What type of anesthesia is used?

The majority of dental implants and one graft can be performed in the office. Many of these procedures can be done under a local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or with a general anesthesic if so desired.

Are my dental implants going to look like my real teeth?

Yes. Maybe even better! The new implant teeth will look great as long as you take care of them properly. Take a look at our Smile Gallery. Can you tell which teeth are the implants? (Make the last sentence line a link to the smile gallery)

What is the difference between a bridge and dental implants?

Unlike conventional bridgework, implants can provide tooth replacement without the need to cut down or reduce adjacent healthy teeth. The preparation of teeth can undermine their integrity and lead to further problems later on. In addition to preservation of the adjacent teeth, dental implants also prevent the loss of bone in the area of the missing tooth. Immediately following the loss of a tooth the bone begins to shrink away. Replacing the tooth with an implant restores function to the bone and prevents the resorption of the bone.

Advantages of dental implants beyond their long term, natural appearance:

• Eat whatever you like: Dental implants allow you to eat all those delicious foods that are difficult to chew.
• Smile with confidence: Dental Implants allow you to show the world how you feel without concern about your teeth - a more natural smile that you will be proud to show off. Also, you will notice a renewed sense of self-confidence.
• Express yourself: Dental implants allow you to talk and laugh without the fear of dentures becoming loose or falling out. You no longer will need denture adhesives or pastes.
• Enjoy a better health: You will have the ability to chew a wider variety of good foods. Your mouth will be restored as closely as possible to its natural state.
• Increased comfort: No more loose fitting partials or dentures.
• Prevent bone loss: Preservation of facial structure and likely reduction of jaw deterioration

How much pain will I experience?

Minimal. While undergoing treatment, you can receive local anesthesia. If you are very apprehensive you could be given IV sedation or general anesthesia in our office for your peace of mind. You may have mild post-surgical soreness for a few days. An over-the-counter pain reliever will alleviate most discomfort.

How long will the implant procedure take?

A single dental implant placement is usually done in less than 60 minutes as an office procedure. The implant is then allowed to heal with the bone for a minimum of six to twelve weeks. If you have good quality bone at the site where the implant was initially placed, the temporary abutment or healing plug can be removed and a final abutment/ post is placed into the implant. If you have poor quality bone and bone-grafting procedures are necessary, the overall process may take up to 12 months. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Zager can determine which surgical procedure will be best for you.

Can dental implants be used as an alternative to root canal treatment?

YES! However, we first try to save the tooth through root canal treatment if there is good bone and gum tissue around the tooth. Not all teeth are good candidates for root canal treatment. In these situations, an implant should be considered. Root canal treatments are susceptible to decay, where as implants are a permanent solution to a usually painful and costly alternative of a root canal, post with core and crown lengthening. The cost factor for saving a very poorly decayed and damaged tooth during the course of your dental treatments can exceed that of the placement and restoration of an implant.

How much will it cost and does my insurance cover implant treatment?

The number of implants that will be placed, the type of prosthesis recommended and doing a pre-determination of benefits with your insurance company will determine the cost. This can only be determined after a thorough consultation and examination by Dr. Zager. We will be happy to help you work with your insurance company and provide payment options that fit your needs. Frequently, the insurance carrier may not cover the cost of a dental implant but they may cover the cost of a crown on top of the implant. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover and we are a partner with the Dental Fee Plan –a payment plan program that fits your individual needs and financial circumstances. If you have budget constraints, the Dental Fee Plan can help and treatment can start right away. We can walk you through your payment options and answer any concerns Monday through Friday 8am – 5pm. 312-372-0411.

How successful is the Implant procedure?

Dental implants have been widely used since 1965. Good oral hygiene is an important factor in insuring long lasting results from your implants. In a survey of over 1350 patients treated with dental implants during the past five years, over 98% agreed that their implants were worth the time and investment. Patients in our practice overwhelmingly indicate the positive change that implants have made in their lives.

Do Implants need special care?

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists. Frequent dental hygiene visits are needed throughout the year. We suggest three to four hygiene visits per year.