are dental implants right for me? · since implants are inserted through a surgical procedure, you...

Are Dental ImplantsRight For Me?

Copyright © 2020 Mann Family Dental

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Disclaimer

All the material contained in this book is provided for educational and informational purposes only. No responsibility can be taken for any results or outcomes resulting from the use of this material.While every attempt has been made to provide information that is both accurate and effective, the author does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or use/misuse of this information.

Table of ContentsUnderstanding Dental Implants

Chapter 1: What is a Dental Implant?................................................................ 2

Chapter 2: The Benefits of Dental Implants ..................................................... 3 Replacing a Single Tooth ............................................................................ 4 Replacing Several Teeth with an Implant Bridge......................................... 5 Using Implants to Stabilize a Denture ........................................................ 6

Chapter 3: Are you a Good Candidate for Dental Implants? .......................... 7 Health Considerations ................................................................................ 7 Dental Function Considerations.................................................................. 7 Smile Aesthetics Considerations................................................................. 8

Chapter 4: What is the Cost of Dental Implants? ............................................ 9 Will your Insurance Cover some of the Cost? ............................................ 9 Financing Dental Implants .......................................................................... 9

Chapter 5: What is the Clinical Procedure for Getting Dental Implants?...... 11 Is the Clinical Procedure Painful?............................................................... 11 How long does the Procedure Take? ......................................................... 12 Recovery and Healing after Dental Implant Placement ............................. 13

Chapter 6: How to Care for your Implants........................................................ 15 What happens if Implants Fail? .................................................................. 16

Chapter 7: Finding the Right Dental Implant Dentist ...................................... 18 How long has the Dentist been Placing Implants? ..................................... 18 Does the Dentist use Cone Beam CT Scanning? ...................................... 19 Is the Dental Team Professional and Helpful?............................................ 19 Does the Dentist Offer Sedation Services? ................................................ 20

Chapter 8: Are Dental Implants Right for you? ............................................... 22 Is it Time and are you ready? ..................................................................... 22 An Elective Financial Investment ............................................................... 23 YouDeservetheBenefitsofDentalImplants..............................................24 Taking the First Steps ................................................................................. 24

About Dr. Russell Mann ..................................................................................... 26

4 | Mann Family Dental

Understanding Dental ImplantsDental implants have truly revolutionized smile reconstruction. Missing teeth, severely damaged teeth and extreme tooth decay can easily be treated with the help of these implants and restore people’sself-confidenceandself-esteem.

When the dental implant procedure is performed accurately and correctly, the results can be astonishing. No one will know you have implants, evenwhenyouflashasmile.

A dental implant consists of a small titanium post or screw that is surgically implanted into your jawbone. After dental implant placement, and a few month recuperation period, the surface of the implant fuses with your jawbone. Theresult is a sturdy and strong base which can be used as an anchor for attaching a dental prosthesissuchasacrown,afixedbridgeoradenture.

Dr.Mannhashelpedhundredsofclientsregaintheirself-confidenceandbeautifulsmileswith the help of dental implants. So, if you are looking for an experience and skilled dental implant dentist in Manchester NH, your search ends with Dr. Russell Mann.

Mann Family Dental | 5

Are Dental Implants Right For Me?

Chapter 1: What is a Dental Implant?

Adentalimplantisanartificialtoothrootthatisimplantedpermanentlyintothemouth.Itconsists of a titanium wscrew that is inserted directly into the jaw bone and a crown that is typically made from porcelain. The crown is the portion of the tooth that you see. An implant crown looks like and behaves like a natural tooth, allowing you to chew, smile, and speak as though you had a full set of natural teeth.

Dental implants are an option for patients who are missing one or multiple teeth. They must be applied surgically -- usually in two stages. The procedure has become the preferred alternative to other tooth replacement options, such as dentures and bridges, and it boasts a high success rate.

There are several types of dental implants. A single dental implant supports one crown, or tooth. An implant bridge consists of two implanted rods with a row of crowns, or teeth, between them. A third type of dental implant, sometimes known as a mini implant, is smaller and can be used to anchor a denture to the lower jaw bone. This type of denture/implant combination is often referred to as an implant-supported denture.

Single Dental Implant Bridge Dental Implant


Chapter 2: The Benefits of Dental ImplantsDental implants have a very high success rate. The Academy of Osseointegration reports that long-term success rates are in the high 90% range. Known for their strength and stability, dental implants are the next best thing compared to natural teeth. They look and behave just like natural teeth, and when properly cared for, they can last a lifetime. Some patients do need adjustments to their implants from time to time, but these adjustments are typically simpleand minor.

