People with failing or missing teeth know the emotional pain that can come from smiling, a human act that should create happiness…but instead often causes shame and embarrassment.
While there are various methods and treatments for really problematic teeth, implants can be the best solution for many patients.
To learn more or to determine whether you are a candidate for Dental Implants, give us a call to schedule your consultation with Dr. Nazila Bidabadi! Dial 617.332.8146 for our Newton office, or 617.782.9250 for our Brighton office!
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a fixture used in tooth-replacement treatment. Unlike a bridge or denture, dental implant treatment restores the complete tooth, including the root. The implant consists of a tiny post, which is inserted into the jawbone. It also has an abutment, which connects the post to the crown, bridge, or denture.
Candidates for Dental Implants
Nearly any adult who is missing a tooth or teeth can be a candidate for dental implant treatment. The best outcomes are achieved in healthy patients who do not smoke. Health conditions such as cancer, periodontal disease, and uncontrolled diabetes can hinder bone from fusing to the implant. We conduct a thorough consultation and examination to help patients determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants.
What Are The Benefits of Dental Implants?
Implants offer the same look and function of your teeth and assures the natural appearance of perfect teeth.
Implants are a huge improvement over typical dentures or old school bridges.
Dental implants can be more comfortable, perform better, and last longer!
Dental implants not only look natural and beautiful, they also allow improvement of speech, and will not cause slurring or impede your speech like some ill-fitting dental appliances could often cause.
Unlike dentures, implant patients can brush and floss normally.
You can undergo a single tooth procedure, which can be the best way to replace an extracted tooth or a damaged/diseased tooth.
You can also replace multiple teeth if needed. Multiple teeth can be replaced or restored with implant bridges or multiple individual dental implants.
All on dental implants, or mini-dental implants can be the best choice for full upper or lower smiles. All-on implants can normally be utilized without the need for bone grafting, and can be the preferred alternative to dentures.
Implant Supported Dentures. The old-fashioned dentures may not fit right due to improper placement, or may hurt due to movements. Implant dentures (Stabilized dentures) may be the perfect alternative.
They can be popped-in and out, or placed as permanent. Sometimes, your dentures can be adapted to be reinforced by implants or mini-dental implants.
Patient Testimonial
“Dr Bidabadi is the goddess of dentistry. I have been been going to see her since 1990. She is meticulous, and has the deepest concern for your overall health. She takes the time to sit down and listen to your dental problems. She has the nicest, thorough and knowledgeable hygienists.”
– Don P., Boston, MA
Here’s the most important advantage for implant patients:
Your Smile Will Feel Natural, Look Beautiful And Engage Others In A Way You May Not Have Experienced In Decades!
Yes, there are many critical medical benefits that come with your new implants. But as important as they are…most patients are thrilled with being able to show a bright, winning smile that other people are inherently attracted to!
What Are Dental Implants Made Of?
Dental implants are screw-like posts that are made of titanium alloy. This material has been used for many years in knee, hip, and shoulder implants. It is known to be highly biocompatible, meaning that the risk of allergy is extremely rare.
Am I A Good Candidate?
Most people who are interested in tooth replacement are good candidates for dental implants. This treatment method can replace a single tooth or an entire mouth of teeth. Dental implant treatment is a viable alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. The best candidates are in good general health and good oral health. Ideally, dental implant patients have sufficient existing bone structure in which the implants can anchor. That said, advances in oral implantology allow dentists to provide dental implant treatment to patients who were once poor candidates. Even if you have lost some degree of jawbone density, you may still be a good candidate for this treatment. In fact, getting dental implants in addition to bone grafting may prevent further bone loss in the future.
To determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants, your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation of your mouth, teeth, jaw, gums, and overall health. X-rays and other imaging may be used to evaluate the jawbone and the shape of the sinuses, as well as nerve location around the treatment area. A comprehensive medical evaluation is also part of determining candidacy for dental implants. Studies suggest that some people may have a greater risk for poor treatment outcomes. Risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, uncontrolled gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, previous radiation therapy to the jaw, and cancer. While these conditions may not exclude a patient from getting dental implants, they present a need for an extremely thorough assessment of the situation to better guide treatment planning, performance, and recovery.
