Dental Implants

Yes, dental implants can help improve speech by providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth, allowing for clearer pronunciation and reducing issues such as clicking or slipping associated with traditional dentures.

Alternatives to dental implants include fixed bridges, removable partial dentures, and full dentures. Your dental professional will discuss the pros and cons of each option and help you choose the best solution for your specific situation.

During your initial dental implant consultation, your dental professional will review your medical and dental history, take X-rays and possibly a CT scan, and discuss your treatment options. They will also examine your oral health and assess the quality and quantity of your jawbone to determine your eligibility for dental implants.

Sinus problems related to dental implants are rare but can occur, particularly when placing implants in the upper jaw near the sinus cavity. A sinus lift procedure may be necessary to minimize the risk of sinus complications.

Nerve damage is a rare but potential complication of dental implant surgery. A skilled dental professional will take precautions to avoid damaging nerves during the procedure.

Dental implants themselves should not cause bad breath. However, poor oral hygiene or infection around the implant can lead to bad breath. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups will help prevent this issue.

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants. Your dentist will recommend an appropriate schedule for checkups, usually every six months to a year.

The dental implant process can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete, depending on factors such as the need for bone grafting, the complexity of the case, and the healing time required between stages.

Dental implant rejection is rare, as implants are made of biocompatible materials like titanium or zirconia. However, in some cases, the body may not properly integrate with the implant, leading to implant failure.

Dental implants offer several advantages over dentures and bridges, including improved stability, a more natural appearance and feel, preservation of jawbone and facial structure, and no need to alter adjacent teeth. They also allow for better chewing function and may last a lifetime with proper care.

Patients with autoimmune diseases may still be candidates for dental implants, but the risk of complications may be higher. It’s crucial to discuss your medical history with your dental professional to determine the best course of action.

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can put additional stress on dental implants and may increase the risk of complications. However, it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from getting implants. Your dental professional may recommend a night guard or other treatment options to manage your bruxism.

Dental implants are typically not recommended for children, as their jawbones are still growing. In most cases, dental professionals will wait until growth is complete before considering implants.

Allergic reactions to dental implants are rare, as they are made from biocompatible materials such as titanium or zirconia. If you have concerns about allergies, discuss them with your dental professional before the procedure.

It is generally recommended to postpone elective dental procedures, including dental implants, until after pregnancy. Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes that may affect your gums and jawbone, making it preferable to wait until after delivery.

A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. It may be necessary if there is insufficient bone height in this area for dental implant placement.

Yes, dental implants can fail in some cases, though the failure rate is relatively low. Factors that can contribute to implant failure include infection, smoking, and certain medical conditions. If an implant fails, your dental professional will discuss your options for replacement or alternative treatments.

Immediately after dental implant surgery, you should stick to a soft food diet for a few days to a week. As healing progresses, you can gradually reintroduce more solid foods. Your dental professional will provide guidance on when it’s safe to resume your normal diet.

Your dental professional will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for your dental implant surgery. Generally, this will include maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for transportation after the procedure.

Patients who have had radiation therapy to the jaw may still be candidates for dental implants, but they may face a higher risk of complications. It is crucial to discuss your medical history with your dental professional to determine the best course of action.

Active gum disease should be treated and controlled before considering dental implants. Untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss and implant failure. Once your gums are healthy, you may be a candidate for dental implants.

While rare, some patients may experience headaches after dental implant surgery. This can be caused by factors such as muscle strain, nerve irritation, or a bite misalignment. If headaches persist, it’s essential to consult your dental professional.

Yes, dental implants can be used to replace multiple missing teeth. Depending on the situation, this can be accomplished through individual implants and crowns, implant-supported bridges, or implant-supported dentures.

A mini dental implant is a smaller version of a standard dental implant, typically used in cases where there is insufficient bone density for a full-sized implant or to support a removable denture.

The ideal time for dental implant placement after tooth extraction varies based on individual factors such as bone quality and the specific tooth involved. In some cases, an implant can be placed immediately after extraction, while in others, a waiting period of several months may be necessary to allow for proper healing and bone regeneration.

Patients with well-controlled diabetes can typically receive dental implants. However, uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of complications and implant failure. It’s essential to discuss your medical history with your dental professional before considering dental implants.

It is strongly recommended that you avoid smoking during the healing process after dental implant surgery, as smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications and implant failure.

To find a qualified dental implant specialist, ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your general dentist. Look for a professional with extensive experience and training in implant dentistry, such as a prosthodontist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Yes, dental implants can help prevent further bone loss by providing stimulation to the jawbone through chewing and biting, similar to natural teeth.

An implant-supported denture is a type of removable denture that is secured to dental implants for added stability and improved function. This type of denture is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty with traditional dentures.

Dental implants can be removed if necessary, but this is generally only done in cases of implant failure, infection, or other complications. In most cases, dental implants are considered a permanent solution for missing teeth.

Dental implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration. Some implants are made of zirconia, a ceramic material, but titanium is the most widely used.

