Dental implant chart

Why Dental Implants?

Dental implants are metal cylinders made of titanium surgically placed in the jawbone where teeth are missing. Implants replace the roots of missing teeth and support single crowns, large bridges, and dentures. State-of-the-art technology makes it possible for these implant-supported replacement teeth to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

There are many types of dental implants and many ways to use dental implants to achieve your goals of a pleasing smile and good chewing function. Visit Issaqueena Prosthodontics to find out how dental implants can improve your life and if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

There are a variety of circumstances that may lead to missing teeth and the need for dental implants. For example:

  • If diagnosed and treated early, most cavities and decayed teeth can be treated simply with a filling, but in some cases the decay is so extensive the tooth cannot be restored and must be extracted.
  • Patients with a cleft lip often experience a missing tooth or teeth in a position corresponding to the cleft.
  • The forces generated by a patient grinding his/her teeth may be great enough to severely fracture a tooth leading to its extraction.
  • Ill-fitting and loose dentures

Frequently asked questions about dental implants

What are dental implants?

A dental implant by itself is not a tooth! A dental implant is a prosthesis used to replace missing teeth. Essentially, it is a small titanium post/fixture that is inserted into the jawbone, on top of which a single crown (cap), a fixed bridge, a partial denture, or full denture can be attached. Once the implant integrates to your bone, a structure called an abutment is connected to the implant and then the artificial tooth/teeth are attached. Therefore, there are 3 parts to an “implant tooth”: the dental implant itself, the abutment, and the artificial tooth.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Almost anyone who is missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth are candidates for dental implants. Talk to Dr. Horton and his team for your specific needs.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Most Humans are “blessed” with 2 sets of teeth (baby/primary teeth and adult/permanent teeth). When a single permanent tooth or multiple teeth are lost due to dental decay or gum disease, dental implants can now replace them as the 3rd set of fixed teeth! Dental implants can last a lifetime and can improve your appearance, your confidence, and your ability to eat the foods you like, and participate in an active lifestyle, without worrying about your teeth. Dental implants are made of titanium and can never get dental decay!

What are the disadvantages of dental implants?

Like any minor oral surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, inflammation, and discomfort, but your Dr. Horton and his team will discuss how these can be managed for your specific situation. If there is no available bone to place the implant, then bone and gum grafting procedures may be required, which can increase the cost of your treatment. However, the upfront investment can pay off in the long term and will be discussed prior to starting treatment.

How much do implants cost and does insurance cover the cost?

In general, the cost of replacing a single tooth with a dental implant is almost the same as replacing it with a regular fixed bridge. Dental implant treatment may qualify for some insurance coverage, but situations vary. The cost will vary by patient needs, bone quantity, and region. We will make an assessment based on your unique needs.

What is the success rate of dental implants?

It varies from individual to individual and with health and habits. For a healthy individual with good oral hygiene and good health, dental implants are predictably successful with reported success rates above 90-95 percent.

Do dental implants last?

Unlike natural teeth, dental implants are not susceptible to dental disease such as decay; however, the health of the gums is vital to maintaining lasting implant success. Conscientious home care by the patient and regular professional cleanings and check-ups are essential elements for dental implant sustainability. Each patient is different, and success relies upon diagnosis and planning, medical history, and a variety of other factors.

What is All-on-4®?

All-on-4® is a trademarked treatment procedure that essentially involves replacement of all missing teeth in one jaw by using only 4 implants. This procedure is especially beneficial in patients who have lost a lot of bone in the back areas of the mouth.

Can dentures be made into implants?

Dentures cannot be “made into implants”. Implants are metal screws placed into the jawbone to help anchor and support artificial teeth (dentures). It may be possible to have implants placed beneath existing dentures to aid in the stabilization and support for those dentures. This could only be done if the current dentures were otherwise in excellent condition. You should consult with your prosthodontist to have your existing dentures carefully examined.

Are dental implants removable like dentures or do they stay in your mouth?

No, dental implants are fixed solidly in the bone and allow teeth to be replaced in a manner that is closest to natural teeth.

How do dental implants help if I have full dentures or partial dentures?

Actually implants are most popularly used in patients who wear full dentures or partial dentures. Dental implants can be used to provide retention and support for a removable implant overdenture, which basically snaps on the implants! Therefore the partial or full denture does not move and reduces the dependency on denture adhesives/denture glue. Or, dental implants can be used for a fixed denture, where a patient’s dentures are fixed/bolted to the implants through titanium components. Only the dentist can remove this from the mouth.