After Implant Placement FAQ

What can I use for teeth while the implants heal?

Many options are available, and they are tailored to your specific requirements. If you need a replacement tooth while the implants are healing, temporary removable teeth or a temporary bridge can be made by your general dentist. If all of your teeth are missing, we can usually modify your present complete denture or make you a new temporary denture. Depending on your particular situation, some implants can be placed and “loaded” immediately. This means a temporary or permanent replacement tooth can be placed on, or shortly after, the day the implant is placed.

A middle-aged man and woman smiling with good teeth

What are the potential problems after dental implant surgery?

Although it is natural to be concerned about the pain that may be caused by these procedures, most patients do not experience severe or significant post-operative pain. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed for you to make your recovery as easy as possible. Occasionally, some people develop post-operative infections that require additional antibiotic treatment. Even though great care is taken to place the implant precisely, occasionally adjacent teeth are injured in the placement process. In addition, there is a chance that the nerve in the lower jaw, which provides sensation to your lower lip and chin, may be affected. If you are missing quite a lot of bone, it might be difficult to place an implant without infringing on the nerve space. Although we take great care to avoid this nerve, occasionally it is irritated during the procedure, resulting in tingling, numbness or a complete lack of sensation in your lip, chin or tongue. Usually these altered sensations will resolve within time, but they can be permanent and/or painful. 

How long will the implants last?

Implants usually last a long time if they are cared for and maintained.  When patients are missing all of their teeth, long-term studies (more than 30 years) show an 80 to 90 percent success rate. For patients missing one or several teeth, recent studies show a success rate of greater than 90 percent, which compares favorably with other areas in the body that receive implant replacement (such as hips or knees). However, if one of your dental implants either doesn’t heal properly or loosens after a period of time, you may need to have it removed. After the site heals (or on occasion at the time of removal), another implant usually can be placed.

When are the replacement teeth attached to the implant?

The replacement teeth are usually attached to the implant when adequate healing has occurred and your jaw bone is firmly fused to the implant.  Oftentimes, a healing period of greater than 8 weeks will be required. Depending on a variety of factors, it may be possible to begin this phase of your treatment immediately or shortly after implant placement.   We will review the most appropriate treatment sequence and timing for your particular situation.

Your restorative treatment will begin with your restorative dentist after the implant has healed and integrated with the bone.   Your restorative dentist will take impressions that will produce a replica of your mouth and the implant(s). With this information, your restorative dentist will make the abutments (support posts) that attach your replacement teeth to your implants. Various types of abutments exist.  The various types may be discussed with your restorative dentist.

The number of appointments and the amount of time required for each appointment is different for each patient. No two cases are exactly the same and regardless of the number of teeth replaced, the work must be completed with great precision and attention to detail. 

The restorative phase of the implant process will be performed with your restorative dentist.  The costs of the abutment, crown, and other necessary items will be with your restorative dentist.  Please contact their office to review how much the restorative phase of your treatment will cost.  It also is difficult to give you a specific timeframe for completion of your treatment until after the implants are ready for restoration.

A couple with great smiles

Dental Implants

are the most technologically advanced and longest lasting tooth replacement option available. Restore your confidence… Smile, Eat and Enjoy!

How do I clean my new teeth?

As with natural teeth, it is important that you clean implant-supported restorations regularly with toothbrushes, floss and any other recommended aids. You should also visit your dentist several times each year for hygiene and maintenance. As with regular dentures and other tooth replacements, your implants and their associated components are subject to wear and tear and eventually may need repair, including clip replacement, relines, screw tightening, and other adjustments.

How much does dental implant treatment cost?

Before treatment begins, every effort will be made to give you the most accurate estimate of all the expenses involved in the surgical phase of placement of the implants.  Please contact your restorative dentist to discuss the costs of making your replacement teeth. 

When different doctors are involved in your treatment, you will be charged separately for their services. We will try to assist you in estimating what your actual payments will be after we evaluate your insurance coverage or other third party payments. Also, you should consider your personal financial investment in each treatment option as some insurance companies provide limited or no coverage.

Each patient is unique, and it is not possible for us to discuss every option and every contingency for treatment outcome. This website is intended to help you understand the general treatment options available to you.  To review your specific treatment options, please contact our office. We will be happy to answer any questions you have about your dental care.