How much do you know about dental implants? Which of the following statements are true:
- A dental implant can replace a missing tooth without involving adjacent teeth.
- Dental implants can replace two or more missing teeth.
- Dental implants help to preserve the jaw bone.
- Dental implant restorations are esthetic and very comfortable.
- Dental implant technology has improved dramatically in the last decade.
The answer: ALL of the statements are true!
Brush up on your Dental Implant knowledge. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Dental Implants from Philadelphia dentist Dr. Pamela G Doray:
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dr. Doray offers many types of dental implant systems and prices vary widely depending on the complexity of the case as well as the materials selected. You can expect dental implants to be in the neighborhood of $5000-$7000 per tooth.
Dr. Doray will perform a comprehensive consultation to evaluate your specific situation and provide you with a detailed treatment plan that includes associated costs. We offer several flexible payment options for dental implants including interest free financing through Care Credit.
Why is a dental implant often the ideal choice for replacing a missing tooth?
A dental implant is a single tooth solution for a single tooth problem. While a dental bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support, a dental implant can be placed without affecting adjacent teeth.
Because a dental implant is an actual root replacement, it helps to preserve bone which would otherwise be resorbed.
Dental implants can also be used to replace multiple missing teeth by supporting a permanent bridge or denture. Dr. Doray will evaluate your condition, assessing the quality and quantity of bone as well as facial anatomy to determine how many dental implants will need to be placed.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The process for dental implants ranges from one person to another, but generally takes three to six months from extraction/implantation through final restoration.
How does a dental implant work?
A dental implant is made up of three different components:
Implant – The actual implant is a replacement tooth root, most commonly made of titanium. You may be familiar with the concept of hip, knee or other joint replacements and a dental implant is similar in that it replaces the root which is the support structure for the tooth.
Abutment – An abutment attaches to the implant to connect the dental crown. This is placed on the implant after the implant has integrated into the bone.
Crown – The dental crown functions as the replacement tooth. This can be made from a variety of materials depending on the location of the tooth in the mouth and the aesthetic goals of the patient. Dr. Doray uses a variety of tooth like materials that provide a very natural looking restoration.
Will it hurt?
The implantation is actually a very gentle procedure because working on bone is actually easier than working on teeth. It is a totally pain-free experience and you will be able to return to work immediately following the procedure. It is normal to experience mild soreness after the anesthesia wears off. There will be little or no pain as the dental implant heals and integrates to the bone.
Will I be missing a tooth during the treatment?
Many patients are concerned about the appearance of a missing tooth during treatment, especially those who are missing teeth in the front of the mouth. Dr. Doray offers many options for temporary tooth replacement in the extraction site during the implantation and integration process.
Dr. Doray will evaluate your condition to determine the best options for your particular dental situation. In some cases, we can provide an ‘immediate loaded’ implant, where a temporary crown is placed at the same time as the implant.
Why Choose Dr. Doray
Dr. Pamela G Doray has been restoring dental implants in Philadelphia since 1986. In addition to her extensive clinical experience with dental implants, she is also an educator with Biomet 3i, the third largest dental implant company in the world. This distinction allows her to teach and mentor dentists who are learning to provide implant care. Dr. Doray has been involved in pilot studies utilizing the latest digital technology in dental implant treatment, and is pleased to offer state-of-the-art implant treatment to her patients.
If you, or someone you know, might benefit from dental implant treatment, or if you would like more information on dental implants, please call Dr. Doray at (215) 395-6076 or request an appointment online.