StarBrite
Dental
38350 Fremont Blvd. Suite 103
Fremont, CA 94536
Tel: 510-795-7786
 |
A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that
serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural
tooth. The implant is placed in the upper or lower jaw. It will bond
with the bone over time and thus serve as an anchor for the replacement
tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or
many missing teeth. To
see how implants are used to treat missing teeth click on the followng links: 2.
Missing several
adjacent teeth With more than three decades of clinical experience
and over a million patients treated, crowns and bridges supported by
Nobel Biocare implants are highly successful. Statistics from our
preferred Impant manufacturer (Nobel Biocare) confirm a success rate of
nearly 95 percent for individual implants* – even higher for
the bridges they support. Dental implants placed in their first patient
35 years ago are still functioning today. The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants
will depend on several factors, including the number of teeth being
replaced and the number of implants required to support your
replacement teeth. The are some extra costs if additional procedures
are required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure
the long-term health of your dental implants. Typically, there is a fee
for the surgical procedure and a separate fee for attaching the posts
and constructing your replacement teeth. To obtain a specific fee
estimate, it is necessary to have a doctor examine your specific case
and needs. After a thorough diagnostic examination, your dentist will
recommend the treatment that is best for you. Typically, single
implants cost more. If multiple implants are placed at the same time,
the per implant cost will reduce substantially. Click here
for more information on the Cost of Dental Implants. StarBrite
Dental offers a FREE Implant consultation. To schedule an appointment
call us at 510-795-7786. Traditionally, the procedure has been performed in
two steps. The dentist began by installing the implant, which was left
for from three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone.
During the healing period, the patient was given a temporary prosthesis
until the permanent crown could be put in place. Today, there is an alternative to the two-step
method that allows you to have the implant installed in one whole piece
in one single session. This new method has simplified the procedure a
lot, both for patients and dentists. The procedure is chosen depends on several factors,
such as the patient’s dental health, the number of teeth
involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also
determine the total number of visits to the dentist throughout the
treatment period.
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) ON DENTAL IMPLANTS
What is a
dental implant?
Are dental
implants successful?
* Results based on implants and
bridges remaining and in function over a five-year period. 
How much do
implants cost?
Why choose
StarBrite Dental and Dr Munira Lokhandwala ?
Dr
Lokhandwala is certified in placing dental implants and has acquired
training and experience under well- known experts from all over the
world. Our preferred implant supplier, NobelBiocare, has been the
innovative leader in the dental industry for 50 years. Their solutions
and products are at the very forefront, providing efficient treatment
procedures, excellent function and high esthetic outcome.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE ? CAN I GET IMPLANTS
?
Will dental
implants work for me?
Anyone
who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or decay may be
a candidate for dental implants. The main limitation
is the amount of available bone. Your dentist is
the best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable
solution for you. If an adequate quantity of bone is not available at
the implant site, a bone graft may be necessary.
Is old age
a problem?
Occasionally,
older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from
enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a
determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth
extracted, you're probably healthy enough to receive dental implants.
Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate implant treatment. Your
dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after
a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OVER TRADITIONAL TREATMENT
What are
the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a bridge?
·
Improved appearance:
When you lose entire tooth – crown and root –
shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older. Dental
implants can stop this process. A traditional denture or bridge
doesn’t.
· Maintained natural teeth:
With traditional practices, two teeth adjacent to a missing tooth must
be ground down to anchor a bridge. Dental implants often eliminate the
need to modify healthy teeth.
· Permanent solution:
There are no loose parts to worry about. The implant is stable and
comfortable. No adjustment is need after installation. Normally, it
will serve its owner for life.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FOR RESULTS ?
How will
dental implants affect my life?
Implant-supported
replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This
means that you can eat and drink whatever you are used to. You can
continue smoking as well, if you must. But most importantly, dental
implants often improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People
who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems
are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their
self-esteem.
Will my new
teeth look natural?
When
dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative
dentistry, their appearance, comfort and function are very likely to
exceed your expectations. Your new teeth will virtually
indistinguishable from your original teeth.
Will I be
able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural
teeth?
Yes.
Following a brief adaptation period during which you mouth and jaw get
used to the new tooth which was earlier either missing or decayed, the
chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth.
WHAT HAPPENS IN THE TREATMENT AND HOW DO I CARE
FOR MY NEW IMPLANTS ?
Is the
treatment painful?
Just
as with any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Anesthesia and
patient sedation are used to eliminate any discomfort at the time of
the procedure. Most patients report that they were much more
comfortable following the procedure than they had ever anticipated. We
would prescribe medications to ease any discomfort if it may occur. We
can also recommend another patient who has already had tooth
replacement therapy to assess their personal experience.
How much
time is required for an implant placement?
How will I
feel after the treatment?
It
is normal to have some small bruises and swelling in the gum and soft
tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an
ordinary painkiller. You should expect to be able to work the next day.
How will I
care for my implants?
Your
new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your
natural teeth. Brush and floss as recommended by your dentist or dental
hygienist. See your dentist every sixth months, or more frequently if
so advised.
