Fellow International Congress
of Oral Implantologists
FAQs
Understanding Implant Dentistry
The most commonly asked questions in implant dentistry are:
Will the procedure hurt?
Your comfort is our priority, and Dr. Partovi has extensive training in modern anesthesia. Most procedures are performed under local anesthetic, and patients feel no pain at all during the procedure. For those who feel anxious, or for some of our more detailed implant or bone grafting procedures, Dr. Partovi recommends IV sedation. With IV sedation, patients become very relaxed and often have no recollection of the procedure. Afterwards, Dr. Partovi will prescribe appropriate medication to manage any postoperative pain or swelling.
How long will implant therapy take?
That depends. Cases range from simple to very complex, so we can't give a specific timeline until you meet with Dr. Partovi. For most single-tooth replacements with a dental implant, Dr. Partovi will place the final restorations in about three to six months. For some of the more complex cases, the final restoration could take 12 to 15 months. Patients will always have an interim, or temporary, prosthesis until the implants are ready for the final restoration.
Dental implants take longer than conventional dentures or bridges in large part because of a process called osseointegration, which refers to the process whereby your bone grows into the micropores of the dental implant until the bone and implant actually fuse together, providing maximum stability for chewing forces. Even cases with longer treatment timelines occur in a short time when compared to the long-term (lifetime) satisfaction, comfort, and esthetics of dental implants.
How much will implants cost?
Many decisions for treatments in implant dentistry can depend on a patient's budget, financial arrangements, and dental plans, but we cannot develop an accurate cost estimate until Dr. Partovi meets you for a consultation. At this visit, we will assess your teeth and surrounding tissues, and then give you options so that you can decide what will work for your lifestyle. After we establish the type of treatment you have selected, Meghan, our treatment coordinator, can help you with financial arrangements. We always try to strike a balance between your budget, values, and expectations.
To some people, the cost of dental implants can be a disadvantage, as implants are generally more expensive than bridges or dentures. In many cases, dental implants may require a larger initial investment, but end up more cost effective in the long run. Bridges and dentures will need replacement, sometimes every three to five years. However, dental implants can usually last a lifetime.
When it comes to dental insurance, most plans choose to cover the cheapest alternative in dental treatment, which means they will usually cover a denture, not implants. Your carrier may cover certain portions in the dental implant process. Again, Meghan, our implant coordinator, can give an outline of your financial arrangement, including submitting claims to your dental plan to maximize their contribution.
For more information or to make an appointment, please call our office and ask for Meghan, our implant coordinator.
More FAQs about Implants
Is Dr. Partovi qualified?
Dr. Ben Partovi has the qualifications to place and restore dental implants. His training includes a fellowship at the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a master's degree at the Pacific Implant Institute. He also has completed over 300 hours of continuing education in the areas of implantology, bone grafting, implant crowns, and attached dentures. In addition, Dr. Partovi has advanced training in local anesthetic and IV sedation. He is a graduate of the Dawson Center, having studied occlusion and smile design.
Are implants successful?
Implants, as we know them today, have been in existence for at least 30 years. For the last 10 years, success rates at many treatment centers, including our own, are consistently over 95 percent with proper personal and professional care. Few forms of medical, orthopedic, or dental treatment have such high success rates.
Am I too old for implants?
No! Many patients feel that they are too old for dental implants. However, dental implants can greatly improve the quality of your life at any age. Many people find great value and comfort with improved chewing and a strong smile, no matter their age.
Are there any health benefits to having dental implants?
In addition to preserving your jawbone and facial structure, dental implants can break down foods far better than dentures and some bridges. Patients who have missing teeth often swallow their food without properly chewing and breaking the food down. This causes the digestive system to work harder to break down the food. The extra work can create a whole slew of digestive ailments, including ulcers, stomach upsets, and gall bladder attacks.
What is the dental implant procedure like?
Implant dentistry involves two phases:
Phase 1:
Using very accurate techniques, Dr. Partovi will surgically position the implants into dimensionally controlled sites in the jawbone. He then closes the gum tissues, and the healing phase begins, which may take anywhere from three to six months. During this time, the bone will actually grow into the micro pores of the implant in a process called osseointegration. At this time, the implant actually fuses or becomes one with the bone, ensuring a strong base for the new tooth that will be attached on top.
Phase 2:
During the final phase, Dr. Partovi will create and affix the new tooth, or teeth, to the implant structure. Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or your dentures.
Will I be without teeth?
Dr. Partovi will make sure that you receive some type of temporary teeth until the final restoration is complete.
Is one implant system better than the others?
No. Many FDA-approved implant systems are available for implant patients. Dr. Partovi predominately selects Nobel Biocare implants, as they have more published research than any other implant system.
What will implants feel like when the procedure is finished?
Once the entire process is complete, your dental implants will actually feel, look, and function like strong, natural teeth!
How do I take care of my implants?
Normal home care and professional cleaning visits will help you maintain your implants long-term. You will need to schedule a routine cleaning, re-care treatment, and evaluation every four to six months. Our team will design individualized programs to help patients optimally care for their new teeth.
