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DENTAL IMPLANT - FAQ's Click on a link below to read about each topic. Click the  to return to the top of the page.What is a dental implant? What does an implant replace? How does an implant give you a new tooth? What are the Benefits of dental implants? What's involved in placing implants? How do I take care of my implants? How much do implants cost? How long do Implants last? Does implant surgery hurt? Why Dr. Gates uses Straumann implants? What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small screw made of titanium -- a metal that the body easily accepts. The dental implant is inserted into the bone of the jaw, and over time the jawbone integrates with the implant surface, firmly anchoring it in place.
Under normal conditions, the healing process can take as little as 6 weeks. After this time, a crown, bridge, or denture is secured to the implant. We generally approach implants very conservatively, waiting a number of months for healing to take place in the bone before putting a crown in place. However, certain ideal situations lend themselves to placing the crown after a much shorter period of time. What does an implant replace? ONE TOOTH: This is the most common situation to place an implant, because it replaces a single missing tooth, and avoids the need for a bridge. The cost is similar to that of a bridge, but allows a tooth without involving the neighboring teeth.  SEVERAL TEETH: Most people would not love to have a partial denture if it can be avoided. Implants in this situation allows you to avoid a partial denture.  ALL THE TEETH WITH A BRIDGE ALL TEETH WITH A DENTURE: Implants can also be used to support full dentures. This is often the best situation for someone who already has a denture, and the denture has been a problem. Patients with lots of bone, or ridges of bone on the roof of the mouth usually have a denture that is very stable, and may have less need for implants. Patients with less bone often experience a loose denture, and implants are a huge benefit for these patients.
How does an implant give you a new tooth?With implant treatment, the dental implant replaces the lost tooth root and provides a stable foundation for the replacement tooth, thus eliminating the need to grind down healthy neighboring teeth, such as with a bridge.   
What are the Benefits of dental implants?
What's involved in placing implants?Because traditional methods of tooth replacement, such as crowns, bridges, partials, and dentures, have disadvantages in terms of appearance and function, dental implants are considered by many dentists, including our office, as the preferred method of tooth replacement. When you come in for a consultation, we will show you some video clips demonstrating the various procedures for placing implants. We’ll decide which solution is the best for your situation. Example: Replacement of one tooth.  1. Planning your Case:The first step in the treatment sequence is careful planning, which begins with a thorough examination of your individual oral situation. Through X-rays and models of your mouth, Dr. Gates will determine the most suitable treatment plan for your situation.  2. Implant placement – The Surgical StepThe next step is placing the implant in the jaw. This procedure is usually performed right in our office under local anesthesia. Once the implant is placed, it is left to heal for three to four months. But, healthy bone can sometimes form a strong bond with the implant in as little as 6 weeks.  3. Replacement teeth – Placing your CrownWhen the healing period is complete, the implant provides a solid foundation for attaching your replacement tooth.
How do I take care of my implants?Just like natural teeth, implants require regular check-ups and conscientious oral hygiene. Much of the success of dental implant treatment depends on keeping your new teeth clean and plaque-free. Ask our staff about home care kits or other cleaning devices, that can work best for you. At your check-up appointments, our hygienists will evaluate the success of your home care. With appropriate care, you are helping to maintain the long-term success of your implants.
How much do implants cost?Since each patient has different needs and priorities, dental implant treatments and the corresponding costs differ as well. During your consultation, we’ll examine your mouth, check your bone, take measurements, and determine the cost. All this will be discussed before you leave, or before you schedule an appointment. Some of the factors that influence the costs are:
How long do Implants last?Dr. Gates usually chooses Straumann implants, whose long-term studies confirm a success rate of over 95% after 10 years. Dr. Gates has been placing implants since 1998. Careful treatment planning, proper implant placement, regular follow-ups with our dental office, and good oral hygiene are all significant factors that influence the long-term success of your implant.
Does implant surgery hurt?No. Implant surgery is done with anesthetic, so you won’t feel the procedure at all. We give you a prescription for a sedative before you arrive, so you’ll be very comfortable during the procedure. Some of our patients doze during the procedure, and others simply feel relaxed. Most implant surgeries last less than an hour. Since dental implants are usually inserted under local anesthesia, you should not feel anything during the procedure. We also give you a prescription in case you have any discomfort during the healing.
Why Dr. Gates uses Straumann implants?
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