Some of the most frequent questions I am asked these days regard implants. So here is a quick review of some of the facts on the subject.
~Can everyone who has lost a tooth have an implant? Well, almost everyone. There are a few things that would be reasons not to have an implant. For example, osteoporosis, inability to keep the area very clean and smoking are problems. Smoking is such a negative factor in the success of an implant that I do not do implants on smokers.
~What is an implant made of ? Titanium is used because of the body’s friendly acceptance of this material. The use of titanium has been the standard for over 40 years with a success rate over 90%. Occasionally I use a ceramic implant for people who can not tolerate any metals.
~How much bone will I need to have an implant? As a rule of thumb, 50% of the original bone is usually enough. Fortunately, there are several procedures to augment or graft in new bone when inadequate bone is present.
~Does the process hurt? A small amount of local anesthetic is placed in the area and the procedure becomes pain free. After the procedure mild pain medications are given for a day or two. My patients often comment that the procedure was much easier than they had expected.
~How many visits are required? Simple cases involving one or two implants typically require four visits from start to finish. The highest success rates are achieved when the procedure is spread over several months so that the bone and implant can grow together.
~Will I be able to chew normally ? Research has found that chewing ability becomes as good as with natural teeth. The same pressure and force can be applied to food with an implant as a natural tooth. In addition, the implant crown will look like a natural tooth.
~Is age a problem? Age is not a problem. Health is much more of a factor than age. People that are in average health and can tolerate normal dental care can usually tolerate implant placement. I have seen several people in their 90s doing very well with implants.
~How long will my implants last? There really is no time limit that can be given. Implants last indefinitely. I have seen a very few failures but these were in situations where the persons health had taken a turn for the worse. In some cases a new implant can be placed after the failed one is removed.
~How do I care for an implant? A person cares for an implant just like you would care for your natural teeth only better. The area around an implant must be kept very, very clean or the implant can fail. You just need to be sure you are keeping your mouth extra clean.
For a detailed review of implants click to see our dental implant page.
Tip of the day: The type of floss you use makes very little difference. Pick what works best for you.
Best regards, AM
