Hall Center for Dental Care
Dental Implants, Columbia and Lexington, South Carolina
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are Dental Implants?A Dental Implant is simply an artificial replacement for the root of a tooth that is implanted in the jawbone. Implants provide the support system for different kinds of artificial teeth, used to replace one or more lost teeth. They offer the patient an alternative to conventional partials and dentures. Implants also allow for non-removable, natural-looking and feeling crowns and bridges that do not attach to other teeth. Are there different types of Dental Implants?Yes, but the two most popular types of implants are the Rootform and Bladeform. The Rootform typically is used when there is tall, thick and wide bone at the receipt site. It is composed of two parts: 1) the body of the implant and 2) the abutment. The abutment remains above the gum and screws or cements into the implant body. It then provides an attachment point for the teeth. These implants are the most common. A disadvantage of the Rootform is that it requires a greater amount of bone at the placement site than is sometimes available. Also, there may be only one abutment per implant. The Bladeform type of implant usually is used when the bone is too thin or short for placement of a Rootform. It is frequently used in back of the lower jaw because of the minimal amount of available bone often there. Additionally, some patients cannot open their mouths wide enough for placement of a Rootform. How do I know if Dental Implants are right for me?Your first step is to contact the Hall Center to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Hall (803-359-7100). You and he then discuss options for implants. This session includes a thorough examination (including x-rays), a review of your medical and dental history, a discussion of your concerns, and a review of your dental options. Typically, a candidate for Dental Implants should be in good general health. If you have diabetes or serious heart, lung or blood problems, you should disclose this to Dr. Hall immediately and then discuss your alternatives. In addition, smoking and heavy alcohol consumption may reduce the success of treatment. Is the Dental Implant procedure painful?Dental Implants at the Hall Center are performed under conscious sedation – sometimes referred to as “hospital sedation.” Under conscious sedation, patients enter a drowsy, sleepy state but are not unconscious, as with general anesthesia. Implant procedures are totally pain-free, and you – in all likelihood – have no memory of the treatment. Since your well-being is paramount to Dr. Hall, your vital functions – including pulse, respiration and blood pressure – are constantly monitored. This is one of the most common forms of dental sedation and has been used by Dr. Hall for thousands of procedures. Our goal is to provide exceptional dental services in a comfortable, caring manner. Conscious sedation not only provides the patient with a pain-free experience, but also decreases the physical and emotional stress some people experience with dental procedures. What advantages do Dental Implants have compared to partial dentures?Implant-supported teeth provide numerous advantages to traditional partial dentures, which can contribute to overload and premature loss of other natural teeth. In effect, the natural supporting teeth are doing not only their jobs, but also the work of missing teeth. Implant-supported teeth lessen the weight and preserve natural teeth by standing independently and carrying their share of biting strength. They also increase chewing ability up to 65 percent over a standard partial denture. Also, implant-supported teeth are comfortable, since they do not touch the gums. Implants preserve the strength of the jaw by maintaining the bone in the jaw — thus, stimulating it like natural teeth. Just as important, they improve the emotional and psychological well-being of the patient by providing more natural-like teeth. How do Dental Implants compare to a complete denture?A complete denture is basically a removable “gum cover” that depends on the gums for support and atmospheric pressure for stability. Many denture patients experience gum soreness, poor function, increased bone loss, gagging, food entrapment and emotional stress from “being toothless.” With Dental Implants, there is greater comfort and function, since the teeth are supported similar to natural teeth — off the gum — thus eliminating soreness. Also, bone loss is reduced, and implants frequently allow removal of the roof of the mouth portion of the denture, which does away with gagging . How would I know if I am too old for Dental Implants?Age itself is not a factor in the success of Dental Implants. No matter your age, the sooner implants are placed, the longer you can enjoy new-found comfort, function and self-confidence. How long can I expect Dental Implants to last?Because of the many variables, it is impossible to guarantee a specific period that implants remain healthy. Historically, we do know that most last longer than 10 years. Generally, implants survive until supporting tissues fail or the implant breaks. Since few implants fracture, the limiting factor is usually tissue. It is interesting to note that many Dental Implant procedures — performed more than 30 years ago — are still functional today. How much will Dental Implants cost?Every Dental Implant procedure is unique. Therefore, each procedure requires a careful examination and assessment of what is required to complete the placement of an implant. This process is part of your initial consultation visit with Dr. Hall. Once it is determined if you are a candidate, Dr. Hall discusses the process, answers your questions and provides you with an estimate for your specific procedure. Will my dental benefits cover the cost for Dental Implants?Patients should check with both their dental benefits and medical insurance companies to determine if coverage is available for some or all of the implant procedure. Unfortunately, many dental policies were written before today’s modern dental procedures. Therefore, they may not cover Dental Implants. Depending on your specific dental situation and cause of tooth loss, you may or may not be able to apply coverage. It is important that you carefully explore this with your benefits provider. How long will the entire Dental Implant process take?Total treatment time from implant placement to fully functional teeth varies with each patient. Generally, implants are allowed to bond to the bone for four to six months after the procedure and before temporary teeth are placed. Then, the temporaries are worn for four to six weeks to strengthen the bone before replacement teeth are positioned. In some cases, temporary teeth may be placed on the implant the day of the procedure. Replacement teeth may take three to four months. Complex situations could require multiple procedures; therefore, healing time varies. Once placed, how do I take care of my Dental Implants?So that your implants provide long-term dental support, it is mandatory to maintain a rigorous at-home program. Dr. Hall provides complete instructions, practice and motivation. However, only you can maintain good dental hygiene and care. In addition, alcohol and tobacco have negative influences on implants. You are encouraged to discontinue the use of these products. And like prudent care for normal teeth, regular check-ups are necessary for proper maintenance and long-term success. |
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