Dental Implants FAQ

Getting implants is a significant investment of time and money for anyone. It is natural to have questions. Dr. K answers each patient’s questions in detail at their consultation but has provided the following dental implant FAQs to answer the most common questions.

Am I a good candidate for implants?

When you come in for your initial consultation, we will gather information on your medical history to determine if you are medically fit to receive dental implants.  We will also take a CT scan to make sure you have enough bone for implants.  Finally, we will help you to determine if you are financially qualified for dental implants by gathering information on your dental insurance and pre-qualify you with one of our financing companies if needed.

How long will this process take?

This process can take anywhere from 3-6 months, and it depends on several factors including but not limited to, the amount of bone you have left and how long your implants need to heal before you can get your permanent teeth.  The good news is you are not without teeth during this time. Immediately after implants are placed, you will leave with a temporary set of teeth. Once healing is sufficient, your permanent crowns or full-arch bridge are attached.

What is the process like?

Step 1: Creating your beautiful smile!  Before we put in your implants, we need to decide what we want your final teeth to look like. The first step will involve taking photos and digital scans.  Together, you and Dr K will decide what you like about your teeth and what you don’t.  This information will be collected and used to create and customize your new smile! This process can sometimes take several visits, depending on how quickly we can establish your perfect smile!

Step 2: Surgery, which involves removing your teeth (if you have any) and placing your implants. This surgery can take anywhere from 1-5 hours, depending on the number of teeth and implants.

Step 3: After your implants and gums heal (about 3-4 months) you will come back to our office for a final scan of your healed gums and we will start making your final, permanent teeth.

Will I be sedated for the procedure?

Many patients have dental anxiety and choose to be sedated for the implant surgery.  We offer conscious sedation which makes most people sleepy and many patients do not remember everything from the surgery.  You will be given a prescription for a medication which will help relax you and make you very sleepy during the procedure.  You will fill the prescription at your pharmacy prior, and then you will bring your pills with you on the day of the surgery.

How much does it cost?

We offer a range of solutions to replace your teeth and give you your smile back. Dental implant costs vary widely depending on how many implants are needed, the type of surgery performed, and whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting, are required. Dr. K and her team will provide you with a detailed quote after thoroughly evaluating your health and dental implant needs.

Will it hurt?

Many people believe that they will be in severe pain after implant surgery.  This is just not true!  Most patients report very minimal pain the next day!  There will be some soreness, but with proper medication and by following the post-op instructions you will go back to work and resume normal activities in no time!

What can I eat afterwards?

Implants require time to osseointegrate with your bone after they are placed (that just means they need time to heal and become strong!).  During this time, it is important that you avoid any excessive pressure on them.  You will be on a soft food diet for 3 months, and a list of foods that are safe to eat will be provided to you.

What are my teeth made out of?

There are a variety of options for materials that can be used for your final teeth, and we will choose a material that suits your particular needs. Material selections include a nano-ceramic material, which is some of the strongest aesthetic dental material available. We may also suggest a chrome cobalt bar with PMMA teeth and injected acrylic gums, which provides excellent strength and natural, beautiful looking teeth and gums that can be modified if necessary.  In some cases, we may recommend a zirconia material which has excellent physical, mechanical, biological and chemical properties.  This type of material is very strong and more resistant to breakage and chipping and may be better suited for heavy clenchers/bruxers.

Do you have a warranty?

Yes! We provide a 5 year warranty on your implants and your new teeth. If an implant fails or becomes infected, we will do whatever is necessary to treat, remove, or replace that implant.  If a tooth chips or breaks, we will cover the cost of the repair.

Will I need bone grafts?

If you have recently lost your teeth and have a strong jawbone ridge, bone grafts are not usually needed. If your jawbone is too thin or has lost density, bone grafting strengthens the jawbone so it can fuse with and support the implants. The longer your teeth have been missing, the more likely you will need bone grafts. The grafting procedure is safe and effective and allows most people to get implants.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Dental implants are extremely easy-care. If you perform good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, your dental implants should last for decades.

Are dental implants safe?

Yes. Dental implants have a success rate of over 95%. The titanium implants are biocompatible and preserve jawbone health. Most patients’ dental implants last a lifetime.

If you have additional dental implant questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at Owings Mills Phone Number (443) 258-9939. Dr. K or her team will answer your questions and, if you like, schedule a consultation so you can learn more.