How safe and how durable are implants?
Based on refined surgical techniques and more mature materials, the average success rate for the first 5-10 years after the implantation is 95 %. However, in the majority of cases, they last much longer. These days, it is safe to say that the function of dental implants is identical to any other dental reconstructions.
Does the bone substance diminish faster around implants compared to edentulous areas?
No. An initial decrease of 1-2 mm – usually up to the thread of the implant screw – is only observed during the first 1-2 years, while the dental roots adjust to the high mechanical chewing forces in the mouth. After that, the bone diminishes by 0.1 mm per year, similar to the bone surrounding natural teeth.
How long does the implant treatment take?
As a rule of thumb, the following applies to regular implant treatments: in the lower jaw, implants osseointegrate within 2-4 months; the complete treatment including tooth replacement will take slightly more than 6 months. For the upper jaw, the wait time is 3-5 months, depending on the bone quality. Another 8-10 weeks are required for the exposure of the implants and the associated tooth replacement; in other words, the patient will be waiting up to 8 months for his new teeth.
Teeth in an Hour: thanks to this technique, it is now possible to set implants at a precision that allows the production of the dentures ahead of time at our own practice laboratory. Subject to adequate bone substance, the patient receives the permanent implants immediately after the procedure. For the patient, this means reduced treatment time, no need for multiple adjustments of the abutments as well as a functional and aesthetic dentition within a shorter period of time. Even the immediate limited application of load is possible.
Is the implant treatment painful?
IThe continuous improvement and accuracy of the implant methods make sure that implants can be set with absolute precision. This is done without the prior opening of the oral mucous membrane, i. e. by means of a minimally invasive procedure. The three-dimensional diagnostics performed beforehand are designed to make sure that none of the main vessels or nerves will be injured. In other words, the wound generally heals quickly. Minor pain for up to three days following the implantation procedure is possible, but it is treatable with conventional pain killers.
What types of implant systems are you using?
We exclusively rely on CE-certified quality products from major companies because the research and product development must comply with strict benchmarks, excellent testing and approval of the implants must be guaranteed and because we must be able to obtain potentially required system parts 10 years from now. So-called cheap implants or generic products manufactured abroad may more frequently result in damage or inaccuracies involving the implants.
How long will I feel discomfort after the procedure?
Depending on the general health condition, you should take some extra care for the first 2-5 days. Minor swelling may occur which recedes quickly (with the use of ice packs). Pain is generally only expected to occur on the day of surgery and can be suppressed with prescribed analgesics.
I have been wearing removable dentures for an extended period of time and my jaw bone has degenerated. Can I still get implants?
The purpose of the three-dimensional x-ray diagnostics by means of our volume tomophraphy device is to measure the existing jaw bone and to plan the precise position of the implants on the computer. Therefore it is possible in many cases, including cases with degenerated bone substance, to set the implants without prior bone augmentation. Different options are available, such as setting several shortened implants or setting implants with special angles. Even with severe bone degradation, it may be possible to set implants following bone augmentation. Please ask your dentist about the possible bone augmentation procedures.
How do I care for my implants?
After your new tooth replacement has been integrated, you will receive special hygiene technique instructions. Excellent tools for dental and implant hygiene at home are available. In addition, you will receive regular follow-up treatments from our oral hygiene specialists at the practice.
What is the cost for dental implants?
Your dentist or implant specialist will explain 2-3 treatment options to you. It will be up to you to decide whether you wish to receive standard, customised or optimal treatment, depending on the benefit-expense ratio.
