Implantology

About Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant will bond with the bone over time and thus serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

Are dental implants successful?

With more than three decades of clinical experience and over five million patients treated, crowns and bridges supported by Nobel Biocare implants are highly successful. Nobel Biocare’s statistics confirm a success rate of nearly 95 percent for individual implants — even higher for the bridges they support. Dental implants placed in the first patient 40 years ago are still functioning today!

How much do implants cost?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants will depend on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of implants required to support your replacement teeth. To obtain a specific fee estimate it is necessary to have a doctor examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination, one of our dentists will recommend the treatment that is best for you.

Why choose Nobel Biocare implants?

Nobel Biocare has been the innovative leader in the dental industry for 40 years. Their solutions and products are at the very forefront, providing both dentist and patient with efficient treatment procedures, excellent function and high esthetic outcome.

Will dental implants work for me?

Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The main limitation is the amount of available bone. Your dintist is the best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.

Is old age a problem?

Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you’re healthy enough to have a toothe extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.

What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a bridge?

• • Improved appearance:

When you lose an entire tooth – crown and root – shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older. Dental implants can stop this process.

• • Maintained natural teeth:

With traditional practices, two teeth adjacent to a missing tooth must be ground down to anchor a bridge. Dental implants often eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth.

• • Permanent solution:

There are no loose parts to worry about. The implant is stable and comfortable. No adjustment is needed after installation. Normally, it will serve its owner for life.

How will dental implants affect my life?

Implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you are used to. But most importantly, dental implants often improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.

Will my new teeth look natural?

When dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations.

Will I be able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural teeth?

Yes. Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth.

How much time is required for an implant placement?

Traditionally, the procedure has been performed in two steps. The dentist began by installing the implant, which was left for from three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, the patient was given a temporaray prosthesis until the permanent crown could be put in place.

Today, there is an alternative to the two-step method that allows you to have the implant installed in one whole piece in one single session. This new method has simplified the procedure a lot, both for patients and dentists.

The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as the patient’s dental health, the number of teeth involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits to the dentist throughout the treatment period.

Is the treatment painful?

Just as with any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Anesthesia and patient sedation are used to eliminate any discomfort at the time of the procedure. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Medications will be prescribed to ease any discomfort that may occur.

How will I feel after the treatment?

It is normal to have some small bruises and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an ordinary painkiller. You should expect to be able to work the next day.

How will I care for my implants?

Your new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss as recommended by the dentist or dental hygienist. See the dentist every six months or as often you are advised to do so.

Click here to obtain more information from Nobel Biocare’s web site.