DENTAL IMPLANT FAQS

At Eagle Oral Surgery and Implant Center, we want you to feel prepared for and informed about your treatments. To do this, we are pleased to provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants. We invite you to review these questions prior to your consultation with our oral surgeon, and feel free to call us at (208) 995-2865 if you have any further questions. Dr. Jeremy Hixson is dedicated to your comfort, and to fulfilling your goals for your smile. We look forward to restoring your smile with dental implants in Eagle, Idaho!

What can I use for teeth while the implants heal?
There are many suitable options for replacement teeth during the healing period, and our oral surgeon will help you know which one is right based on your specific needs. Some of your options for replacement teeth include a temporary set of removable teeth, a temporary bridge or denture, and transitional implants. You may also be able to have your implants crowns placed the same day as your implants.

What are the potential problems?
Post-operative pain is a common concern for patients, but many individuals do not experience severe or significant discomfort after their implant surgery; however, you will still be prescribed pain medications and antibiotics. With these, your recovery can be more successful and comfortable, and you can decrease your risk of infection. Other patients are concerned about possible permanent or long-term numbness as a result of harming the nerve in your lower jaw. Our oral surgeon and team are highly skilled and practiced, and they do their absolute best to avoid damaging your nerves.

How long will the implants last?
With proper care, implants usually last patients an entire lifetime. Many studies of complete smile replacement with implants show an 80-90% success rate. For those with just one or a few missing teeth, the success rate is above 95%. If an implant does not heal properly or becomes loose, you may need to have it removed and replaced after a healing period.

When are the replacement teeth attached to the implant?
Before your surgery, our surgeon will review with you the most appropriate type of restoration for your implants and the timeline at which they can be placed. Please keep in mind that the number of appointments and the amount of time required for each appointment is different for each patient. Possible restorations vary from abutments that are similar to dental crowns and can be made with different materials to dentures and other custom restorations.

How do I clean my new teeth?
Similar to caring for your natural teeth, brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and visiting the dentist regularly are the best ways to care for your smile and your new dental implants. All replacement teeth and dental prosthetics are subject to wear and tear, so maintaining your oral health and regular checkups may also include repairs like clip replacement, relines, tightening, or other adjustments.

Will one doctor perform every phase of my treatment?
Our surgeon will be placing your dental implants and performing other necessary surgical procedures. Your general dentist can provide both your temporary and permanent replacement teeth. Both doctors work together for improving your oral health; howver, other specialists may be involved if necessary.

How much does all of this cost?
Our team will make every effort to give you the most accurate estimate regarding your treatment cost, which includes the expense of both the implants and the replacement teeth. There is often also a cost for the diagnosis, as well as regular maintenance, such as hygiene visits and repairs. If your procedure requires multiple doctors, the services provided by each will be charged to you separately. We ask that you consider the limits and applications of your insurance benefits as well. Each patient is unique, and therefore, we cannot consider every option for the outcome of your treatment before meeting you.