F.A.Q.

Am I healthy enough for implants?
You will be undergoing a surgical procedure to have dental implants. You will be asked for your health history through a medical questionnaire, and your attending physician may be consulted, if needed. People of all ages can receive dental implants.

I am very busy. Will I have to interrupt my normal activities for a long time?
It all depends on your general state of health and recuperation ability. You should plan a one- or two-days recuperation period, but one week might be best for some people. After 48 hours of recuperation time, you can go back to your normal activities without major discomfort.

Is it painful?
It is impossible to undergo surgery without discomfort. You will be given very effective analgesics as well as pre-determined medication. Most patients say they are pleasantly surprised by the surgical experience and the relative ease of the immediate post-operative period. You will be carefully monitored by the entire team in order to ensure your maximum comfort before and after the treatment.

Will I have to forego my dentures for a period of time?
No. Due to advances in pain medication, the ease of the procedure and the methods that will be used, you will be able to wear your usual prostheses immediately after the first surgery and for the duration of the treatment until your permanent teeth are in place. Your prosthesis will be modified to make it comfortable and functional. It will aid in the healing of your gums and maxillary bone.

Do implant-supported prostheses require special maintenance?
Implant-supported prostheses require the same type of maintenance as natural teeth. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, there may be a need for cleaning and repair during your regular appointments. Regular x-rays should be taken in order to verify the health of the bone surrounding the implant.

What is the life cycle of an implant?
So far there is no known limit to the durability of a dental implant. Current knowledge suggests that for the majority of patients, most implants will last for the life of the wearer.

Could my body reject the implant?
Occasionally, there are implants that do not integrate into the bone properly. If that happens, the implant must be replaced by a slightly bigger one, which means that the treatment time will be extended by a few months. The final result will be the same, however.

How much do dental implants cost?
Each case is different. The actual cost can only be determined after an in-depth examination. The cost of dental implants may be partially offset by your insurance and a tax deduction. Our office can also suggest a financing plan to aid in your decision.

Will I be able to eat normally after the surgery?
Throughout the course of your treatment, you must pay close attention to dental hygiene and to the prescribed diet. Depending on your treatment, you may have to eat a soft diet initially and slowly reintroduce other foods by gradually increasing their consistency. These factors will be very important to the success of the treatment, and they are your responsibility alone.