Dental Implants – Boston, MA
Why Choose The Face Dental Group for Dental Implants?
We excel in the field of implant dentistry, driven by our dedication to innovation, precision, safety and quality. The fusion of art and science underlines our commitment, ensuring that our outcomes mirror the look of natural teeth. Our distinctive approach to dental implants in Boston includes computer-guided implant placement, immediate implant procedures, full-arch implant dentistry utilizing our cutting-edge STAR concept, and metal-free implant dentistry (ceramic implants). Each of these facets embodies the pinnacle of excellence in both clinical practice and the scientific advancements of implant dentistry.
Good bye free-hand, welcome guided implant Dentistry
Whether it is single tooth or full-arch case, every implant we undertake goes through meticulous planning that extends beyond the precise positioning of implants in the bone to ensure that the exact 3D orientation will optimally support the future prosthesis.
Our methodical approach involves the following sequence: Once the digital planning of both the future prosthesis and implant positions is complete, we craft computer-based 3D printed surgical guides. These guides play a crucial role in the precise delivery of implants and the prosthesis (teeth).
Advantages over traditional dental implant surgery include:
- Improved Precision and Safety: Our approach enhances accuracy, ensuring a safer implant procedure.
- Reduced Surgery Time: The streamlined process significantly cuts down on surgical time.
- Less Invasive Surgery: The precision of our approach minimizes invasiveness, leading to reduced postoperative discomfort.
- Optimal Implant Positioning: Implants are strategically placed to better receive the future prosthesis, enhancing its lifespan and ease of maintenance. Also, it allows for ideal design of the prosthesis, which is more accessible for cleaning.
Whether dealing with a simple or complex case, our practice adheres to the standard of computer-based guided dental implant placement, coupled with proactive design for the future prosthesis.
Immediate Dental Implants, Cumbersome Procedures Eliminated
Traditional dental implant placement involves a prolonged and cumbersome process. Following tooth extraction, a waiting period of 2-3 months for healing ensues. Subsequently, the implant is positioned and covered by the gum for an additional 2-4 months to facilitate healing. A third surgical procedure is then conducted to expose the implant, paving the way for the final impression and the fabrication of the final restoration. This three-surgery approach, stretched over several months, is often deemed burdensome for patients. In contrast, our computer-guided immediate dental implant approach offers a multitude of advantages over the conventional one.
- Fewer Surgeries and Faster Treatment: Immediate implants streamline the treatment process by often combining extraction and implant placement in a single appointment. This significantly reduces overall treatment time, enabling patients to receive their permanent restoration sooner.
- Aesthetics: Immediate dental implants in the anterior region notably preserve the natural appearance. Placing an implant promptly after tooth extraction minimizes bone and gum tissue loss, maintaining the natural contours of the jaw and gum line. The result is an aesthetically pleasing outcome.
- Preservation of Bone and Soft Tissue (Gums): Immediate implant placement, coupled with simultaneous site enhancement procedures, helps mitigate bone and soft tissue changes in the extraction socket. This approach stabilizes bone and soft tissue volume, crucial for long-term implant success and stability.
- Improved Healing: In many cases, immediate dental implants promote faster and more predictable healing. The implant serves as a scaffold for new bone formation, creating a robust and stable foundation for the final restoration.
- Minimized Discomfort: Combining tooth extraction with implant placement reduces the number of surgical procedures, resulting in decreased postoperative discomfort and a shorter recovery period.
- Patient Convenience: Patients value the convenience of a streamlined process, with fewer appointments and less time in the dental chair perceived as significant advantages.
- Psychological Benefits: Immediate dental implants contribute to positive psychological effects on patients. The knowledge that they can maintain their smile shortly after tooth extraction reduces anxiety and enhances their overall experience.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants have a success rate of more than 95%. For the vast majority of patients, they are able to provide tooth replacement that is effective, reliable, and safe.
Of course, no medical procedure is completely risk-free. There is always a very small chance of infections and other complications.
Our team will evaluate your oral and overall health to determine if you have any risk factors that could affect your treatment’s outcome. Issues like diabetes, cancer, certain allergies, and other medical conditions will all be carefully considered. A history of gum disease is also something that we take into account. If our evaluation reveals any cause for concern, we will talk to you about our findings and help you understand the road in front of you.
Do I Need a Bone Graft Before Getting Dental Implants?
