After Implant Placement FAQ

What can I use for teeth while the implants heal?

Many options are available, and they are tailored to your specific requirements. If you need a replacement tooth while the implants are healing, temporary removable teeth or a temporary bridge can be made. If all of your teeth are missing, we can usually modify your present complete denture or make you a new temporary denture. 

How long will the implants last?

Implants usually last a long time. When patients are missing all of their teeth, long-term studies (more than 30 years) show an 80 to 90 percent success rate. For patients missing one or several teeth, recent studies show a success rate of greater than 95 percent, which compares favorably with other areas in the body that receive implant replacement (such as hips or knees). However, if one of your dental implants either doesn’t heal properly or loosens after a period of time, you may need to have it removed. After the site heals (or on occasion at the time of removal), another implant usually can be placed.

When are the replacement teeth attached to the implant?

The replacement teeth are usually attached to the implant when adequate healing has occurred, and your Implant has integrated to the surrounding bone. Dr. Burns will appoint you for re-evaluation of the implant, at which time he will perform a specialized test on the implant that will assess the implant’s integration with the surrounding bone. When the integration is deemed sufficient, Dr. Burns will refer you to your restorative dentist to complete treatment.

The dental work performed by your restorative dentist that will complete your implant treatment is complex. Most of the work involves actually making the new teeth before they are placed. Your appointments are considered more comfortable and more pleasant than previous methods of tooth replacement. Frequently, this process can be performed without local anesthesia.

The number of appointments and the amount of time required for each appointment is different for each patient. No two cases are exactly the same and regardless of the number of teeth replaced, the work must be completed with great precision and attention to detail. Between appointments, we will need time to complete the necessary lab work to make your replacement teeth.

Dental Implants

are the most technologically advanced and longest lasting tooth replacement option available.
Restore your confidence…
Smile, Eat and Enjoy!

 

How do I clean my new teeth?

As with natural teeth, it is important that you clean implant-supported restorations regularly with toothbrushes, floss and any other recommended aids. You should also visit your dentist several times each year for hygiene and maintenance. As with regular dentures and other tooth replacements, your implants and their associated components are subject to wear and tear and eventually will need repair, including clip replacement, relines, screw tightening, and other adjustments.

Will one doctor do everything?

Usually, a dental surgeon places the implant(s) and performs other necessary surgical procedures – your general dentist provides the temporary and permanent replacement teeth. Both doctors are involved in planning your dental treatment. Also, depending upon a variety of factors, different dental specialists may help with your dental care.

What are the potential problems after dental implant surgery?

Discomfort – It is natural to have some degree of discomfort after implant placement, but typically, most patients do not experience sever of significant post-operative discomfort. Either prescription or over-the-counter medications are recommended. Dr. Burns will help you determine what medications will make you most comfortable after treatment.

Infection – Dr. Burns typically prescribes post-operative antibiotics following implant placement. For this reason, among others, infection following implant placement is rare.

Nerve Injury – Injury to the inferior alveolar nerve that provides sensation to the lower lip is rare due to the imaging and care that Dr. Burns provides when planning and placing implants in the lower jaw (mandible). Injury to this nerve can cause permanent numbness, tingling, or rarely pain in the lower lip. Occasionally, due to the position of the inferior alveolar nerve, Dr. Burns will recommend avoiding implants in the lower jaw (mandible) due to the high risk of nerve injury.

Implant Failure – Rarely, an implant will simply not “take”. There are many reasons for these early implant failures. Usually, the failing implant can be removed, the site grafted with bone, and an implant replaced into that site. This is a frustrating and disappointing occurrence for both the patient and Dr. Burns. 

How much does dental implant treatment cost?

Before treatment begins, every effort will be made to give you an accurate estimate of all the expenses involved in placing the implants prior to treatment. Different doctor’s offices are involved in your treatment, and you will be charged separately for services provided by Dr. Burns and services provided by your restorative dentist. 

We will try to assist you in estimating your insurance coverage. Also, you should consider your personal financial investment in each treatment option as some insurance companies provide limited or no coverage.

Each patient is unique, and it is not possible for us to discuss every option and every contingency for treatment outcome. This website is intended to help you understand the general treatment options available to you. If your specific treatment options are not clear, please contact us. We will be happy to answer any questions you have about your dental care.