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.

I was thinking about getting dental implants, but I don't have missing teeth.  I would like the teeth to be pulled, and then I would like the implants.  Is that possible?  Also, I would like three teeth done, both k-9's and one of the front two. (I apologize, I don't know the technical names).  I would like to know the estimated cost of all that.

Dr. Festa:  Healthy natural teeth are always preferred over any other dental alternative.  If, however, your remaining teeth are unhealthy and can not be saved implants would be an excellent substitute for natural teeth.  It would be impossible to estimate the cost of such procedures without first examining the condition of your teeth and your overall health.  Make an appointment for a free consultation at our office.  203-966-9696

Are there any side effects of dental implants? What type of metal is used in the implant?  Yogen

Dr Festa: Depending on the doctor who places the implants,  the side effects of the implant surgery are generally mild and short lasting.  A little soreness at the surgurical site should be expected.  The metal used in most implants today is made up of mostly titanium.  The materials used are very bio-compatible and become part of your jaw bone.  Call today for a  free consultation at 203-966-9696.

Good day! I'm planning to have full upper denture implants and I would like to know around how much it is going to cost me.  Could you please give a rough estimate?  Thanks and more power.

Dr. Holderbaum: Ahmad, How many implants? Are you planning to have a habitual bite on physiologic bite. No way to estimate cost without a consultation.

I need to have an upper front tooth extracted and an implant put in.  Roughly how much could this cost me?

Dr. Atcha: A single tooth implant which includes implant placement (surgical) aspect and restorative (placing a crown on top of the implant) can cost someone anywhere from $3000.00 - $5000.00.