Dr. Sameet Koppikar is a Dentist who has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Dental Implants.
Q. What are Dental Implants?
A. Dental implants are a cosmetic and more durable alternative to conventional bridges and dentures. A dental implant restoration consists of a titanium post capped with a crown, bridge or denture.
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
A. Dental implants look and act like natural teeth. And because they maintain bone mass, dental implants can help prevent additional tooth loss as well as the "sunken facial appearance" associated with missing teeth.
Q. How long does an implant last?
A. In a healthy individual who does not have a history of teeth clenching or grinding - implants can last a life-time. Remember – they are not real teeth – so they will NEVER get a cavity!
Q. What are implants made of?
A. Dental implants are made of medical grade biocompatible titanium. They were actually invented by an orthopedic surgeon 40 years ago.
Q. Who is a candidate for implants?
A. Anyone who is medically fit to participate in an oral surgical procedure is a good candidate. However - Patients who have medical or other conditions that may interfere with the healing process of either their bones or soft tissues (e.g., connective tissue disorders, steroid therapy, bone infections, cigarette smoking) must carefully evaluate, with their dentists, the potential risks and benefits of using dental implants.
Q. How are dental implants placed?
A. A dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone where it replaces the missing tooth. This is usually done under local anesthesia and can take as little as 15 minutes. In a few months, the implant "osseo-integrates" with the bone - allowing it to withstand biting and chewing forces just like a healthy, natural tooth.
Q. How long does it take?
A. It takes about 3 – 6 months for the dental implant to integrate with the bone. Once it has been firmly attached to the bone we can cap it with a crown. It is possible to wear a temporary prosthesis while the implant is undergoing osseo-integration.
Q. How to contact Dr. Koppikar if we have further questions?
A.
Address:
4202 N. 32nd Street, Suite B, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Phone: 602.954.8200
Fax: 602.954.8786
Email: doc@biltmoredentalcenter.com
Website:www.BiltmoreDentalCenter.com