Due to natural bone resorption or other factors, some patients have a jawbone that is too thin or weak to accommodate dental implants. During your consultation, we will take some images that will allow us to assess the state of your bone. Based on what we learn, we can determine whether or not a bone graft will be necessary.
If you do need a bone graft, we will share some details about the surgery with you and clearly explain how it may affect your total treatment timeline. Some patients are able to undergo a bone graft and get dental implants during the same appointment. In other cases, a waiting period of a few months is necessary so the grafted material has time to integrate with the surrounding tissue.
We usually try to avoid the need for bone grafts by performing immediate implant placement (in other words, we try to place dental implants right away after tooth extractions). However, that is not always possible.
Are Dental Implants an Eligible HSA Expense?
In most cases, yes, dental implants are considered eligible for healthcare savings account (HSA) funds. Our team can help you to verify whether your treatment qualifies. Simply give us your HSA information so we can verify its terms and conditions.
Regardless of whether you qualify for HSA reimbursement, our team will work to make sure you clearly understand the financial aspect of your care so you do not run into any unpleasant surprises when you are paying for treatment.
Understanding the Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants varies from case to case. It depends on multiple factors. When you visit us for your consultation, we can discuss some specific numbers and help you understand your payment options, such as insurance and financing. We want everyone to be able to experience the benefits of dental implants, so you can expect us to make every effort to work within your budget. Even though dental implants cost more than traditional forms of tooth replacement, they are an excellent long-term value that can rightly be viewed as a smart investment.
Preliminary Treatments & Dental Implant Surgery
Before receiving dental implants, some patients require preliminary treatment, such as gum disease therapy, a bone graft, or tooth extractions. Logically, such procedures have their own cost. Our team is able to carry out all implant-related treatments, and whenever possible, we perform them at the same time as the implant surgery in order to be as efficient and economical as possible.
The implant surgery itself has a price that is separate from preliminary treatments. We use state-of-the-art technology, including surgical guides, to provide our patients with the greatest value possible.
The Parts of Your Dental Implants
Every dental implant treatment is unique. The number of implants you receive, the type of restoration you require, and the manufacturer that provides your implants can all have a bearing on the total cost of your treatment. If you ever have questions about where the parts of your implants come from, simply ask our team. We strive to always use top-quality materials!
How Dental Implants Can Save You Money
Dental implants require a significant upfront financial commitment, but they could actually help you save money in the long run in a few ways:
- Because we perform guided surgery, we guarantee results. You will not need to worry about spending extra money to correct issues that result from human error during the procedure.
- Dental implants can last a lifetime. Their longevity makes them a better monetary value than traditional dentures, which usually need to be replaced every 5 – 7 years or so.
- Dental implants support your health. By supporting your oral and overall health, implants may reduce the need for expensive treatments in the future.
Does My Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
Some dental insurance plans cover implants, while others do not. (Coverage is becoming more common because implants are widely recognized as the best form of tooth replacement.) You will need to look at the details of your policy to find out how it applies. Even if it will not cover the implants themselves, it may help you to pay for preliminary procedures or your final restoration. Our team can help you understand your benefits and file claims on your behalf.
Making Dental Implants Affordable
We want you to be able to afford a healthy and complete smile, so you can rely on us to help you understand all of your payment options. For example, you might qualify for low-interest financing that allows you to pay for your treatment via manageable monthly installments.
We also strive to be adaptable. Simply let us know about any financial concerns you have, and we will do our best to come up with a treatment plan that works with your unique budget.
Dental Implant Post-Op Instructions
After your dental implant surgery, our team will provide detailed instructions to help you experience a smooth recovery period. Do not worry — hopefully, the time will go by quickly and you will soon feel normal again! In the meantime, though, you may have to modify some of your habits. Here are some examples of what may be included in your post-op instructions:
What to Do Directly After Dental Implant Surgery
After your procedure, blood clots should start to form at your surgical sites. These play an important role in your body’s healing process, so it is vital that you protect them. To that end, you should take some precautions:
- Do not vigorously spit. Instead, swallow excess saliva or use tissue to absorb it.
- Do not smoke or use a drinking straw. The suction action might dislodge your blood clots.
- Do not touch your surgical sites. You should keep your fingers and tongue away from your surgical sites for a while.
Common Side Effects When Recovering from Dental Implant Placement
In the days after your procedure, you might experience:
- Intermittent bleeding. This may go on for multiple days. It can usually be managed with clean gauze and light pressure.
- Cold compresses can help to minimize this. Swelling usually starts to subside within a week or so.
