Ask the Dental Implant Dentist

Question: What is the average cost of a dental implant (lower)?

Dr. Samuels: As a general rule, the cost for a single dental implant with the post and crown is about $4000. Of course there are many types of implants and many variables as to the condition of the bone, etc. that could require further treatment. In addition, the part of the country you are seeking treatment could also influence the cost. I've seen implants for a little as $2800 and as much as $5500.

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  Question: Are there any side effects to dental implants?

Dr. Atcha: There are no side effects to dental implants. They are safe and will take to your body very well.

  Question: What are advantages and disadvantages of Dental Implants over Dentures?

Dr. Atcha:  Dental Implants hold your jaw bone from shrinking. Dentures do not. Dental implants are  a permanent solution to missing teeth, Dentures are not. Dental implants look and feel and function like natural teeth Dentures will not. There is no advantage of having a denture only disadvantages.

Question: I was diagnosed with colon cancer a little over a year ago and was treated with Xeloda and my last treatment was in February '08. I am cancer free but continue to do cat scans every 6 months for the next four years. Having said that, do I qualify for upper dental implants?
AW

Dr. Atcha: Yes, you are a candidate for dental implants. I am glad your condidion is better now. If you have good bone and are in excellent health otherwise there are no reasons for you not to go with a dental implant treatment. However when choosing an implant dentist, please be sure to find out their level of training and how much experience they have with dental implants. Always consult with your physician when seeking extensive dental care and get a medical clearance.

If a dentist recommends an implant over a bridge, can the patient have any success having their insurance then pick it up?

Matt

Dr. Kravitz: Yes, absolutely. Many insurance plans are now paying for implants.

I just had two teeth come loose from their attachment to the two roots (right front and the next incisor). The root systems seem to be good-how would the cost of implants compare to partial dentures?

Edward, FL

Dr. Hadgis: As compared to partial dentures, it is considerably more costly. However, Implants are much more comfortable and feel more like natural teeth. As opposed to feeling more bulky, decreased function, and the inability to properly taste foods with a partial denture.

I have diabetes and i am missing two front teeth on the bottom row .I cannot wear any parcials that will fit. So will implants work?

Christine, SC

Dr. Hadgis: If the diabetes is under control, it should not be a problem. Bone grafts will be necessary prior to Implant placement, if there is inadequate bone width, which is common.

Question: What if you have bad sinus problems?

Dr. Guss: Implants placed in the mandibular or lower jaw, can usually be placed safely in patients with a history of sinus problems. Regarding implants to be placed in the upper jaw or maxilla: It is best to get treatment of sinus problems and a medical clearance from an ENT (ear nose and throat) doctor and then discuss the implant treatment with your dentist.

My son (17) is missing tooth #20. We've gotten 2 opinions on implants. One said graft, another said graft could be done with something called "Bone in a Jar", or that is how she put it. The bone is high enough but is too thin.  I don't understand the "Bone in a Jar" and would like additional opinion. Thank you, Miri Frantz

Dr. Preziosi: The difference between a bone graft from a donor site of the patient and placing freeze dried bone is that the bone graft is living bone that will continue to grow once it establishes a new blood supply in the recipient site. While the freeze dried bone only acts a scaffolding to induce new bone formation around it.  Both techniques are viable options and which is more appropriate depends on a number of variables such as the clinical situation, health of the patient, experience of the surgeon with the different treatments, healing time requirements and so on.  If the restorative dentist does not do these types of surgeries it is usually best to go to the surgeon that the restorative dentist works most closely with because this type of treatment is a group effort and team continuity and communication are the most key aspects of successful treatment.

First: How much on average can one expect to pay for a complete dental implant including all steps and office visits?

Dr. Preziosi: Fees vary from area to area and doctor to doctor there is no way to quote anyone a fee.

Second: Why is a post needed if the implant is already fused to bone---seems redundant.

Dr. Preziosi: Implants are a three part restoration consisting of the fixture, the part that integrates with the bone, the abutment (or post), which attaches to the fixture and then the final restoration, and the final restoration. The reason the abutments are separate parts are to increase their flexibility, not every situation will require the same size, shape and material or abutment.

Third: What is the implant made of?

Dr. Preziosi: The fixture that integrates with the bone is titanium. The other parts vary to best fit the situation.