Dental Implants

About the Procedure

A dental implant is a custom made prosthetic designed to replace one or more teeth in such a way that closely mimics the feel and functionality of the originals. Such implants are ideal for people who have suffered heavy damage to a tooth or lost one entirely. They differ from other forms of tooth replacement in that they actually integrate with the jaw bone itself, making them theoretically permanent. This eliminates the inconvenience of needing to constantly remove and replace dentures as well as the difficulties with speaking and eating sometimes associated with them. The result is a better quality of life for the patient.

The process begins with the extraction of the damaged tooth. Then a titanium screw is drilled into the jaw bone where the damaged tooth previously resided. The next step is to wait for the bone to grow in around the titanium and bond with it, a process that differs in speed from patient to patient. Depending on a variety of factors, this process can take anywhere from six weeks to six months. During this period, a cap or temporary crown will be placed over the titanium screw to protect it from impact during the bonding period.

Once the bonding is complete, a crown is custom made for the patient. This will match the size, color, shape and bite of the original tooth. It is molded to securely fasten to the end of the titanium screw. Once attached, the procedure is finished.

This procedure is done on an out-patient basis and with local anesthesia. Most dental insurance plans will not cover dental implants.

What to Know Before the Procedure

Before any work is done x-rays are taken of the patient’s mouth and jaw and a mold is taken of the patient's bite. Sometimes, a CT scan is performed to get a more precise image of the surgical site. Then a team of at least one oral surgeon and one restorative dentist will look the images over to create a treatment plan. Using this data, several vital bits of information need to be established.

One is that there is sufficient bone in three dimensions to support the implant. If the implant site does not have sufficient bone then a bone graft may be performed to achieve the required bone mass.

It is also important to verify that the implant site is not going to impact the sinus cavity or any vital nerve endings. If this risk exists, a procedure called a sinus lift can be performed to make space for the implant. It may also be necessary to extract an adjacent tooth and place the titanium screw in its place and use it as a support for a multi-crown bridge to keep the screw from pinching a nerve.

It is also a good idea to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your surgical team, as well as any medications you are taking. If you have a history of smoking, diabetes, other dental issues, or have undergone any radiation based treatments, you may be at an increased risk of suffering from complications.

What to Know After the Procedure

After having the titanium screw implanted, it is common to feel some discomfort at the implant site for several days afterwards. Be sure to avoid putting undue stress on the implant site during the bonding period. Avoid habits such as teeth grinding as much as possible and try to limit yourself to soft foods. Chewing as far from the implant site as possible is advised. Disruption during the bonding process is the most common cause of implant failure.

If you are experiencing continued pain and discomfort at the implant site, inform your dentist as this may be an indication of osteonecrosis, which will require additional surgery to correct or remove the implant.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Dental implant procedures are unique in that they are planned and performed by a team of specialists rather than just one. The communication between them is vital to the success of the procedure. Because of this fact, it is important not only to choose qualified individuals but to choose people who have a history of collaboration together. This will help in achieving the absolute best results.

Since most insurance plans do not help pay for the procedure, cost will be a major deciding factor in where to have the procedure performed. Since there is only one additional visit required after the initial surgery, and the results can last for many years if the surgery is performed correctly, international travel can be a great way to reduce your costs substantially.