Dental Implants: Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION: HOW LONG DO IMPLANTS TAKE?

A: In general it takes about 2 months of healing time before we can place the crown on top of the implants. If your bone is less strong (like putting a screw into a porous wall) we sometimes have to have a longer healing period.

QUESTION: ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS EXPENSIVE?

A: Initially, dental implants do have a higher cost. However, in the long term, the benefits outweigh the initial investment. And we know we have some of the lowest prices in town while still offering a superior product. To determine the final price, an evaluation first has to be done to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. We offer a free implant consultation and we also offer interest-free financing. Contact us today and find out if dental implants can be an affordable permanent solution for you.

QUESTION: WHAT IS AN ABUTMENT?

A: An abutment serves as a connection between the implant post/screw in your jawbone and your mouth. The abutment is screwed into the post and you can then place a crown on top of it. Sometimes we can avoid adding an abutment without compromising on long-term success or quality to save you money – just one of many ways we try to make implants more affordable for you.

QUESTION: WHEN WERE DENTAL IMPLANTS DEVELOPED?

A: PI Branemark, a Swedish surgeon, placed the first dental implant in 1965. Now, decades later, we have seen a huge improvement in the technology streamlining the process and increasing the success rate. We can now replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or even all of your teeth with dental implants.

QUESTION: HOW IS A DENTAL IMPLANT PLACED?

A: Implants are made from titanium that allows for bone infiltration into the rough surface of the implant to solidly anchor it in place. This is the same principle as a knee or hip replacement. The implant is screwed into the correct position and then it heals for about 2 months.

QUESTION: WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE OF A DENTAL IMPLANT?

A: There is now a 90 – 95% success rate generally for the placement of implants. The success rate can be decreased by smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and poor oral hygiene. Sign of a failing implant is over 1 mm of bone loss after the first year, lack of integration with your jawbone, and peri-implantitis (destructive inflammation of the surrounding tissue and bone that leads to bone loss). This is one of the reasons why people with dental implants should be seen for routine care every 6 months.