Overall, dental implant treatment has a very high success rate. If you are considering this treatment, we will perform an intensive consultation, medical history, and examination to determine which options may be appropriate for you.
Are Dental Implants The Best Option For Restoring My Smile?
Dental implants are the next best thing to your real teeth. The result of treatment looks and feels just like natural teeth, with the dental implant filling in for the natural root. In addition to looking and feeling like healthy teeth that you were born with, dental implant restorations are advantageous because they promote jawbone regeneration. One of the most significant consequences of tooth loss, even with replacement using a bridge or dentures, is that the bone no longer receives the stimulation that fosters regeneration. Over time, the bone structure degrades. Depending on the extent of this degradation, a person's appearance may change. The cheeks and area around the mouth can look sunken. Dental implants, topped with appropriate artificial teeth, fill the smile in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and also fill the jawbone with the internal structure that promotes long-term bone density.
Dental implants may not be the perfect solution for every person. However, this approach to tooth replacement is an excellent option in most cases.
What To Expect During The Procedure
Usually, several appointments are scheduled to complete the dental implant process, including our consultation, the dental implant procedure, and the placement of abutments and artificial teeth.
The dental implant procedure is performed in the office after the patient is given a local anesthetic to numb the mouth. This ensures comfort for the entire procedure. Once the mouth is completely numb, the dentist creates an access point through the gums and inserts the dental implant into the bone. The gum tissue is closed over the implant to protect it while it heals. This procedure can take one to two hours for each implant.
It takes several months for the dental implants to integrate fully into the surrounding bone. Months after the initial procedure, the patient comes back to the office for an evaluation. X-rays or other imaging show the dentist how much osseointegration has occurred and how stable the implant is. When the implant is stable enough to remain in a fixed position, an abutment is placed over the top portion of the post, and gum tissue is closed around it. The abutment is a connector piece that fixes the artificial tooth to the implant post. After the gums have healed, the new artificial tooth, bridge, or denture can be set into place over the implant or implants.
What Type Of Anesthesia Will Be Used?
The dental implant procedure is performed using the same local anesthetic that numbs the mouth when you get a filling. The generous use of the anesthetic medication blocks pain signals, keeping you comfortable for the duration of your procedure.
Can The Implant & Crown Be Placed At The Same Time?
Every case has unique parameters that are discussed during our consultation. There may be situations in which a crown or temporary may be immediately placed over the implant. We understand the importance of having a pleasing, functional smile, and work to provide that to our patients as quickly as possible.
Common side effects that may occur during dental implant recovery include swelling on the face near the surgical site. This may improve with medication and the application of an ice pack to the cheek. A slight fever may develop, but should not exceed 101.5. If body temperature rises beyond this, contact the dental office. During the first 24 hours after treatment, nausea or dizziness may occur. This can result from medication or from swallowing a small amount of blood during the procedure. These side effects go away without treatment.
Generally, patients who undergo minor dental implant treatment may be back to work in one to two days. Patients whose procedures involve bone grafting or multiple dental implants may need a week or two to return to normal activities. During recovery, it is imperative to practice good oral hygiene and to follow all post-treatment care instructions provided by the office.
Do Dental Implants Look & Feel Like Real Teeth?
Dental implants feel like real teeth because the implant post becomes encased by the natural bone tissue of the jaw. When you chew, your teeth feel no different than they would if tethered by your natural roots. Dental implants look like real teeth because the entire dental implant post is situated beneath the gums. There are no artificial "gums" made of resin or acrylic, just your natural gum tissue surrounding the hidden dental implant. The appearance of your new tooth or teeth can closely resemble natural enamel in its translucency, shade, gradient, and sheen. We go over the finer details of appearance during our visit in which you choose the material to be used in the fabrication of your crown, bridge, or dentures.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
At this time, the cost of the dental implant procedure may not qualify for coverage. However, your insurance provider may cover part of the restoration process, such as the crown, bridge, or denture that will replace missing teeth. For the most up-to-date and detailed coverage information, we suggest that you contact your dental insurance company directly for an outline of your policy.
