Q: Is implant surgery painful?
A: Implant placement is usually done under local anesthesia. Once the anesthesia takes effect, you shouldn’t feel anything.
Q: What can I expect after surgery?
A: Most people heal quickly with only minor discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Q: How long is the implant process?
A: It depends on how many implants you’re having placed. But typically, simple implant placement takes less than an hour.
Q: How soon can I eat?
A: You should keep food away from the surgical site. Be sure to eat soft, nutritious food and stay well hydrated. We’ll provide post-surgical instructions for your individual treatment plan.
Q: How long does implant process take?
A: Between three to twelve months—depending on your treatment plan and whether bone grafting is required prior to implant placement. The process itself has two phases: First the implants need to heal by fusing to the bone and then the replacement teeth (crowns) have to be fabricated and attached.
Q: How long do implants last?
A: If cared for properly, successful implants last for decades. (Many have lasted 40 years and counting.)
Q: What are dental implants made of?
A: Implants are titanium screws that act as anchors, like tooth roots. After the implants heal, either dental crowns, bridges or implant-supported dentures are attached to look and function like teeth.
Q: Are implants ever rejected by the body? And what happens then?
A: Occasionally, implants fail to fuse properly to the bone—due to the unusual growth of fibrous tissue or an infection. If this happens, we remove the implant and, after the site has healed, we can usually place another implant, which will integrate normally with the bone.
Q: Are implants expensive?
A: While a little more expensive initially than fixed bridgework, implants last so much longer, that over time, they’re more cost-effective. And unlike bridgework, implants don’t require irreversibly damaging neighboring teeth.
Q: Will my implants be covered by insurance?
A: Implants are considered elective procedures, which many plans don’t cover if there are less expensive alternatives. However, with implants becoming more common, this is changing. We will help you determine what your insurance plan covers. And we do accept Care Credit.