Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
WHAT IS A DENTAL IMPLANT?
An implant is a man-made replacement for natural roots of teeth. This allows Dr. Rothenberg to restore teeth, which we see in the mouth. The doctor you are working with, may select from several categories of dental implants This would depend on the information which he obtains from x-rays, models of your mouth, your specific needs, and general dental condition. The ultimate goal is to replace and restore missing teeth into better function without losing more bone.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Anyone who is missing one or more teeth. If one or a few teeth are missing, implants can be utilized in conjunction with crowns and bridges to replace those teeth. If all or most of your teeth are missing, then implants can be used as anchors for a full ach of teeth. If there is excessive bone loss, bone can be regenerated through various techniques. Consulting with Dr. Rothenberg, who is knowledgeable on these procedures, can help with determining these requirements.
HOW COMFORTABLE IS THE PROCESS / PROCEDURE?
As with any surgery, there may be some discomfort. The doctor to alleviate any discomfort uses proper medication, along with anesthetic and patient relaxation techniques. The majority of patients, report minimal to no discomforts the day after implants are placed.
HOW MUCH TIME DOES THE TREATMENT INVOLVE?
From initiation to completion of treatment can take from 4 to 9 months, and in some cases, longer. It should be understood that this procedure is advanced and can be a longer process than usual to assure its success. We will provide temporary teeth during this time frame. You will have teeth at all times, unless you elect to go without temporary teeth.
HOW MUCH DO DENTAL IMPLANTS COST?
The procedure may involve a significant investment. The majority of the fee is dictated by the design of the proposed treatment, which is based on the patient’s desires and needs. Fees can be determined after proper records, examinations, and evaluations have been completed. The fees at Implant Dentistry of the Northshore will be 30 to 40% less expensive than most practices because of our efficiency in these procedures for our patients. The majority of patients, after completing Dental Implant treatment, indicated that is was worth the investment and that they would do it again.
IS THERE A CHANCE OF FAILURE?
Dental implants are made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material, and actually attaches to the surrounding bone and becomes part of the body. Therefore a persons body does not reject a dental implant, as it might with tissue transplants, such as a kidney, lung, or heart. However this does not mean that an implant cannot fail. Failure would be due to other factors, such as existing diseases of the patient, misalignment, and improper force on the implant or other conditions.
HOW DO I CHOOSE AN IMPLANT DENTIST?
It is important to note that just as any health care field, Dentistry is a growing and continuously evolving field. Many types of doctors may be qualified to diagnose dental implant treatment. Not all dentists have had adequate training and education in the growing field of implant dentistry and may possibly (Not Intentionally) discourage the option of implants due to lack of knowledge of the procedure. Dr. Rothenberg has been placing and restoring implants since 1986. Dr. Rothenberg completed a 3 year program in Implant Dentistry at Harvard School of Dental Medicine in 1987. Dr. Rothenberg has placed and retired over 6000 patients to normal function and cosmetics since 1986. Implant Dentistry of the Northshore is completely dedicated to only Implant Dentistry in the greater Boston, MA area.