Brock Satoris, DDS

Implant Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions

Serving the Las Vegas/Henderson, Nevada area

What are dental implants?

What are some benefits of implant dentistry?

Am I a candidate for implant dentistry?

How will my implant be placed?

Is there any way to replace a missing tooth other than a bridge?

Is there pain or discomfort involved?

How long does it take to have dental implants placed?

When can I return to work?

Will I ever be without my teeth?

How much do dental implants cost?

How long do dental implants last?

How often do I have to have my dental implants checked?

What are dental implants?
Dental Implants are substitute or replacement tooth roots. A tooth consists of a crown and a root. The crown is that part of the tooth which is visible in the mouth. The root is under the gum tissue, surrounded by the bone. The crown is supported by the root portion, which is attached to the bone. Implants are placed into the bone so that a prosthetic crown (the visible part of your tooth) can be firmly attached. State-of-the-art technology in implant dentistry makes it possible to provide replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth.

What are some benefits of dental implants?
Loss of natural teeth can dramatically alter your facial appearance and affect your attitude towards life. Missing teeth can lead to loss of self-esteem and embarrassment. Dental implants can help you regain your natural smile, improving your appearance and self- confidence. They can also increase your comfort by eliminating loose fitting complete and partial dentures. Dental implants acts to stop the deterioration in the jawbone, which occurs when the natural teeth are lost. Overall health is improved with the ability to eat virtually anything with ease, and self-confidence is renewed with the knowledge that appearance is natural once again.

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Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Are you missing one or more teeth? Are you lacking confidence because of your teeth or smile? Do you want natural- looking replacement teeth? Does wearing a denture restrict your ability to eat and smile comfortably? Dental implants can replace missing teeth for people of all ages, young and old. Nearly everyone is a candidate for dental implants, and there are very few medical conditions that would rule out dental implant treatment. As part of your treatment evaluation, your dental team will carefully review your medical and oral health and examine the condition of your teeth and gums, as well as the amount and quality of your jawbone. Specific x-rays and models will help your prosthodontist determine whether you are a dental implant candidate.

How will my implant be placed?
There are two different surgical procedures for dental implant placement. You should discuss with your prosthodontist which one is best for you. With a two step system, the implant is placed in the jawbone below the gum line, which is then surtured over and allowed to heal. After a healing process a second stage is necessary to open the gum so that the tooth can be replaced. With a one step or single-stage system only one surgical procedure is required. At the time of placement the top of the implant is level with the gums and remains visible. After an adequate healing period the tooth replacement phase can proceed without the need for a second surgical procedure. The healing phase ranges from six weeks to six months depending on each individual’s clinical requirements. In order to make your replacement tooth your prosthodontist will need to make x- rays, impressions, bite registration records and various fittings. As a result of these efforts and years of experience, your replacement tooth will blend beautifully with your existing teeth and function normally.

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Is there any way to replace a missing tooth other than a bridge?
Dental implants are one of the most common ways to get artificial teeth that look, feel, and function the same as your natural teeth. Dental implants are also used in order to attach full or partial dentures. Dental implants require surgery, and therefore can only be administered to patients who are in good health, have healthy gums, adequate bones to support the implant, as well as practicing good oral hygiene.

Is there pain or discomfort involved?
Most patients are happy to learn that there is little to no pain or discomfort associated with dental implants. Patients are under anesthesia or sedated when their dental implants are placed. They typically do not even remember the procedure.

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How long does it take to have dental implants placed?
The amount of time it will take to have dental implants placed depends on the individual. Some patient’s gums heal in a matter of days and they are able to have their implant completed within a week. Other patients may take longer and will have to wait for several weeks in order to achieve an optimal result. Unfortunately, there is no way for your dentist to tell how much healing time you will need until you have begun the process.

When can I return to work?
Most patients are able to return to work the very next day after having their implants placed.

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Will I ever be without my teeth?
This depends on the individual. Some patients choose to wear a temporary prosthesis, while others wait for the implants to be complete.

How much do dental implants cost?
The overall cost of dental implants will depends on several factors. Most importantly is the number of teeth being replaced, which will also be affected by the number of implants required to support the replacement teeth. In some cases, one implant may be able to support more than one replacement tooth. If you are interested in an estimate, contact us for a free consultation.

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How long do dental implants last?
The life of the dental implants varies with every patient. Typically, the life of your implants will last longer if you exercise good oral hygiene. This includes regular flossing and brushing of your implants. It is not uncommon for dental implants to last a lifetime if they are taken care of. However, if the implants are ignored or not regularly cared for, they may last just fifteen years.

How often do I have to have my dental implants checked?
It is suggested that you treat dental implants the same as your natural teeth and have them checked every three to six months. This checkup includes a thorough cleaning and examination by your dentist.

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If you would like to learn more about dental implants, contact us for a free consultation.