Questions About  Dental Implants

In Addison, Frisco, Dallas, McKinney and Plano, Texas

Since there are both physical and emotional problems associated with dentures, dental implants are a much more preferred option to replace missing teeth. Dentures are painful, poor in appearance, and the denture adhesive leaves a bad taste in your mouth. Yet the emotional problems can be even more crippling. The loss of self-esteem, the insecurity with friends and business associates, and the decrease in overall activity can make life seem hopelessly out of focus.

The natural look, feel, and function of implanted teeth have given thousands of former denture wearers and sufferers of serious tooth loss a new perspective and boost self confidence. They can do the same for you.

What are dental implants?

When permanent teeth are lost, regardless of the reason or number of teeth, dental implants can offer a “new lease on life”. They are preferred to other methods because they are anchored in the bone, are secure and more esthetic. After nearly 35 years of use, they have a 90-96% proven track record of success in appropriately selected cases.

An implant is made of special surgical grade titanium, manufactured to precise specifications and under strictly controlled sterile conditions. Once inserted surgically into the jawbone beneath the gum surface they fuse with the surrounding bone over the next three or four months. Once the bone bonds to the implant it is then ready to provide a secure foundation onto which a new tooth or teeth can be attached. The number of teeth being replaced will determine the total number of implants and the best kind of restoration for you. Implants can replace a single tooth or a full set of teeth.

Since implanted teeth are fixed in the mouth rather than removable like dentures, they enable the wearer to return to the satisfaction of eating and smiling associated with natural teeth. If you have been suffering with ill fitting full or partial dentures, are missing teeth or need to have a tooth extracted, do not hesitate to call and schedule an evaluation appointment to see if dental implants are right for you.

What are the advantages of implants?

Implants provide a solid foundation of support in the mouth for permanent, non-removable teeth and also do the following:

• Improve your appearance
• Add comfort
• Boost self-confidence
• Allow you to speak with greater clarity
• Enable you to more fully participate in physical activities

Dental implants are stronger and more durable than their restorative counterparts (bridges and dentures). Implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. Additionally, implants may be used in conjunction with other restorative procedures for maximum effectiveness.

For example, an implant can serve as an anchor for a dental bridge or as a replacement for missing back teeth needed for a bridge. Implants can also be used with dentures to increase stability and reduce gum tissue irritation.

Procedural advancements, including the development of narrower “mini” implants, mean that more people than ever before are finding themselves candidates for implantation. However, candidacy for implantation still varies, meaning that your Plano implant dentist may determine that you should opt for an alternative restoration

Is implant dentistry covered by insurance?

Today, many insurance companies are covering dental implants as well as the replacement tooth or teeth that they secure. Our insurance specialists can help determine if you have coverage and if so, how much

How long does treatment take?

Treatment can take from six weeks to six months, or in some cases as much as 18 months to complete, depending on your individual needs and general dental health. But at no time are you without teeth. We provide all patients with temporary teeth for the duration of the treatment. Treatment does involve surgery that is performed right in our office.

Does the implant process hurt?

Anesthetics and sedation are used to alleviate any discomfort during surgery. Postoperative discomfort is similar to the experience after tooth extractions. Medication is provided to control soreness.

Is there a chance of rejection?

Dental implants are made of a metal that is biocompatible with the body so there is no question of rejection. There are some diseases, however, that can affect the healing and long-term success of implants.

Are implants right for me?

The odds are favorable that you are a candidate for implant dentistry whether you are missing one, a few, or all of your teeth and whether you are a teenager or adult. Only a competent, trained dental practitioner can determine if implants are right for you.

If you have any questions about dental implants, please contact our Plano, Texas office. Dr. Avant and Dr. Ragnell will be happy to answer any questions you have.