- You should get plenty of rest and take appropriate doses of pain relievers as necessary.
If you experience any severe or unusual side effects, call our team right away for assistance.
Your Diet After Dental Implant Surgery
At first, it would be best to adhere to a no-chew diet, which can include things like applesauce, yogurt, smoothies (without seeds), meal replacement shakes, and other items that can be consumed with little effort. When you feel up to it, you may be able to enjoy fork-tender foods, such as scrambled eggs, meatloaf, and soft breads. After you heal and your new teeth are in place, you should be able to eat virtually anything.
Post-Op Health & Oral Hygiene
The day after your surgery, you can resume your normal oral hygiene habits, though you should be very cautious around your surgical sites. Regularly rinsing with warm salt water can help to relieve inflammation and fight bacterial growth. If you have a prescription mouthwash, be sure to use it as directed.
What to Do After Your New Teeth Are Attached
After you heal from your surgery and your new teeth are firmly attached to your implants, you will not need to go through another extensive recovery period. Rather, the only side effect you may experience is a bit of sensitivity or soreness in your gum tissue. You can start to enjoy your beautiful new smile right away!
Maintaining & Caring for Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most durable form of tooth replacement. In fact, they have the potential to last for decades! However, they will only reach that potential if you take reasonable measures to care for them. What are some specific things you should do to maintain your dental implants? Continue reading below to find out.
Make Oral Hygiene a Priority
Thorough oral hygiene can get rid of harmful bacteria and prevent infections that could lead to dental implant failure. To maintain a clean mouth, you should:
- Thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Be sure to clean the backs of your teeth and the area along your gumline.
- Clean between and under your teeth. Floss or a water flosser can help to clean the tight spaces between your teeth and beneath your implant-supported bridges.
- Take other steps. You may need to use an antibacterial mouthwash or use other methods to maintain a clean mouth. Ask our team for tips!
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet protects your overall wellness and reduces the risk of damage to your implants and the surrounding tissue. Try to minimize your intake of hard, sticky, and sugary foods. These can contribute to dental damage and harmful bacterial growth. Instead, center your diet on items that support oral health. For example, you should be sure to get enough calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin C.
Break Bad Habits
Some bad habits that might harm your implants include:
- Smoking. This habit can drastically increase your risk of dental implant failure. Talk to your primary care physician if you need help quitting.
- Excess alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking can adversely affect jawbone health. If you drink, do so only occasionally and in limited amounts.
- Biting on hard objects. Biting on ice, pen caps, or other hard objects might break your restorations.
Protect Your Dental Implants
If you play sports, it would be wise to wear a mouthguard, which can drastically reduce the risk of injury to your mouth and dental implants. Custom mouthguards from a dentist tend to be more effective and comfortable than over-the-counter options.
If you tend to grind your teeth at night, you may need a different type of mouthguard — one that is designed to place a protective barrier between your upper and lower dental arches.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Even if you no longer have any of your natural teeth, you should still make it your custom to visit your general dentist for a cleaning and checkup twice a year. They can clean your implant abutments and your restorations and look for any indications that your oral health is developing problems. They can also give you personalized tips to help you care well for your smile on a daily basis.
Dental Implant Post-Op Instructions
After your dental implant surgery, our team will provide detailed instructions to help you experience a smooth recovery period. Do not worry — hopefully, the time will go by quickly and you will soon feel normal again! In the meantime, though, you may have to modify some of your habits. Here are some examples of what may be included in your post-op instructions:
What to Do Directly After Dental Implant Surgery
After your procedure, blood clots should start to form at your surgical sites. These play an important role in your body’s healing process, so it is vital that you protect them. To that end, you should take some precautions:
- Do not vigorously spit. Instead, swallow excess saliva or use tissue to absorb it.
- Do not smoke or use a drinking straw. The suction action might dislodge your blood clots.
- Do not touch your surgical sites. You should keep your fingers and tongue away from your surgical sites for a while.
Common Side Effects When Recovering from Dental Implant Placement
In the days after your procedure, you might experience:
- Intermittent bleeding. This may go on for multiple days. It can usually be managed with clean gauze and light pressure.
- Cold compresses can help to minimize this. Swelling usually starts to subside within a week or so.
- You should get plenty of rest and take appropriate doses of pain relievers as necessary.
If you experience any severe or unusual side effects, call our team right away for assistance.
