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Dental implants have been in use for more than 40 years in some fashion.  Actually implants have been placed well before the 1970's, but the design and material improvements have brought on significant acceptance since the 1990's.

Here are a few facts you need to know if you are considering implants:

  • Most dental implants are made of a titanium alloy
  • Implants are very compatible with the body - the body does not react to the material in a bad way
  • Your restorative dentist is the chief player in the implant treatment process - he or she will create your traement plan that we will follow.
  • Many implants will require bone grafting before or during placement because the bone usually deteriorates before patients decide to have implants placed
  • The best time to place an implant is three to four months after tooth extraction
  • Implants need time to heal before they are functioned - Upper jaw 6 months - Lower jaw 4 months
  • Healing times can be shortened, but it may compromise the outcome
  • Implants can last for many years - Some implants have been in place over 30 years
  • Implants are easier to care for that bridges
  • Implant restorations generally cost more than bridges
  • Success rates vary, but the lower jaw success rate is ~98% and upper jaw success rate can be as low as 85%
  • Success is defined as "Functional restoration in place with no sign of disease for 5 years or more."
  • Implants MUST receive care - gum disease is the biggest enemy of implants

If you wish to have implants placed, here is a good treatment order to follow:

  1. See your dentist for a treatment plan - discuss other treatment options
  2. Contact our office for a screening exam - Bring a referral form with you from your dentist
  3. Receive an examination by Dr. McCurdy or Dr. Ellis, who will discuss options with you
  4. Discuss the cost with our staff.
  5. Return for Study Model Impressions
  6. Appoint with the doctor for a second session to discuss your treatment
  7. Have your procedure performed
  8. Post-operative visits vary, but usually they occur weekly until healing has occurred
  9. After 4 months on the lower and/or 6 months on the upper - Phase II procedure performed to expose the implant
  10. 3-4 weeks later see your general dentist to finish the restorative process.