Dental Implants
Dental implants used to be something only a few people were prepared to have done. They were costly, required several appointments, and seemed like a ‘new or unproven’ procedure. Now, dental implants have become quite common place and that is for good reason. They are still costly – and still require several visits to the dental office – but they have proven over the past five decades, to have a very high success rate. Most statistics say there is about a 5-10% risk of failure, so if we do the math correctly, that means the success rate is about 90-95%! And thankfully many insurers are starting to cover, at least partially, the cost of an implant.
How Long Have Dental Implants Been Used?
The first titanium implant was placed in a human jaw in 1965 (check it out here)! However, ”implants date as far back as 4,000 years ago when bamboo pegs were carved in China and used to replace missing teeth. These were fixed onto the bone in the mouth. Around 2,000 years later, the Egyptians adopted a similar practice of carving precious metals and pegging them onto the jawbone.” So the technology isn’t really all that new – but has been improved upon since those early days!
What are the Risks of Dental Implants?
The biggest risk is that it fails, and you have spent quite a lot of time and money for not. Having said that, these are the most common risk factors that you and your dentist will discuss:
- Overall health of your mouth. If gum disease is present, there is a high chance of infection. Your mouth needs to be in good shape before starting the implant journey. Dental hygiene appointments are important both prior and forever afterwards.
- Smoking – restricts blood flow so healing is slow and bone may not integrate as well. Stopping even for a few weeks both before and after the placement can increase the chance of success.
- Jawbone density – healthy bone leads to a strongly held implant (just like hanging something into drywall. Hitting a stud will definitely increase stability.)
- Autoimmune conditions such as diabetes and arthritis – can hamper the speed or success of integrating into the bone.
- Medications – some may delay healing and integration times
- Experience of the doctor – while Dr Dodds has been placing implants since 2006, if he feels a specialist would do a better job, he will refer for the placement of the implant and he will complete the crown (tooth) portion.
Ready to Book?
The first step is to book a consultation appointment, or a complete exam and hygiene appointment if you are due. Dr Dodds at Downtown Dental will discuss your options and the factors listed above. If you are a good candidate to move ahead with a dental implant, our team will outline the appointments needed and how the financial process is broken down at each appointment. While the cost, about $5,000, is high, it is not all due at one time. If you have insurance, we will send an estimate to your insurer prior to starting so you are well aware of the financial obligation. We are here to help at every step of the way.