Dental implants alleviate the embarrassment of living with missing teeth. Never again will you have to hide your smile or worry that you can’t bite into foods you love. You’ll be able to speak naturally, pronouncing words properly without a struggle. You’ll wake up every morning and look in the mirror to see a natural smile.

When missing teeth are not replaced, the bone beneath the missing tooth can begin to deteriorate. This can pose a risk to your remaining teeth, since they are anchored into that jawbone. Dental implants prevent this deterioration, which may allow you to keep your remaining natural teeth healthy and in place. Implants also prevent the sunken-in, sagging face shape that can develop when you’re missing teeth.

Replacing a Single Tooth

In years past, single missing teeth were often replaced with dental bridges, which are false teeth that attach to the bordering teeth. Bridges are capable of giving a patient back their smile and providing a chewing surface. However, since they do not reach into the jaw bone like a dental implant, they do allow for jawbone deterioration. Bridges put a lot of strain on the neighbouring teeth to which they are attached, so it is not uncommon for patients with bridges to eventually end up losing those neighbouring teeth. Dental implants, on the other hand, actually protect the teeth near them by preventing bone deterioration.

Having a single tooth replaced with an implant reduces your chances of losing those neighbouring teeth as well. Today, most dentists agree that a dental implant is a superior



choice to a bridge when it comes to replacing a single missing tooth. While there are some patients who cannot undergo implant surgery and thus must settle for a bridge, implants are seenastheidealandfirst-choiceoption.

Some patients are unsure whether they should leave their missing tooth alone or replace it with an implant. In almost all cases, replacing the missing tooth with an implant offers a numberofbenefits.Thepatientdoesnothavetoworryaboutfoodgettingcaughtintheemptyspace or dealing with stares from onlookers when the space is visible. Leaving one missing tooth untreated may cause deterioration and lead to several missing teeth later on -- and at that point, the patient will be left to choose between having multiple implants or dentures. Replace one missing tooth now, or you may be left replacing three or more missing teeth in a few years.

Replacing Several Teeth with an Implant Bridge

Dentalimplantsarealsoaneffectiveandbeneficialoptionforpatientswhoaremissingseveral teeth. If the missing teeth are not located next to one another, your dentist can simply use several single implants to replace them. However, when you are missing several adjacent teeth,thereisanotheroption:animplant-supportedfixedbridge.Thisapparatusconsistsofseveral rods that are implanted in the jaw bone, along with multiple crowns that are attached tooneanotherandthenattachedtothefixedrods.

Implant bridges are a more permanent and desirable alternative to partial dentures. They offer anarrayofbenefitswhencomparedtodentures:

• They don’t move or shift when you smile, chew, or speak.• They don’t have to be removed and stored at night. You care for them just like natural

teethwithregularbrushing,flossing,anddentalcheck-ups.• They allow you to retain your face shape. Since you don’t remove them, you do not

have to deal with the sunken-in look your face develops when teeth are missing.• Theydon’trequireyoutospendmoneyortimeonfixativesasyouwouldwith

dentures.• They allow you to eat all of your favourite foods, unlike dentures that may make it

difficulttoeatstickyorcrunchyfoods.


Using Implants to Stabilize a Denture

An enticing option for patients who are missing all of their teeth is to have implant-stabilized dentures applied. This apparatus, the implant part of which is sometimes known as a mini dental implant due to the reduced size of the actual implanted rods, consists of four titanium rods that are implanted into the jaw bone. These rods can be attached to (and detached from) a full or partial set of dentures. The mini implants can often be installed in one session, and the healing period is shorter than that associated with typical dental implants. It may be an option for patients who have health ailments that make it unsafe for them to undergo traditional implant surgery. Implant-stabilized dentures don’t move around in the mouth like standard dentures, which allows the patient moreflexibilitywhenchoosingfoods,speakingandsmiling.Theydon’trequiretheuseoffixative,andtheyoftenlookandfeelmorenaturaltothepatient.



Chapter 3: Are you a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

While dental implants are a great option for many patients, there are some who are not candidates for this procedure. Your dentist and physician will work together to determine if implants are a safe choice for you.

