Implant treatment is a procedure performed by an oral surgeon or periodontist working with a restorative dentist and a laboratory as a team. All are specially trained in their part of the implant treatment.

      What is an implant?
       Who is a candidate for dental implants?
       Is there pain or discomfort involved?
       How will I benefit from dental implants?
       How long will the treatment take?
       Will I ever be without my teeth?
       How much will it cost?
       How long do implants last?
       Is it important to take care of the implants after the treatment is           completed?

What is an implant?
A dental implant is a small man-made titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone and serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Implant supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are a proven restorative option with a long clinical history. Dental implants preserve the integrity of the facial structure and reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Anyone who is missing one or more of their teeth due to injury, disease, or decay may be a candidate for dental implants. If one, a few or all teeth are missing, dental implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those teeth. Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits that dental implants offer. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth 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 medical health history. At this time all your questions can be answered.

Is there pain or discomfort involved?
Most patients report that there is very little discomfort and that they were much more comfortable following the procedure then they anticipated. implants are placed in a very gentle fashion and care is taken to the various tissues involved. Anesthesia and patient sedation are used to eliminate any discomfort at the time of the procedure. Your dentist may recommend that you speak with another patient who has already had tooth replacement therapy to assess their personal experience

How will I benefit from dental implants?
The benefits of implant treatment include appearance, the enhanced ability to chew and enjoy your food, and often protection of your remaining teeth and jawbone. Dental implants offer many benefits never before available for the treatment of missing teeth. In short, dental implants will look, feel and function like your real teeth.

How long will the treatment take?
Treatment time will vary depending on your unique situation. Nowadays it is often possible to get well functioning and esthetic looking teeth within a few days. In some cases it may be necessary to wait a longer time period before finishing the restoration in order to obtain an optimal result.

Will I ever be without my teeth?
This depends on your situation. Most patients can leave the office wearing some type of temporary prosthesis.

How much will it 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. It is important for you to know that you do not necessarily need an implant for each missing root. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have a doctor examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination, your dentist will recommend the treatment that is best for you and what your investment would be for the procedure.

How long do implants last?
At Nobel Biocare we have experience from over 32 years of replacing missing teeth with dental implants. Dental bridges supported by implants from Nobel Biocare have been shown to last over 15 years in 90% of cases. We have every indication that they will last for much longer. Most patients can expect them to last a life time. The first patient received his dental implants more than 30 years ago and they are still functioning today.

Is it important to take care of the implants after the treatment is completed?
Yes! Maintaining care of the implants will help to assure the long-term success of your treatment. You will be responsible for daily plaque removal, which can be accomplished through brushing and flossing around your restoration. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to properly care for your implants. You must visit your dentist at least once a year for maintenance appointments.