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The following is a sample of the questions we are most commonly asked. If you have a query, which is not answered below, please contact us for
further details.
Q. What is a dental implant?
A. An artificial tooth root implanted in the jawbone during a minor operation. The implant fuses to the underlying bone in a process known as oseointegration". This generally takes approximately six months.
Q. What is its use?
A. Implants can be used to support or attach dental crowns or bridges
so patients can chew confidently with "fixed teeth", or to provide
secure anchorage for dentures.
Q. Who can have dental implants?
A. Anyone who has lost or who is likely to lose a tooth or teeth can
be considered.
Q. Can I be too old for implants?
A. No, provided you are well enough to undergo a straightforward dental
procedure.
Q. Do all dentists provide this type of treatment?
A. No, those who do are likely to have invested heavily in training &
equipment.
Q. Is the treatment still experimental?
A. Absolutely not! Implant dentistry commands more research than all
other aspects of dentistry combined. All the major and reputable scientific
journals worldwide related to this field have published research data,
which proves the predictability, reliability, and high success rates available
to patients having this treatment.
Q. How long do implants last?
A. Modern implants have a proven "track record" of around 35
years. It is impossible to predict the outcome of a particular implant,
but it is hoped that your implants would last a lifetime.
Q. Do implants cause damage to the other teeth?
A. No, unlike conventional bridgework, which often necessitates "cutting"
healthy teeth, and removable dentures, which have also been shown to cause
deterioration, implants are placed independent of neighboring teeth.
Q. I lost my teeth a long time ago. Am I still suitable for this type
of treatment?
A. When teeth are lost, the supporting bone gradually deteriorates. Implants
slow or stop this deterioration. Many patients who lost their teeth a
long time ago can still receive implants without complication. However,
to minimize difficulties, you should seek advice as early as possible
following extraction.
Q. Is this kind of treatment expensive?
A. The treatment is sophisticated and state-of-the-art. The fee is therefore
generally greater than that associated with conventional treatment. The
predictability and long-term outcome of dental implants is second to none.
Q. How long does treatment take to complete?
A. Ordinarily several months from consultation to fitting of the final
restoration.
Source: www.Fedi.org
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