Health ConsiderationsSince implants are inserted through a surgical procedure, you must be in good general health in order to be a candidate. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes, haemophilia or significantimmunedeficienciesareoftennoteligible.Followingimplantsurgery,aprocessknown as Osseo integration occurs in which the jaw bone fuses to the implant. Your gums must also heal from the incisions. If your dentist or physician feels that you have a health condition that will prevent Osseo integration and healing, you will likely be told you’re not a candidate. People who take certain steroid drugs or immune suppressant agents are often not candidates, and those with connective tissue disorders and haemophilia are often determined not to be candidates as well.

Dental Function ConsiderationsAccording to the Colgate and the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, patients must have enough bone to anchor the implants. However, some patients’ bone structure can be built up with other procedures, such as grafting, allowing them to undergo implant surgery later on.

Patients must also have healthy gums and be willing to take very good care of the implanted teethwithregularbrushing,flossinganddentalvisits.Ifyourtoothhasbeenmissingforalongtime,therootsofothernearbyteethmayhavebegunshifting,makingitdifficultorimpossiblefor a dentist to insert and implant.

Ifyouarehavingdifficultieschewingorspeakingbecauseyouaremissingoneormoreteeth,or because your bridge or denture is causing you trouble, it is worth your time to ask your dentist whether you’re a good candidate for implants.


Smile Aesthetics ConsiderationsYou may also be a great candidate for implants if your dentures or missing teeth are making ithardforyoutosmilewithconfidence.Self-consciousnessaboutyoursmilecanhaveanegative impact on your self-esteem, making it hard for you to partake in activities you used to enjoy. Dental implants allow you to be your happy, smiling self again, so you can live a life thatisfulfillingandenjoyable.



Chapter 4: What is the Cost of Dental Implants?

Costs vary according to your location and the type of implants you need. According to the Dental Implant Center, a single implant may cost anywhere from $1500 to $7500. Implant bridges range from about $3,500 to $25,000. Your dentist should be able to give you an estimate of the cost of your implant surgery when you go in for an evaluation. When considering dental implants, keep in mind that while the initial cost may seem high, you may actually save money in the long run since implants can last a lifetime and eliminate the need for replacement dentures, additional bridges, and treatment of additional tooth issues that arise from relying on other tooth replacement methods.

Will your Insurance Cover some of the Cost?If you have dental insurance, it may cover some or all of the cost of your implants if your dentist deems them necessary in order to maintain your ability to chew and speak. Some insurance providers, unfortunately, consider implants a cosmetic procedure, and thus will not cover their cost unless youspecificallyhaveasupplementalpolicyfordentalcare. If you’re thinking of getting implants, it is wise to call your insurance company up-front and ask how much, if any, coverage they offer. This way, you’ll know how much will be left for you to pay, and you can weigh your options.

Financing Dental ImplantsIf you are left paying some or all of the cost of your dental implants out-of-pocket, be sure to askyourdentistaboutfinancingoptions.Manydentistswhoperformimplantsurgeriesdoallow their patients to make payments over time, as they understand this is a large up-front expense.Therearealsosomeindependentgroups,suchasCareCredit,thatwillfinanceyour implants and allow you to make monthly payments as long as you qualify for a loan with a decent credit score.


Chapter 5: What is the Clinical Procedure for Getting Dental Implants?

Usually,dentalimplantsareappliedinyourdentist’soffice.Mostpatientsaregivenalocalanesthetic prior to the procedure, and various forms of sedation, such as nitrous oxide/laughing gas may also be used to make the patient more comfortable. Occasionally, in patients with complicating health conditions or those who require many implants, general anesthetic may be administered or the implants may be inserted in a hospital setting.

Unless you are getting mini implants, which are often inserted during a single procedure, the implantplacementprocessgenerallyconsistsofthreestages.Duringthefirstprocedure,yourdentist will actually place the metal implants in your jaw bone and underneath your gums. The mouth will be given some time to heal, and then the dentist will perform a second procedure in which the metal implant is “unburied” from beneath the gum so a special post, known as an abutment, can be attached to it. The mouth is them given more time to heal. During this healing period, the gum tissue will heal around the base of the abutment, leaving it exposed. When your dentist determines that your gum tissue is adequately healed, you’ll return to the officeforthefinalpartoftheprocedureinwhichatooth-coloredcrownisattachedtotheabutment.

Somedentistshavebegunperformingthefirsttwostagesofdentalimplantapplication--inserting the implants and attaching the abutments -- at the same time. However, this method is not right for every patient. Your dentist can tell you whether you are a candidate for this simplifiedprocedure.

