FAQs about Dental Implants

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants

• Why Dental Implants?

- Lets you enjoy eating what you want to eat (not what you have to eat!)
- Lets you experience a more active lifestyle
- Professional and Social
- Allows you to smile with more confidence
- No more fear to Smile, Laugh, Eat!
- Helps you to look younger
- Helps improve your overall health

• Do they work?

- Yes, 98% of the time.
- 2% of dental implants have been known to fail

• How long have Dental Implants been around?

- Ancient records show they placed ivory implants as far back as 900 BC.
- Current technology has evolved from about 1965 to the current day.

• What is a Dental Implant?

A completed Implant contains all 3 of the following:
- The titanium base of the implant: that is placed in the bone.
- The abutment: this is a post that is fixed to the implant base.
- The tooth/restoration: this is placed on the post.

• Am I a good candidate for Dental Implants?

YES!
- If you are missing one or more teeth
- If you wear an upper and or lower full denture
- If you wear an upper and or lower partial denture
- If you have or had progressive gum disease
- If you are experiencing bone loss (shrinkage)
- If you are in generally good health

• Are Dental Implants Only For “Seasoned” Citizens?

NO!
We have used implants to benefit patients from 16 years old to 90 years young.

• Will I ever have to be without my teeth?

You will wear transitional teeth from the time the implants are placed until the implants are activated with the permanent restoration. Often your existing denture can be used as your transitional denture, and in some cases can be fitted as your final denture.

• Is a Hospital Stay Required?

NO.
The surgeries are done within a few hours and are done in one of our offices in Colorado Springs, CO or in Pueblo, CO. The patient is made very comfortable in our surgical suites.

• How Does It Usually Work?

- Placement of implant(s)
- Activation (may be done the same day or as much as 3-6 months later)
- Restoration (may take 2 – 6 weeks)

• What does a first time consultation cost me?

Screenings are provided at no charge for those attending our seminars. At your visit you’ll receive:
- An Implant Evaluation and Health Survey
- A Panoramic X-ray
- A Discussion of Your Wants and Desires
- A Summary of Treatment & Time Involved
- Total Fee for All Treatment ( No Hidden Charges)
- Discussion of Financial Options

• Are My Dental Implants Covered by My Insurance?

Typically not, but getting better.
However, you should check with your insurance carrier. They should cover other routine procedures up to your yearly maximum.
We will file your claims for you.