Answers to some Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dental Implants a more painful procedure?
No. In experienced hands, dental implant procedures are like any other procedure performed in a dental office.
Should I consider IV sedation?
Yes. We provide IV sedation. IV sedation is an excellent option for a medically compromised patient. It is also a good option to relieve anxiety with any dental procedure.
What is the difference between an implant and a bridge?
The implant is a screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. After healing is complete a post attachment is then placed over the implant and afterward, a crown is cemented over the implant post or a crown is retained with a screw.
A bridge, however, requires the grinding down of a tooth on each side of the missing tooth’s space. The abutment teeth, which have been ground down, are then used to support the bridge. The bridge is cemented over top of the grounded abutment teeth.
What is the downfall of a bridge?
The downfall with a bridge is that it is difficult to floss underneath the bridge and it costs more than an implant. Also, sometimes, the side teeth can become more sensitive from being ground down and can have decay in the future.
Will anyone be able to tell that I have an implant?
No, not when you are in the hands of an experienced, skilled dentist.
What problems can I have after implant placement?
Implant problems can be classified primarily as follows in A & B:
- A. If the patient has osteoporosis, uncontrolled diabetes, is a smoker, or has a debilitating health condition, they could have a problem with their implant. The best suggestion would be to call an experienced dentist to discuss whether or not you are a good candidate for an implant.
- B. If the patient is a noncompliant patient, then many problems can happen after surgery such as: loose implants, loss of bone, infections, etc. For more information call our office and expert personnel will be happy to answer your questions.
How do I select a cosmetic dentist who does cosmetic dentistry and dental implants?
The dentist should be proficient in soft tissue grafting (gum grafting), bone graft procedure, sinus graft surgery among other procedure because these are vital sometimes to complete the treatment properly. Ask the Better Business Bureau for recommendations. Visit multiple dentists to compare costs and options.
What questions should I ask the dentist?
You have the right to ask any question directly to the dentist. What year did they graduate? If a dentist graduated less than 5 years ago, their experience is limited.
Verify the credentials and number of years of experience of the dentist. (The learning curve is 10 years for extensive treatment plans)
What is the disadvantage of choosing a corporately owned dental office over a privately owned dental office?
In a corporately owned dental office the dentist does not own the office. The dentist follows directives from the corporation headquarters that is in the best interest of the corporation/business and is not necessarily in the best interest of the patient such as: pushing a more expensive treatment option and not disclosing a less expensive option that would meet the patient’s needs; pressuring a patient to take a loan to pay for that more expensive option; pressuring a patient to start treatment immediately so that the patient does not take time to really think about whether they can really afford the treatment or whether or not that treatment is their best option.
I have missing teeth. Should I choose dentures or implants?
If a denture is made correctly, it will serve the patient’s needs very well. If, however, cost is not prohibitive, then implants would be a very good choice.
How long do implants last?
Our implants have a life-time warranty.
I had all-on-4 done and my teeth look bigger than my original teeth and I speak differently now. Why is this?
A patient should look at their photos pf graduation and marriage and should ask their dentist before starting treatment if their outcome will look the same.
How do your prices compare with other offices?
In our office we provide the highest quality dental work with a low cost.
Do you see emergency patients?
Yes. We see emergency patients.
What complications can occur from having all-on-4?
Refer this question to Google and you will have a full set of answers.