Being an expert in the field of implant dentistry , we keep getting some questions /misconceptions regarding dental implants. Let us break them down one by one.

1. IS DENTAL IMPLANT A PAINFUL PROCEDURE?

    Generally dental implants are done under local anesthesia. If a tooth is infected and needs extraction before the implant procedure, then the extraction can sometimes be painful. Placing implants is not painful.

2. HOW LONG DOES A DENTAL IMPLANT LAST?

     Dental implant is not a single piece. It comprises of 3 components- The base, abutment(middle portion) and crown. If the implant is placed correctly by the clinician ,usually the base is for lifetime (unless you do not get any severe diabetes, bone related diseases or trauma). The life of the abutment and crown depends on the patients food habits. Any hard, sticky food or excess pressure can damage the abutment or crown ,which is repairable. 

3. DO WE HAVE TO REMOVE THE IMPLANTS /CROWNS IF MRI IS NEEDED IN FUTURE?

      This is a misconception. You don't need to remove your implants/crowns before MRI. Some scattering of images do happen in the local area of mouth where implants are placed. Unfortunately Hollywood/Bollywood movies tend to show crown removal and disasters while taking an MRI which is not true.

4.  HOW MUCH DOES A DENTAL IMPLANT COST?

      This depends on multiple factors. 

a. Skill and experience of the doctor.

b. Implants used can be of Korean, German, US,  Israel, Indian origin, cost varies accordingly

c. Materials used for the procedure and sterilization protocols to avoid cross infection.

d. Treatment planning and execution done in digital way or the traditional way.

e. Extra materials like bone graft, membranes needed during the procedure.

5. HOW MANY DAYS ARE NEEDED TO COMPLETE THE IMPLANT PROCEDURE

          In majority of the cases it takes around 3-4 appointments in 3 months time to complete the procedure. In very few cases it may take 6 months as well.

          Also due to advances and digital dentistry we can give fixed teeth in 3 days as well in few situations. But this option comes with a major cost.

6. CAN A DIABETIC PATIENT GET A DENTAL IMPLANT?

          Yes. If the patient is prediabetic or slightly diabetic dental implants can be done.

           If patient has HBA1C below 7.5 dental implants can be done. Implants can be done even beyond 7.5  levels of HBA1C but the chances of getting infection and delayed healing of the site should be kept in mind.

7. IS IMPLANT POSSIBLE IMMEDIATELY AFTER TOOTH EXTRACTION?

        Now a days 90% of our patients undergo immediate extraction and implants. This procedure saves your natural bone and time of treatment.

Dr.Rushad Nariman is M.D.S prosthodontist and implantologist practicing in Malad west and has an experience of 16 years in this particular field. The clinic uses digital intraoral scanner as a part of restorative and implant workflow.