Is the Clinical Procedure Painful?Because you are placed under local or general anaesthetic during the implant procedure, you should not experience any pain during the surgery. Some patients do report feeling pressure sensations as the implants are placed, but this is not a sensation of pain. If the idea of having the implants placed makes you uncomfortable, your dentist will likely prescribe either an oral or inhaled sedative to keep you calm and relaxed during the procedure.

You will experience some pain once the surgery is over and the anesthetic wears off. However, your dentist will prescribe medications to help manage this pain, and it should



become greatly reduced within a few days after the initial surgery. The pain following the second procedure, in which the abutments are placed, is generally milder and isolated to thegumtissue.Manypatientsfindthatover-the-counterpainrelieverslikeTylenolandAdvilaresufficientformanagingpainatthisstage,thoughifyouareinmorepain,yourdentistwilllikely prescribe a stronger pain reliever to keep you comfortable.

How long does the Procedure Take?The length of the actual implant placement procedure varies based on how many and what type of implants you are having inserted. The initial procedure, in which the posts are inserted into your jaw bone, generally takes between 30 minutes and 4 hours. The second appointment, in which the abutments are attached, takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how many abutments need to be attached. The third phase, in which the crowns are placed on the abutments, is rather quick. You may have to visit your dentist twice for this part of theprocedure,asamoldoftheshapeofyourmouthwillneedtofirstbemadesothatthecrowns can be custom designed in the proper size and shape. The entire process of having dentalimplantsinserted--fromthedayofthefirstproceduretothetimeyouhavethecrownsattached -- takes place over a period of between 6 months and a year. You will need 3 to 6 month to heal after the initial insertion of the implants, and another 3 to 6 months to heal after the abutments are attached.


Recovery and Healing after Dental Implant PlacementAfterthefirstphaseofdentalimplantinsertion,youwillgenerallybeallowedtoreturnhomeon the same day. If you underwent any sort of sedation during the procedure, you will need to have a friend or family member drive you home. You will begin to notice some soreness a couple of hours after the procedure as the anaesthetics wears off. For this reason, most dentistswillrecommendtakingyourfirstdoseofpainrelieversuponarrivinghome,soyoucan begin managing the pain before it sets in.

Generally,patientsarefittedwithamodifiedortemporarydenturetowearaftertheimplantshave been inserted. This denture will allow you to eat and drink normally for the 3 to 6 months thatitwilltakeyoutofullyhealfromtheinitialimplantprocedure.Duringthefirstfewdaysafter having your implants inserted, however, you’ll generally be instructed to stick to liquids and very soft foods, like pudding, yogurt, smoothies and mashed potatoes. A week or two later, after your incisions have had some time to heal, you can slowly start working foods thatrequiremorechewingintoyourdiet.Duringthefirstweekortwoaftersurgery,you’llbeinstructed to take it easy. However, you should be able to return to your normal activities after this period.

After you have the abutments attached to your implants, you will need to undergo a second period of healing. Your temporary denture will be altered to accommodate these abutments.



Once again, you’ll be told to follow a soft diet for a week or two, after which you can return to eating most foods.While you’re healing from dental implant surgery, good oral hygiene is essential for preventing infection and other complications. You will be instructed to brush your teeth as usual after your implant surgery, but just to be very gently around the implant area while you’re still healing. Using an extra soft toothbrush can help. Your dentist will likely recommend an antibacterial mouthwash for you to use. Salt water can also be swished around in the mouth during the healing period, both to address discomfort and prevent infection.Different people heal at different rates following dental implant surgery. There are a few things you can do to ensure you heal as quickly as possible:

• Take your NSAID pain reliever, such as Advil, regularly as recommended by your dentist. This will keep the swelling under control, which will speed up the healing process.

• Avoid smoking tobacco. Many dentists will not perform implant surgery on smokers because the smoke impedes healing. Even the occasional cigarette is a bad idea.

• Eat well during recovery. Becauseeatingcanbeabitpainfulinthefirstfewdays following surgery, some patients do not give their bodies enough fuel to heal and recovery properly during this time. Try to take in plenty of soft, yet nutritious foods like applesauce, smoothies, and soft-cooked vegetables.

• Brush your teeth. Even though it may be a bit uncomfortable, this is essential for keeping oral bacteria levels down while you’re healing.

