Dental Implant FAQs

What is a dental implant?                                     Dental Implant Video

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 biocompatible 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.

Why dental implants?

There are a number of reasons why you should consider a dental implant:

Without the root structure of a natural tooth present, the jawbone can shrink. This shrinkage will make your face look older than it is.
There are no loose parts to worry about losing. The dental implant is stable and comfortable. No adjustment is needed after placement. Normally, it will serve its owner for life.

Who places the dental implants?

Dr. Branca performs all of the dental implant surgeries in his office.  He and his surgical team will provide a relaxed and pain-free surgical experience.  

 

How much do dental implants cost?

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 consultation appointment with Dr. Branca so that he can examine your mouth and develop a specific treatment plan that is right for you.

Who is a Candidate?

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. Dr. Branca will work in conjunction with your restorative dentist to develop the proper treatment plan solution for you.

Is old age a problem?

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.

What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a dental bridge?

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 needed 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.

Will my new teeth look natural?

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.

Will I be able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural teeth?

Yes. Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth.

How much time is required for a dental implant placement?

Today's modern surgical techniques are efficient and require minimal chair time.  All surgeries are performed in our relaxed office setting. Treatment plans must consider many factors such as are there teeth that need to be removed or implant sites that need to be developed with bone grafts.    These factors will also determine the total number of visits required throughout the treatment period. Most treatment plans can be achieved in just 1 -2 surgeries and require an average of 3-4 months healing time before the dental implants can be restored by your restorative dentist.   During the healing period, your restorative dentist can fabricate a temporary prosthesis until the permanent crown or denture is ready to be put in place.

Is the treatment painful?

With any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort then placing several. Local anesthesia, nitrous oxide gas, and iv 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.  Most patients require 3-4 days following surgery for discomfort and swelling to dissipate. Dr. Branca will prescribe appropriate pain medication following surgery

How will I care for my dental implants?

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.

104 Tremont Street      |    Suite 5    |    Duxbury, MA 02332    |    Call 781-934-8101
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