Dental Implants FAQ

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root placed into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture in place. The implant acts as a post that fuses to your own bone and then attaches to an artificial tooth or teeth. Dental implants have been used successfully for many years. Dental implants involve two phases:

1. Surgical placement of the implant
2. Placement of the post and crown on the implant.

Who should I see for implant treatment?

Since periodontists are the dental experts who specialize in both gum and bone surgery in the mouth, they have the special knowledge, training, and facilities needed to produce a customized esthetic implant tailored to your individual needs. Periodontists also have the experience to rebuild lost tissue which can allow successful implant placement even in patients who have been told that they are not implant candidates – Just as a house or building is built from the foundation up – the success of dental implants depends on a strong foundation in bone. Periodontists are dentists who deal with the foundation (roots or implants) which must be strong in order for the crown of the tooth to be placed on firm support. Dr. Froum specializes in creating that firm support. Dr. Froum is a Board Certified Periodontist and a Clinical Professor teaching Periodontics and Implants at the New York University Dental Center.

What are dental implants used for?

There are three basic uses for Dental Implants:

1. As an artificial root for a single tooth replacement.
2. As anchors for a fixed or removable prosthesis to replace multiple teeth.
3. As anchors for a full bridge or full denture to replace all of your teeth instead of a regular removable denture

What are the benefits of dental implants?

With the exception of your natural teeth, nothing looks more natural than an implant. Dental implants are so natural looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth. Dental Implants are:

Esthetic

• Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth
• Dental implants prevent bone and gum tissue loss that can happen with regular bridges
• Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement system available today
• Dental implants preserve the jawbone, which can prevent premature aging and that “sunken-in” look

Tooth Saving

• Dental implants don’t require cutting down good teeth so a bridge, crown or cap can be placed on them
• Dental implants never develop decay
• Dental implants never require root canals
• Successful dental implants provide as strong a bite as a natural healthy tooth

Reliable

• More than nine out of ten implants last longer than 15 years
• Implants will allow you to eat the food you desire without having to worry about wobbles or clicks and using glues or adhesives
• There is no age limit to those who can receive dental implants, in fact we have successfully placed dental implants in patients ranging in age from 18 yrs – 90 yrs!
• Research has shown similar success rates regardless of age

Am I a candidate for implants?

Most people with a missing tooth or teeth can have dental implants. There is no age limit to those who can receive dental implants. Research has shown similar success regardless of age. Dr. Froum specializes in rebuilding lost tissue and has training to deal with patients with a variety of medical conditions so even if you think you can not receive a dental implant, please contact the office for a free screening and implant evaluation. Dr. Froum uses the most up to date implants which result in a decreased healing time. In many cases you can receive your replacement crowns in just a few weeks, or in some cases on the same day the implants are placed.

For a free consultation please contact our New York Periodontist Dr. Stuart Froum in his Manhattan office at 212.586.4209 for information regarding dental implants.