• Get plenty of rest. Don’t push yourself to power through a busy routine during the firstfewdaysaftersurgery.Takeiteasy,soyourbodycanfocusitsenergyonhealing.


Chapter 6: How to Care for your ImplantsOnce you have healed from your dental implant surgery and the crowns have been attached to the abutments, it’s important that you keep paying close attention to your oral hygiene. Caring for healed implants is really no different than caring for your natural teeth. You’ll need tobrushatleasttwiceperday,flossbetweenthe teeth, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce oral bacteria and keep your gums healthy. Failing to practice good oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which can eventually contribute to bone loss and put your implants’ condition in jeopardy.

Dental implants cannot develop cavities, but they do develop wear and tear over your lifetime. Thus, it is important to see your dentist regularly after you have implants inserted. He or she will monitor the condition of your implants and let you know if any need to be repaired or replaced. When properly cared for, implants can last for decades. However, every patient is different, and some do need to eventually have some of their implants repaired or replaced.

If you wear an implant supported denture, you will need to remove the denture nightly and clean it thoroughly. You should also pay careful attention to the attachments in your mouth, brushing them as you would teeth after your denture has been remove. Your dentist will recommend a denture cleaning solution that is compatible with your particular denture. The clips which attach the denture to the implants may need to be replaced annually, as they can wear down with continued use. Your dentist will inform you of the recommended replacement schedule after you have your implant-supporteddenturemadeandfitted.



What happens if Implants Fail?

Implants have a very high success rate, but there are times when an implant fails. Patients can reduce the risk of failure by choosing a dentist who is highly experienced with implant surgeries, and by following aftercare instructions closely. Even with the best dentist and aftercare, there is a slight chance of failure.

There are many possible reasons why a dental implant may fail. These include:

• Failed Osseointegration: After the implant is placed in the jaw bone, the bone must grow and fuse around it in order to make it stable. If this process does notoccur adequatelywithinthefirst1-2years,theimplantisconsideredafailure.Boneconditions like osteoporosis, and a lack of initial jaw bone depth, can often be blamed for failed oseointegration. In many patients with these conditions, having a bone graft performed before the initial implant procedure can increase the chances of successful osseointegration.

• Infection: If the surgical site becomes infected, the implant may not osseointegrate properly, or the dentist may be forced to remove the implant in order to treat the infection. The chances of infection can be minimized with proper oral hygiene and by avoiding smoking. Patients with immune disorders are at an increased risk of infection, which is why many dentists will not consider them as candidates for the procedure.

• Foreign body rejection: This is rare with dental implants, but it can happen. The body may recognize the implant as a foreign object and begin “pushing” it out. One reason why titanium is used for implants is because the body tends to react positively to it, so the chance of rejection is low. In rare cases, patients with titanium allergies may suffer itchiness, fatigue and other symptoms after implants are inserted, and may end up having to have the implants removed.


If your initial dental implant fails, there are a number of things your dentist can do to try and save it. In the case of failed osseointegration, you can often undergo a bone graft, and then once the graft has had time to heal, another implant procedure can be attempted. If your implant becomes infected, your dentist may be able to remove the implant, give the area time to heal, and then attempt the procedure again.

Whether or not your dentist feels it is safe or worthwhile to attempt a second implant procedure after the initial one fails will depend on the reason your implant failed and what your dentist feels can be done differently the second time around.

If your implant fails a second time, this may mean that you’re one of the few patients whose body simply is not receptive to implants. Your dentist will discuss other tooth replacement options, such as bridges and standard dentures, and help you choose one that is best-suited for your lifestyle and oral health.



Chapter 7: Finding the Right Dental Implant Dentist

The more experienced your dentist, the greater your chances of success with dental implants. Every patient’s mouth is different, and there are a number of unique challenges your dentist may encounter when inserting the implants. An experienced dentist will have encountered these challenges before, so he or she will know how to handle them. An experienced dentist will also be able to give you more detailed aftercare instructions and more advice that will help you successfully and comfortably heal from the surgery.

How long has the Dentist been Placing Implants?When searching for a dentist to install your implants, pay close attention to how long each particular dentist has been placing implants. If a dentist does not advertise how long he or she has been working with implants, don’t be afraid to ask. If the answer is vague or implants are being advertised as a “new procedure,” you may wish to seek someone with more experience. Look for a dentist, like Dr. Mann, with at least several years’ experience working with implants. Make sure, too, that he or she is experienced in the type of implants you feel you may need. If you have one missing tooth you need replaced, look for a dentist who has performed many single implants. If you need implant-supporteddentures,youshouldworkwithapractitionerwhospecificallydealswiththese devices. Sometimes, a dentist who specializes in implant-supported dentures may advertise as a “denturist.”


