PROCEDURES

Dental Implant FAQs

The immediate cost of dental implants is greater than treatments such as dentures and bridges. However, it is important to consider some important factors before making a judgment regarding the relative long-term cost of dental implant treatment.

Dental implants are placed without having to harm any adjacent teeth. This is not always true for other types of tooth replacements.

Unlike other types of tooth replacements, dental implants provide support similar to that of the root of a natural tooth.

Studies have shown that dental implants result in significantly fewer dental treatment requirements over the long term.

All factors considered, dental implants are less expensive than other types of tooth replacements.

Is dental implant surgery difficult and complicated?

Not if it is performed by a highly skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dental implant treatment is a specialized treatment. It requires a skilled surgeon and a skilled restorative dentist.

Generally, dental implant treatment involves the following steps:

Consultation with Dr. Ding and your restorative dentist.
Stage 1 surgery:
A titanium dental implant is placed in your jaw bone by Dr. Ding. Over a four to six month period, bone attaches to the submerged dental implant.
Stage 2 surgery:
A special attachment called an abutment is attached to the dental implant by Dr. Ding. In addition, Dr. Ding cosmetically enhances the appearance of the gum tissue around the surgical area.
Restoration:
Your restorative dentist places a prosthesis which resembles a tooth on the abutment attached to the dental implant.

In some cases, a single stage treatment approach may be possible. If this applies to you, Dr. Ding will present this alternative.

If my dental insurance does not cover dental implants, should I still consider it?

This is a good question. Many patients make treatment decisions on the basis of their insurance coverage. While it is important to consider the benefits that are covered through your insurance plan, it is also important that you understand the implications of the different types of treatment.

When you make treatment decisions solely or primarily on the basis of what is covered by your insurance plan, you may inadvertently be placing more weight on the values, judgment and priorities of the business people who design insurance plans than on a careful assessment of what is best for your overall well-being. Please pause to reflect on this issue before you make a decision.

Your consultation is the beginning of your dental implant treatment. Please consider your time with Dr. Ding as an opportunity to gain a solid understanding of the treatment that you are about to receive. Being well-informed sets the stage for a successful outcome.