IMPLANTS
Dental implants have a proven longevity with success rates of above 95% over 10 years. It is the only treatment that replaces missing teeth permanently without compromising adjacent teeth. Implants benefit patients who have been unable or unwilling to wear removable or fixed bridges. They can be an excellent source of anchorage for patients with loose or ill-fitting dentures and are both functional and aesthetic.
Implants are more costly than other treatments and require surgery to place the implant. A bone graft or second surgery may be required if bone quantity or quality is insufficient at the implant site.
TREATMENT TIME
- surgical placement time per implant is approximately one hour depending on the complexity of the procedure
- healing time varies from a few weeks to several months while the implant permanently attaches to the bone
- after healing, another appointment may be necessary to uncover the implant and place a healing cap so your dentist can construct a final crown
PATIENT MAINTENANCE
- daily flossing and home care as instructed by your dentist
- professional cleanings four times per year
- exam by a restorative dentist at least once a year
Ensure you hygienist is aware of the presence of the implant and uses appropriate plastic instruments.
RESULTS OF TREATMENT
- best approximates having your own natural tooth (or teeth)
- provides tooth that is natural appearing and individually functioning
- avoids unnecessary tooth structure removal on natural adjacent teeth
AVERAGE RANGE OF TREATMENT LIFE EXPECTANCY
Once successfully integrated into the bone, the implant can last indefinitely, barring infection. The life expectancy of the restoration will be the same as described for a crown: five to fifteen years.
COST
Fees vary based on the difficulty of the procedure, individual variables, history and expectations.
Ref: Change Your Smile, 3rd ed., Ronald E. Goldstein, DDS