Does the Dentist use Cone Beam CT Scanning?Cone beam CT scanning, also known as CBCT, is an important innovation in dental implant technology. This scanning procedure allows the dentist to see the relative locations of teeth and their roots in threedimensions. Neurological pathways, the sinuses, and other features of the face can be seen clearly. This helps ensure that the dentist is placing the implants in the proper locations and at the proper depth in the jaw bone. It also greatly reduces the risk of complications like nerve and sinus damage.

You should absolutely look for a dentist who uses CBCT when placing dental implants. Those who don’t employ this technology tend to have more patients with side effects and complication. CBCT is also capable of giving your dentist information about your bone density, soheorshecandecideconfidentlywhetheryou’reacandidateforimplantsinthefirstplace.If a dentist using CBCT technology recommends against you getting dental implants, you can generally count on this opinion as being valid. On the other hand, if you work with a dentist whodoesnotuseCBCT,youmaynotfindoutuntilit’stoolatethatyourjawboneisnotstrong enough to support the implants.



Is the Dental Team Professional and Helpful?

Since the process of having dental implants placed can take up to a year, you’re going to be seeing your dentist and his or her team often. It’s important that you feel comfortable around them, and that they are willing to address any questions and concerns you have along the way.

When you visit a dentist for an initial evaluation to see whether you’re a candidate for implants, pay close attention to the demeanor of the dentist and the other staff. Do they welcome you with a smile? Do they answer considerately when you ask questions? Are you able to understand their explanations of procedures and what you may need? When you ask forclarification,dotheydotheirbesttoexplainthingstoyouinanunderstandablemanner?Some of these questions may seem a bit nit-picky, but when you undergo a major dental procedure like implant placement, knowing that those caring for you have your best interests in mind is important.

Ideally,youwanttheretobeotherpatientsatadentist’soffice.Thisshowsthatthereareothers who feel that dentist’s work is reliable. However, you may want to steer clear of an officethatseemsasthoughthey’reover-booked.Emergencieshappenandcanchangeadentist’s schedule, but if the waiting room is packed to the gills and you don’t get into the officeuntilanhourafteryourscheduledappointment,youmaywanttolookelsewhereforyour dental care. This can be a sign that the dentist is overbooking and rushing through procedures, or it may mean that the staff is too busy and may not be able to provide the personalized attention you need -- which is certainly not ideal with dental implants.


Does the Dentist Offer Sedation Services?While some patients do elect to undergo dental implant placement with local anesthetic alone, manyfindtheproceduremuchlessuncomfortableifthey’resedated.Thus,it’simportantto look for a dentist who offers sedation services, so that if you need sedation during your implant procedure, it is readily available.

Sedation dentistry is the practice of using specialized medications to keep patients calm throughout the appointment. Often, a sedation dentist will use nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, during the implant procedure. You will inhale this gas through a simple, little mask that fitsoveryournose.Thedentistcancontrol the amount of nitrous oxide you receive based on your needs. It will simply make you feel relaxed and a bit silly, so you’re not worried about what is going on inside your mouth. Nitrous oxide wears off quite quickly after you’re done inhaling it, though it is generally recommended that you have someone drive you home after you’ve taken it.

For the most nervous of patients or those who need multiple implants, oral sedatives can be used in combination with nitrous oxide. These are not safe for all patients to take, so your dentist will likely consult with your physician before administering oral sedatives if he or she thinks there is any possibility you won’t tolerate them well.If a dentist does not offer sedation services, you’re best off looking for another implant dentist who does. It would be unfortunate to get partway through the procedure and need to have your dentist stop because of anxiety.



Chapter 8: Are Dental Implants Right for you?

Dentalimplantsofferhealthandcosmeticbenefitsformanypatients.Asthetechnologiesandprocedures used to place them have become more advanced, the success rate of implants has increased and they have become a safer option than ever before. However, they are not for everyone. To determine whether your health and lifestyle are a good match for dental implants, it’s important to be evaluated by and talk to your dentist. If you’re on the fence, getting several opinions is never a bad idea, either. Your dentist can tell you which implant optionsarethebestsuitedforyourneedsandgiveyoumorespecificestimatesofwhatyoucan expect in terms of healing time, costs and cosmetic improvements, since every patient’s needs are different.

