A: Almost everyone who is missing one or more teeth and, in general, is in good health, is a candidate for dental implant treatment. There are a few medical conditions that can undermine the success of implant treatment, such as uncontrolled diabetes. However, there are a few conditions that would keep someone from having implant treatment altogether.

Quality and quantity of available bone for implant placement is more often a factor in qualifying for dental implants than medical conditions. However, even people who have lost a significant amount of bone can qualify for dental implant treatment—with additional procedures to add bone or create new bone. Advances in this type of treatment have made it possible, for thousands of patients who would not previously have been considered candidates, to have successful implant procedures.

A: All of our patients report that they feel no pain during the procedure. In fact, many patients do not have to use any pain pills following the procedure. Your decision to use implants will help you to avoid much pain and discomfort in the long term.

Given the overall health care benefits, you should not deny yourself proper treatment out of fear of pain. As with any medical or dental procedure, your attending doctor, the dentist, is equipped to provide you with appropriate treatment. This includes any pain medicines you need.

Also, if you’re especially fearful, phobic, or pain sensitive, you have the option of doing the procedures with sedation dentistry. You take a small pill before you come into the office and rest peacefully as we do our work. With this option, you barely remember the procedure the next day but get a ton of dental work done in just 1 visit.

Finally, to make sure you are comfortable when you leave our office, you’ll receive the necessary prescriptions to keep you comfortable. In addition, we will call to make sure that you are not in any continued discomfort. Our goal is to give you stronger, more comfortable teeth, without pain or discomfort!

A: Many people call and ask us, “how much is one implant going to cost?’ While we wish it was that simple. The only way to determine the actual cost is by coming in for a consultation and examination to find out if you have a bone loss and if you’ll need one, two, or more implants. Obviously, costs vary greatly depending on your needs and desires. A healthy mouth or magnificent dazzling smile pays dividends in many ways for your entire life.

Dental implants are admittedly not the least expensive option. If your primary concern is a lowest possible investment, then dental implants are not for you. If on the other hand, a reasonable investment and a fair price are important to you, then dental implants are the way to go. Dental implants are proven to cause the least pain and discomfort, provide the gentlest care, and the highest degree of expertise and professionalism.

(Incidentally, a variety of payments plans are available. Of course, all major credit cards are accepted, so that you can get your airline miles or reward points. Some patients report getting 5 days in a top resort with the reward points on their credit card. Expert assistance in obtaining reimbursements from your insurance provided free of charge.)