Implant
FAQ
Are you in the process of learning about dental implants? The following are the most common questions people have when investigating dental implants. This should help you determine if implants might be right for you.
One of the Top Dental Implant and Sedation Dentist in the
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX Area.
Dr. Wehrle, associates, and their team at HEB Dental are able to diagnose, plan, place, and restore your implants from beginning to end. This all-in-one solution eliminates your driving to different offices, meeting with different doctors, and receiving multiple bills. If you are about to lose your teeth, hate your dentures, or suffer from a complex medical condition, this is the answer you’ve been looking for.
"We have 21st century technology now that can give you back your smile and ability to eat the foods you love – just like your natural teeth."
Dr. Michael Wehrle
Learn About
Single & Full-Arch Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most natural way to replace missing teeth. Typically made of titanium or zirconia, dental implants are designed to replace the root structure of missing teeth, providing support and stability for replacement teeth. They are the longest-lasting solution available.
All-on-4® is a trademarked treatment procedure that essentially involves replacement of all missing teeth in one jaw by using only 4 implants. This procedure is especially beneficial in patients who have lost a lot of bone in the back areas of the mouth.
First, here are the most commonly accepted figures: The total dental implant costs for a single dental implant to be placed and restored range on average from $3,000 to $6,000 per restored implant. The typical cost is usually around $4,500.
Can you find a dentist who can provide dental implants for less? Absolutely. You can always find someone cheaper. Just like you can always find someone less skilled and with less experience.
Be sure when comparing costs, you compare everything involved with the procedure. Many times, an advertisement for a cheap implant does not include everything required in the procedure. The cost to cover all expenses associated with the planned treatment usually includes the following:
- Sedation
- Any extractions
- Removal of infected tissues (bone and gum)
- Implant placement
- Temporary and final dentures/bridges
Generally, dental implants are not covered by dental insurance. However, policies do vary and most cover a portion of the restorative procedure. Financing options are often available with competitive interest rates, and payments can be tailored to your budget.
Although discomfort varies from person to person, most patients say it was much less discomfort than they thought it would be. During the surgical procedure, you will be given an anesthetic, so you will feel little or no discomfort. When placing the implants Dr. Wehrle uses gentle techniques, and because the doctor is working in a clean environment, there is little chance for infection. If you follow all postoperative instructions and take the required antibiotics, there is minimal discomfort. All patients are given pain medications, but many don’t use them.
You’ll be comforted to know that placing an implant is easier than taking a tooth out. Usually a local anesthetic is used, which means you are awake during the surgery. But if you’re very nervous about the surgery, you have sedative options to make you more comfortable during the operation, including IV sedation, which can put you in varying stages of consciousness. This is also known as general anesthesia and will put you into a deep sleep until it wears off.
Immediately after the surgery and for a few days you will likely experience some discomfort. After all, this is a major dental procedure. However, any pain should be manageable. Discomfort may be felt in the chin, cheeks, or underneath the eyes. You may also experience bruising of the skin and gums, pain at the implant site, and minor bleeding. Painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, will be recommended.
You will typically spend up to 3 days with us, in our office. But the actual procedure is completed within a 24-hour period.
You get your beautiful, functioning full arch temporary healing prosthesis. This one is different material then the final one to allow any adjustments and specifications to be made prior to the milling of your final.
Initially you will only use a medicated mouth rinse prescribed by Dr. Wehrle. Once your mouth is healed, you will use a waterpick to clean around the implants and under the secured denture. You will also schedule regular follow up visits with your dentist for cleanings.
Implants can last many years if cared for properly. Many implants have been in place for more than 40 years.
Anyone who is healthy enough to undergo a tooth extraction is likely a suitable candidate for dental implants. However, there are certain conditions that may complicate or prohibit implant treatment. Patients with certain complications, such as chronic diseases, heavy smoking or alcohol abuse may not be candidates for implants. Your doctor will determine whether or not this treatment is right for you after a complete physical exam and evaluation of your medical history.