Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To better educate our patients on implant dentistry and their options for replacing missing teeth, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about tooth implants. If you do not see the answer to your question here, please feel free to contact our office for more information.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Anyone in good overall health interested in replacing missing teeth with a permanent, natural-looking solution is a good candidate for dental implants. Individuals who have been missing teeth or wearing dentures for a long time may require bone grafting to augment their jawbone before implants are placed.

Some people are not good candidates, including those with uncontrolled diabetes, certain immune diseases, active cancers, and blood clotting disorders.

Who should place my dental implant?

Dental implant surgery is a complex, invasive procedure that requires precision, dexterity, and experience. It should be performed by someone who specializes in this type of surgery. Dr. Goettisheim is a periodontist who specializes in implant dentistry. He has been placing implants for over 30 years and is a member of the Academy of Osseointegration.

Will one doctor do everything?

Usually, Dr. Goettisheim places the implant(s) and performs other necessary surgical procedures—your restorative dentist provides the temporary and permanent replacement teeth. Both doctors are involved in planning your dental treatment. Also, depending upon various factors, different dental specialists may help with your dental care.

How much does all of this cost?

The cost of dental implants in Mt. Kisco, NY varies depending on many factors, including the type of implant, the number needed, the complexity of the surgery, the kind of restorations used, and more.

Before treatment begins, every effort will be made to give you an accurate estimate of all the expenses involved in placing the implants and making your replacement teeth. In many cases, there is an initial charge for the diagnostic work-up, including study models, x-rays, and the fabrication of a surgical template to ensure the best possible result. In addition, you will be charged for the abutment or support post(s), plus the crown, dentures, or anything else that will be placed over the implants, including temporary restorations. Periodic maintenance such as hygiene visits, tissue conditioners, denture relines, and other repairs will also incur additional charges.

When different doctors are involved in your treatment, you will be charged separately for their services. After we evaluate your insurance coverage or other third-party payments, we will try to assist you in estimating your actual payments. Also, you must consider your financial commitment to each treatment option, as some insurance companies provide limited or no coverage.

Does insurance cover dental implants?

It depends on your insurance provider and coverage limits. While some dental insurance does not cover implants, others provide partial coverage or cover them if medically necessary. We recommend contacting your insurance carrier to determine your coverage limits before scheduling dental implant surgery.

What happens during the dental implant procedure?

Dr. Goettisheim makes an incision into the gums to expose the jawbone and drills a small hole in the bone. He then places the tooth implant in the tooth socket at a precise angle to take advantage of the bone structure, maximizing stability and support. The gums are then sutured around it, allowing room for the placement of a temporary prosthetic. At the same time, the implants fuse with the jawbone. Please visit our Dental Implants page for more information on the dental implant procedure.

Are dental implants painful?

Not during implant placement, as we numb the area with a local anesthetic. You will be given nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or general anesthesia (if needed) to relax you during the procedure. During the first few days after surgery, you will experience mild to moderate discomfort that can usually be controlled with over-the-counter medication and ice packs. Most patients are surprised by how little pain they feel. Within a week, you should feel as good as new.

Will I be given anesthesia for the procedure?

Dr. Goettisheim offers his patients nitrous oxide, oral sedation or general anesthesia (if needed) for their comfort when replacing missing teeth.

How long does it take to heal after receiving dental implants?

Recovery time varies from patient to patient. We recommend taking three days off work to ensure you have plenty of time to rest and recover at home. Most people have resumed their daily activities without pain within a week.

Can dental implants fail?

As with any body implant, tooth implants can fail, although it is rare. The failure rate for dental implants is less than 5%. Reasons for implant failure include periodontal disease, failed osseointegration (fusion with the jawbone), misalignment of the implant, foreign body rejection, allergic reaction to the metal, and trauma to the area.

What can I use for teeth while the implants heal?

Many options are available, and they are tailored to your specific requirements. If you need a replacement tooth while the implants are healing, temporary removable teeth or a temporary bridge can be made. If all of your teeth are missing, we can usually modify your present complete denture or make you a new temporary denture. If you would prefer non-removable teeth during the healing phase, temporary transitional implants usually can be placed along with the permanent implants, and temporary teeth may be made and inserted the same day. Depending on your particular situation, some implants can be placed and “loaded” immediately. This means a temporary replacement tooth can be placed on, or shortly after, the day the implant is placed.

How long will the implants last?

Implants usually last a long time. Long-term studies (more than 30 years) show an 80 to 90 percent success rate when patients are missing all of their teeth. For patients missing one or several teeth, recent studies show a success rate of greater than 95 percent, which compares favorably with other areas in the body that receive implant replacement (such as hips or knees). However, if one of your dental implants either doesn’t heal properly or loosens after a period of time, you may need to have it removed. After the site heals (or occasionally at the time of removal), another implant can usually be placed.

When are the replacement teeth attached to the implant?

The replacement teeth are usually attached to the implant when adequate healing has occurred, and your jaw bone is firmly fused to the implant. Depending on various factors, it may be possible to begin this phase of your treatment immediately or shortly after implant placement. We will review the most appropriate treatment sequence and timing for your particular situation.

The dental work required to complete your treatment is complex. Most of the work involves actually making the new teeth before they are placed. Your appointments are considered more comfortable and more pleasant than previous methods of tooth replacement. Frequently, this process can be performed without local anesthesia.

The number of appointments and the amount of time required for each appointment is different for each patient. No two cases are exactly the same, and regardless of the number of teeth replaced, the work must be completed with great precision and attention to detail. If you are having only a few teeth replaced, as few as three short appointments may be required. We will need time between appointments to complete the necessary lab work to make your replacement teeth. It is most beneficial that you keep all of your scheduled appointments.

In general, once your implants are placed, your tooth replacement treatment will be completed in 3 to 12 months. However, it is difficult to give you a specific timeframe for completion until after the implants are ready for restoration.

How do I clean my new teeth?

As with natural teeth, it is important that you clean implant-supported restorations regularly with toothbrushes, floss, and any other recommended aids. You should also visit your dental professional several times each year for hygiene and maintenance. As with regular dentures and other tooth replacements, your implants and their associated components are subject to wear and tear and eventually will need repair, including clip replacement, relines, screw tightening, and other adjustments.