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Who does implant dentistry?

Only suitably trained and experienced dentists should be involved with implant dentistry. Implants involve two phases of treatment, placement of the implant(s) and placement of the crown(s) or restoration(s). Some dentists feel they can offer better solutions for you by using the different expertise of other team members, e.g. performing the surgery or the restoration. Other practitioners feel that performing both the surgery and the restoration within one office is optimal for many patients. At The Smile Institute, we perform every aspect of implant dentistry and combine it with the benefits of Sleep Dentistry (Medically Administered Intravenous Sedation) to maximise patient comfort.

What exactly are dental implants and what can they do for you?

Implants are substitutes for teeth and they are today's best alternative to your natural teeth. They offer you a permanent or secure solution for replacing one or more teeth. They are made of biocompatible materials, just the same as hip implants or similar orthopaedic devices, and function as anchors or support for traditional forms of dentistry, such as crowns, bridges or dentures. Many of our patients will tell you that implants have changed not only their smiles, their overall appearance but also even their lives! There are numerous other reasons to choose dental implants:

• Esthetically, they support teeth that look like real teeth. Functionally, dental implants feel and act like real teeth.
• With implants, you can eat and chew again without pain or irritation. Foods that were forbidden are now back in the diet.
• Implants eliminate the need for distasteful adhesives. There is no longer a need to use "glue" when your prosthesis is anchored to implants.
• Implants can actually improve the taste of food. With less plastic covering the roof of your mouth, you can enjoy natural flavours and sensations again.
• Lastly, implants can help maintain your bone structure and support your facial tissues. They can reduce or eliminate bone atrophy, which causes "shrinkage" or facial cosmetic changes.

Are implants successful?

Implants, as we know them today, have been in existence for at least twenty-five years. For the last ten years, however, success rates at many treatment centres are consistently over 95% with proper personal and professional care. Few forms of medical, orthopaedic or dental treatment have such high success rates.

What is the procedure like?

There are actually two phases to implant dentistry:

Phase 1:
Using very accurate surgical techniques, an incision is made in the gum tissues and implants are placed into dimensionally controlled sites (depth and width) in the jawbone. The gum tissues are then closed and the healing phase begins. This may take anywhere from 3-6 months to ensure a strong base.

Phase 2:
Creating and fixing the new tooth or teeth to the implant structure constitutes the second and final phase. Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth or your dentures.

Are they expensive?

Initially, most patients feel that dental implants are expensive when compared to general dental procedures. However, they represent a more permanent and natural solution than complete dentures and partials. Thus, there is a greater initial investment. They should last for years, even a lifetime particularly when performed by an experienced practitioner. Independent surveys commissioned by international implant associations show that patients feel that the investment was worth every cent and would do it again!

How much do they cost?

Each case is different. Cost is a function of your particular needs based on age, quality and quantity of bone in the implant site and the nature of the final structure required to replace the missing tooth or teeth. After a complete examination, we will able to more specifically determine your dental needs and the best treatment alternative(s) for you. As a guide however, as at January 2004 the following fees apply:

Single tooth replacement: approximately $2,500 - $7,000
Connecting a complete denture to implant supports: $3,500 - $18,500
Full reconstruction of dentition in one jaw: $35,000 - $60,000
Complete reconstruction of entire dentition: $70,000 - $120,000

Does it hurt?

Usually, discomfort is not a problem. In fact, many have said that having a tooth pulled was more painful! For the placement of an implant(s), we will use one of many anaesthetic regimens so there won't be any discomfort and when you leave the office, you will be given appropriate medications. Feel free to ask us for contact numbers of other patients who have had implants so that you can ask them personally how they felt after implant therapy. We are available to you at all times to make sure that you are comfortable.

What benefits can I really expect?

• Eat whatever you like! Implants improve your health with the ability to chew a wider variety of foods.
• Smile with confidence. Discoloured or missing teeth ruin your appearance. Implant supported restorations help increase your self-esteem.
• Implants increase the retention and stability of your teeth.
• Improve your external facial structure and decrease the likelihood of continued bone loss.

How long will it take?

Recent advances in implant systems have reduced the time for initial implant procedures. Treatment for the simple cases could take anywhere from 2-4 weeks and in more complex cases 4-8 months, based on where the implants are placed and the type of restoration you desire.

Will I be without teeth?

You will never be without teeth and we will make sure that in the interim period, you look and feel very natural.

Am I too old?

Implant patients can be in their late teens or be mature adults in their seventies and eighties. Good health and adequate bone are the most critical factors in evaluating implant candidates. Even if health issues exist, with over 20 years of extensive experience, by taking the right precautions, nearly every patient is able to receive the benefits of Modern Implant Dentistry in our practice.

Is one implant system better than the others?

No. There are many FDA approved implant systems available for your benefit.

What will it feel like when it is done?

Once the entire procedure is complete and the final restorations placed, they will actually feel or function like your natural teeth!

How do I take care of my implants?

Normal routine home care and professional cleaning visits are required. It is important to know that every 6-12 months, you will need to have a routine cleaning and re-care treatment and evaluation. An individualized program will be designed for you to optimally care for your new teeth.

Are there alternatives?

After thoroughly examining your needs we will offer you all reasonable alternatives so that we may make a decision together as to what is best for you.

When can I get started?

As soon as we have all the necessary information and made the necessary arrangements for the team members to assist we can commence at the first available appointment, usually within 4-6 weeks.

Can any licensed dentist(s) legally perform implant surgery or restoration?

Yes. However, education and experience are critical! Before choosing our practice, please feel free to ask any other dentist or dental specialist any questions you may have about his or her training in implant therapy and in-office implant experience.

Is it safe to have dental implant surgery performed outside the hospital, in an office-based facility?

Most cases around the world are done this way with complete safety. In our practice, we regularly perform procedures under local anaesthetic or in conjunction with medically administered intravenous sedation without any ill-effects on our patients.

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