Your Diet After Dental Implant Surgery
At first, it would be best to adhere to a no-chew diet, which can include things like applesauce, yogurt, smoothies (without seeds), meal replacement shakes, and other items that can be consumed with little effort. When you feel up to it, you may be able to enjoy fork-tender foods, such as scrambled eggs, meatloaf, and soft breads. After you heal and your new teeth are in place, you should be able to eat virtually anything.
Post-Op Health & Oral Hygiene
The day after your surgery, you can resume your normal oral hygiene habits, though you should be very cautious around your surgical sites. Regularly rinsing with warm salt water can help to relieve inflammation and fight bacterial growth. If you have a prescription mouthwash, be sure to use it as directed.
What to Do After Your New Teeth Are Attached
After you heal from your surgery and your new teeth are firmly attached to your implants, you will not need to go through another extensive recovery period. Rather, the only side effect you may experience is a bit of sensitivity or soreness in your gum tissue. You can start to enjoy your beautiful new smile right away!
Dental Implant FAQs
The decision to get dental implants requires a significant commitment of both time and money. Understandably, then, you may want to know as much as possible about the road ahead before you officially embark on your tooth replacement journey. To help you gather information, we have put together the following list of FAQs. If your specific questions are not addressed here, please call our team. We will be happy to assist you in any way we can!
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to stand the test of time. In fact, for many patients, they provide a lifetime of benefits!
Of course, the longevity of your new teeth will depend partially on you. You should be committed to good habits that will reduce your risk of dental implant failure. For example, you should have a thorough oral hygiene routine, attend regular dental checkups, and eat a balanced, nutritious diet. It is also strongly recommended that you avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products.
How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are successful in more than 95% of cases. Our team does everything we can to make sure that each patient experiences positive results. For example, we use state-of-the-art technology to perform guided surgery, which minimizes the risk of human error and reduces the chances of future implant failure.
It is worth noting that various factors can affect dental implant success rates. Your overall health, the state of your mouth, and other considerations may have a bearing on your treatment’s final outcome. Our team can discuss such issues with you so you can make a well-informed decision about how to move forward.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Dental Implant Surgery?
Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a day or two of their surgery. (If your job requires a lot of physical activity, you might need to stay home for up to a week or two.)
The soft tissue at your implant sites should heal within a few weeks. The bone will take at least a few months to fully recover and form a strong bond with your implants.
How Soon After a Tooth Extraction Can I Get Dental Implants?
Whenever possible, we perform immediate dental implant placement. In other words, you can get implants on the same day as your tooth extractions! This streamlines the entire tooth replacement process and reduces the number of surgical procedures that you must undergo.
If there are circumstances that prohibit immediate implant placement, such as certain types of infections, you may have to wait 3 – 6 months before your implant procedure.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants have a success rate of more than 95%. For the vast majority of patients, they are able to provide tooth replacement that is effective, reliable, and safe.
Of course, no medical procedure is completely risk-free. There is always a very small chance of infections and other complications.
Our team will evaluate your oral and overall health to determine if you have any risk factors that could affect your treatment’s outcome. Issues like diabetes, cancer, certain allergies, and other medical conditions will all be carefully considered. A history of gum disease is also something that we take into account. If our evaluation reveals any cause for concern, we will talk to you about our findings and help you understand the road in front of you.
Do I Need a Bone Graft Before Getting Dental Implants?
Due to natural bone resorption or other factors, some patients have a jawbone that is too thin or weak to accommodate dental implants. During your consultation, we will take some images that will allow us to assess the state of your bone. Based on what we learn, we can determine whether or not a bone graft will be necessary.
If you do need a bone graft, we will share some details about the surgery with you and clearly explain how it may affect your total treatment timeline. Some patients are able to undergo a bone graft and get dental implants during the same appointment. In other cases, a waiting period of a few months is necessary so the grafted material has time to integrate with the surrounding tissue.
We usually try to avoid the need for bone grafts by performing immediate implant placement (in other words, we try to place dental implants right away after tooth extractions). However, that is not always possible.
Are Dental Implants an Eligible HSA Expense?
In most cases, yes, dental implants are considered eligible for healthcare savings account (HSA) funds. Our team can help you to verify whether your treatment qualifies. Simply give us your HSA information so we can verify its terms and conditions.
Regardless of whether you qualify for HSA reimbursement, our team will work to make sure you clearly understand the financial aspect of your care so you do not run into any unpleasant surprises when you are paying for treatment.