How Long Is The Recovery Period?
Recovery from the dental implant procedure is generally short and simple. The process is influenced by a few factors, though, including the location and number of implants. Aftercare also contributes to the healing process. Initially, recovery focuses on supporting the gums as they heal from the tiny incision. For the first 24 hours after treatment, the gums may be soothed by warm salt-water rinses. After 24 hours, regular, gentle oral care may resume. It is common for the gums to feel tender and for the jaw to feel sore after dental implant treatment. These effects may be alleviated with a prescription or over-the-counter medication, taken as directed. Usually, post-surgical pain resolves in one to two days. More extensive procedures, such as those that involve multiple implants and bone grafting, may require up to 10 days of pain relief.
What to Expect During Dental Implant Procedure
There are several steps involved in the dental implant restoration process. The first is a full evaluation with a qualified dentist. This evaluation generally includes a dental examination, gum examination, and dental x-rays. Other specialists, such as a periodontist, may be involved in preparing the mouth for dental implants if there is infection, gum disease, or other conditions.
Depending on the situation, the dentist may schedule tooth extraction to support the best outcome from treatment. Some patients require bone grafting to build up the jawbone. Without sufficient bone structure, there is a risk of implant failure.
The dental implant procedure is performed using local anesthesia. To place the implant, the dentist makes a tiny cut in the gums. The implant post is inserted into the bone. The gum tissue is then replaced over the implant to protect it through its integration phase.
After some time, the implant is uncovered and the abutment is connected. The abutment secures the crown or other restoration to the implant. This minor procedure involves local anesthesia. Patients feel only a little pressure.
The final step is to affix the restoration to the abutment. This may be done at the same time the abutment is inserted or a few weeks later. Once the restoration is in place, the smile is restored to its natural appearance and functionality.
How Long Is The Dental Implant Procedure?
It may take less than an hour to insert a single dental implant. More complex cases involving multiple implant posts may take a few hours. Your dentist will discuss how long you should expect to be in the office on the day of your procedure.
What to Expect After The Dental Implant Procedure
After the procedure, you will feel like you never lost your teeth as there is no discomfort, pain or misaligned bite. Nothing left but a natural, attractive and reassuring smile!
Dental implant patients are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life without embarrassment.
Are Dental Implants Permanent?
Dental implants are designed to last indefinitely. Complications rarely occur. Studies indicate that the average lifespan of a dental implant is at least 25 years. Proper care is essential to long-term dental implant function. After treatment, implants are influenced by your general health and lifestyle and how well you take care of your teeth and gums. Even when all natural teeth are replaced, oral care is crucial to ongoing gum health.
The Potential Risks of Dental Implants
Dental implant treatment is similar to any surgical procedure, so has some risks. These are minor and rarely occur. However, patients should understand that there is a chance of:
- Infection around the implant
- Implant rejection or failure
- Injury to the jaw, blood vessels, or surrounding teeth
- Injury to the sinus cavity from implants placed in the upper jaw
The risks associated with dental implant treatment can be reduced when an experienced dentist performs the procedure. Patients also decrease risks by following pre- and post-op care instructions.
Choose Soft-Touch Dentistry for Your Implant Treatment
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry could be the choice for you, here’s what we offer at Soft-Touch Dentistry:
A Comprehensive, No-Cost, No Obligation Cosmetic Dentistry Exam. This Exam Normally Costs $180, And Is Totally FREE! The Exam Includes The Following Services:
- A full mouth review of your teeth
- Provide you with an assessment and options.
- Will examine any recent X-Rays that you bring in.
- The health of your gums will be examined
During the exam, your specific concerns, desires and considerations will be addressed by your doctor. We can then make the proper recommendations for you, so you can make an educated decision whether implants are right for you.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation with Dr. Bidabadi!
Don’t hesitate any longer. You’ve spent enough years with a missing tooth in your smile or a wired partial and in discomfort. Now is the time to regain your smile and enjoy a resurgence of your confidence, enthusiasm and happiness! Schedule an appointment today by visiting our contact page. You can also dial 617.782.9250 for our Brighton office, or 617.332.8146 Newton office. Our practice looks forward to serving you!