To determine whether dental implants are right for you, you and your dentist will need to consider and evaluate:

• Whether you are healthy enough to heal properly from the implant procedure.• Whether your jaw bone is strong enough to support the implants, and if not, whether a

bone graft will make it strong enough.• Whether your lifestyle can accommodate the time it takes to attend dental check-ups

and heal from various procedures during the 6 - 12 month process of having dental implants inserted.

• Whether you can obtain the funds to cover your implant procedure.• Whetherthebenefitsthatdentalimplantswillofferyou,personally,arenotablymore

substantial than those that come with wearing standard dentures, a bridge, or other tooth replacement options.


Is it Time and are you ready?While dentists typically recommend getting implants sooner rather than later after you lose a tooth, since this decreases the chances of bone loss, it is important to make sure you’re at the right point in your life before you commit to implants. Getting dental implants is an involved process, and you will have to be prepared to miss some work and other commitments to attend your appointments and heal from the various procedures. If you are very busy right now, but your schedule will open up in a few months, talk to your dentist about waiting a few more months to begin your implant procedure.

Before you commit to dental implants, it’s also wise to ensure you have the support of family or friends. No only will you need someone to drive you to and from the dentist if you choose to be sedated, but having someone around to help you prepare meals, take your medication on time,andfetchicepackswhenyourjawissorewillcomeinhandyduringthefirstfewdaysafter your procedure.

An Elective Financial Investment

Some patients are great matches for dental implants in terms of their health and treatment goals. However, they are intimidated by the high cost of implants. It’s important that when consideringthecostofimplants,youlookatthemasafinancialinvestmentforthefuture.When you have implants placed, you are decreasing your risk of other dental ailments, such as tooth decay in your remaining teeth, shifting tooth roots and jaw bone loss. If you do not opt for implants, you may end up paying more down the road to treat these other issues -- not to mention, dealing with the emotional and health burden these issues present.Also, keep in mind that for most patients, implants are a permanent solution that will last a lifetime. The same cannot be said for dentures, which need to be replaced every few years and bridges, which may need to be replaced every 10 - 15 years. The up-front cost of dental



implants may seem high, but they will save you money and anguish in the long run.Takethetimetoexploreallofyourfinancialoptionsbeforecommittingtoimplants.Ifyourinsurancedoesnotcoverimplants,lookintoprivatefinancingoptionslikeCareCreditsoyoucan pay for your implants slowly over time.

You Deserve the Benefits of Dental ImplantsDo you wish you could look in the mirror again and enjoy a natural-looking smile? Are you tired of having to force a closed-mouth smile in pictures so nobody sees your missing teeth Wouldn’t it be nice to eat your favorite crunchy snacks without pain or discomfort? With dental implants,youcanexperienceallofthesebenefitsandmore.

They’re not your natural teeth -- but they surely are the next best thing. You deserve the benefitofdentalimplants,soifyou’rereadytorediscoveryoursmileandahealthybite,takethefirststepstowardsgettingimplantstoday.

Taking the First Steps

Once you’ve decided to seriously consider the option of implants, yourfirststepshouldbetovisita reputable implant dentist for a evaluation. He or she will use various imaging techniques to evaluate whether implants are a viable option for your mouth, and will also evaluate your overall health. If you have any underlying health conditions, you should also speak with your physician about the safety of dental implants. Your physician and dentist may need to collaborate to determine whether you’re a candidate.

If your dentist tells you that you’re a candidate for implants, congratulations! Now all you have todoissecurefinancing,makeyourappointmentforthefirstprocedure(inwhichthetitaniumposts will be placed), and tell your family and friends about your big decision. In just a few short months, you’ll be waking up to a natural smile again -- and it will be well worth the time it took to achieve it.


About Dr. Russell MannDr. Russell Mann graduated from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston Texas in 1991. He has owned and operated his dental practice in Manchester New Hampshire since 1993. Dr. Mann lives locally with his wife and two children. His hobbies and interestsincludefishing,landscapingand gardening, reading, early American history, and he is an avid Boston Celtics fan. He also loves to study business, dentistry, and spend time with his family.

Dr. Mann is a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He actively pursues continuing education by attending courses, workshops, and seminars nationwide.

are dental implants right for me? · since implants are inserted through a surgical procedure, you...

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