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What is an implant?
An implant is a manufactured copy of a tooth root which is carefully placed to
support new artificial teeth.
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What are implants made of?
Dental implants are made of titanium, a commonly occurring metal which has been
shown to be highly bio-compatiable. It has been used throughout the body as an
implant material for over 40 years. No documented cases of adverse reaction to
titanium have been reported. If you are concerned you should discuss pre-testing
for allergenic reaction with your doctor or one of the consulting team.
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How much will it cost?
The final cost of treatment can only be determined after a full investigation of
your individual needs and anatomical suitability. Some people are not candidates
for implants. Following a consultation with the TAO team. a precise, written
costing will be provided for your consideration. Some advanced Radiography, such
as CT Scanning or MRI may be required to finally determine your specific needs.
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What are the benefits of dental implants?
The use of dental implants offers the chance to put back some or all of your
teeth and restore the appearance and chewing ability you may have thought was
lost forever. They can also serve to protect and prevent bone loss which would
otherwise continue.
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Will the procedure hurt?
The ITI Implant system is one of the least traumatic available. Great care is
taken to ensure a gentle and kind tissue management. Normal patient reaction is
one of relief in the lack of discomfort. If your are particularly apprehensive
you should discuss the possibility of sedation. Some procedures, by their
nature, require a general anesthetic. The Consultant Oral Surgeon will be happy
to explain your choices for each procedure.
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Is the cost covered by my medical insurance?
Depending on the treatment necessary, insurance may pay all, some or none
of the costs.
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How long will implants last?
Implants have been used to replace missing teeth for over 30 years. The ITI
implant system which TOA prefer has a long and fully published history of
success. Success rates of 97-98% are currently expected with proper protocol and
maintenance.
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Can implants help me?
The answer is probably yes, however it will need a proper examination of your
mouth to determine your dental needs. If implants can help you, at this
appointment your questions will be answered.
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How long will treatment take?
Treatment time will depend on your particular circumstances. It can be from as
little as 6 weeks but longer for more complex procedures. Even in more involved
cases the team can provide provisional bridgework or use existing crowns and
bridges allowing you to live and work normally.
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How many visits are involved?
This depends on your particular needs. A written estimate of the
appointment times and frequency can be provided.
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Do I ever have to be without teeth?
This depends on your particular circumstance. Every effort will be made by the
TAO team to maintain your smile throughout. There maybe some procedures where
you will be advised to be without teeth for a short period of several days or up
to two weeks. Treatment outcome can be detrimentally affected if your new
implants are "chewed on" too early. In some circumstances, same day
replacement of your teeth is possible. Your TAO consultant can advise you.
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Is implant after-care important?
Positively yes. Oral hygiene will help to keep the bacterial plaque from
building up on your new teeth and around the implant sites. Instruction on
after-care will be given by the restoring dentist or the hygienist member of the
team. Regular check-up visits will be arrange to maintain your hygiene levels
and keep a watching brief on the implant and bone levels.
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Can I insure my implants and new teeth?
Such is the confidence and volume of the published work on Implants, it is now
possible to insure against accidental loss or damage and against the possibility
of failure to integrate. The TAO team are registered with the Cigna Insurance
for Implants Scheme and will be happy to advise you of costs and premiums.
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