A bone graft is a procedure that involves adding bone or bone-like material to the jaw to increase its density and provide support for dental implants. It may be necessary if your jawbone has insufficient volume or density to support an implant.

Potential complications include infection, nerve damage, sinus issues, damage to surrounding teeth, and implant failure. However, these risks are relatively low, and most patients experience successful outcomes.

Dental implants themselves cannot be whitened, as they are made of titanium. However, the dental prosthesis (crown, bridge, or denture) can be made to match the desired shade of your natural teeth.

Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, patients experience mild discomfort for a few days following surgery. Complete healing and osteointegration may take several months, after which the final prosthesis can be placed.

The dental implant procedure typically involves several stages: consultation and planning, tooth extraction (if necessary), bone grafting (if required), implant placement, abutment placement, and the final prosthesis (crown, bridge, or denture).

Dental implants themselves cannot develop cavities, as they are made of titanium. However, the natural teeth around the implant are still susceptible to decay and gum disease, so proper oral hygiene is crucial.

Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Your dental professional may recommend specific oral hygiene products to ensure the longevity of your implants.

Dental implant coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. Some plans may partially cover the cost, while others may not. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider for specific details.

Some dental implant procedures can be completed in one day, known as “immediate loading” or “same-day implants.” However, this approach is not suitable for all cases, and many patients require a more traditional, multi-stage process.

The cost of dental implants varies based on factors such as geographical location, the complexity of the case, and the type of implant used. In general, single implants can range from $1,500 to $6,000, but this does not include additional procedures that may be required, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts.

Dental implants have a high success rate, ranging from 90-95% depending on various factors such as patient health, implant location, and the expertise of the dental professional.

The dental implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, making it a relatively painless experience. Post-operative discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and subsides within a few days.

Most people are suitable candidates for dental implants. However, those with certain health conditions or insufficient jawbone density may not be eligible. A thorough examination and consultation with a dental professional are necessary to determine eligibility.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are essential to ensure their longevity.

Yes, dental implants are a safe and well-established treatment option. They have been successfully used in dentistry for over 50 years and have a high success rate.

Dental implants fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. They provide support for dental prostheses such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, which replace the visible part of the tooth.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth designed to match your natural teeth.

Your new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist. See your dentist in six months, or more frequently if so advised.

It is normal to have some bruising and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an ordinary painkiller. You should expect to be able to work the next day.

With any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort then placing several. Anesthesia and patient sedation are commonly administered to help reduce any discomfort during the dental implant process. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Your doctor will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur. Ask your dentist to recommend another patient who has already had tooth replacement therapy to assess their personal experience.

Today, state-of-the-art guided surgical techniques are convenient alternatives to place dental implants and allow you to have the dental implant placed in a single session using keyhole surgery. This new method has significantly simplified the procedure, for both patients and dentists. The major advantage of the guided surgical technique is the minimal amount of manipulation of the soft tissue due to keyhole surgery. This significantly reduces the healing time and the discomfort normally associated with traditional dental implant surgical techniques.

The conventional process can take from three to six months. First, the dentist places the dental implant, which is left for three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, your are given a temporary prosthesis until the permanent crown is put in place.

The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your dental health, the number of teeth involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits to the dentist throughout the treatment period.

Yes. Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity, pressure and force of your bite with dental implants is comparable to that of natural teeth.

When dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations. Often they are hard to tell apart from your natural teeth.

Improved appearance:

When you lose the entire tooth – crown and root – shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older. Dental implants can stop this process. A traditional denture or dental bridge doesn’t.

Preserve natural teeth:

With traditional dental bridges, teeth adjacent to missing teeth are normally ground down to be used as anchors for a dental bridge. Dental implants often eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth.

Permanent solution:

There are no loose parts to worry about losing. The dental implant is stable and comfortable. No adjustment is need after placement. Normally, it will serve its owner for life.

Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most importantly, dental implants often improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.

Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate dental implant treatment. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.

Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factor is the amount of available bone. Your dentist is the best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of dental implants required to support your replacement teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have a doctor examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination, your dentist will recommend the treatment that is best for you.

Even though most dentists refer their patients to specialists for the placement of dental implants, Dr. Lieu has the training and expertise to perform the surgery in his office without the need for a referral saving your time and money.

Without the root structure of a natural tooth present, the jawbone can shrink and dissolve. This shrinkage will make your face look older than it is.
With more than three decades of clinical experience and over a million patients treated, statistics confirm a success rate of nearly 95 percent for individual dental implants.

A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Dental implants can be placed in either the upper or lower jaws. Due to the bio-compatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a good anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used in solutions for replacing single or multiple missing teeth.

If you are missing one or more teeth, or have loose fitting dentures, dental implants may be for you.

Dental implants are permanent anchors that integrate with the jawbone to provide secure, stable and long-lasting tooth replacement. Because dental implants become part of the jaw, they look and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, talk and smile without worry.

When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them one of the best investments for long-term tooth replacement. Studies have reported that the long-term success rate of implants is over 95%.