-term versus short-term cost when making a decision about tooth replacement. Dental implant treatment may be a larger initial investment, but it is frequently a more cost effective solution in the long term.

We are pleased to offer Capital One Healthcare Finance to our patients. Capital One Healthcare Finance is a convenient, no initial payment, low monthly payment plan for dental treatments of $1,000 to $25,000. Offering Capital One Healthcare Finance allows us to make the smile you've always wanted affordable.

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