FAQS About Dental Implants/Dental Surgery in Costa Rica
First: A Basic Overview of Dental Implant Materials and Applications
The Dental Implants we use are Titanium implants from BIOMET 3i (Made in USA) with a lifetime warranty, for one-stage protocol or traditional two-stage. So you may rest assured your Costa Rica dental implants are of the highest quality and made of materials familiar to dentists in your own country of residence.
The implant supported crowns are performed once the dental implants are fully integrated to assure solid long term results.
This state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry procedure is offered to you depending on your specific needs and on the number of missing teeth. In the case of multiple missing teeth we may offer a 48 hour full mouth restoration with a hybrid fixed denture.
On single tooth restorations an implant supported crown will be the usual solution.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is basically a space-age, high-tech metal titanium screw. We use this screw as a secure mounting point onto the jaw bone. It can be for a single tooth replacement or it can be used to support a cap or a bridge.
Who is the Ideal Patient for Dental Implants?
Anyone in reasonable health who wants to replace missing teeth. You must have enough bone in the area of the missing teeth to anchor the implant(s). Almost everyone today is an excellent candidate for dental implants to replace small bridges, removable partial dentures and even just to replace a single missing tooth.
What is the Success Rate of Dental Implants?
This depends on where the implants are placed and their function. The best placement of implants is in the front portion of the lower jaw where success can be as high as 98 to 100%. In other parts of the mouth, success rates can drop to around the 90-95% range.
Are Dental Implants for you?
If you want to replace missing teeth, then discuss the use of dental implants with your dentist. If you decide that dental implants are for you, then he may refer you to a qualified surgeon for that initial phase of the treatment.
Why are Dental Implants so Popular?
Implants offer a high quality permanent dental replacement system most beneficial to overall enjoyment of life and health, as both dentures and removable bridges have inherent problems caused by loose fit. Implants are both functional and aesthetic, plus can eliminate the problems associated with loose fitting dentures.
How long after a dental implant is placed can it be used to anchor my new teeth?
The protocol that was originally developed clearly indicates waiting 90 days for the lower jaw and 180 days for the upper jaw before beginning the construction of the new dental prosthesis that will be supported by the implants. Recently, there has been an inclination to shorten this period, and in some cases patients can leave the office with teeth in place. Such options become available with selected patients where it is possible to accelerate the healing time.
Does it hurt when Dental Implants are placed?
The actual procedure to surgically place a dental implant is done under local anesthesia and usually is not painful at all.
Do I have to go without my "teeth" while the implants are bonding to my jaw bone?
The original protocol calls for patients to go without wearing their dentures for at least two weeks after implant placement. Over the years, this has been modified considerably and in most situations, patients leave the office wearing their teeth the day the implants are placed. Every patient and procedure must be evaluated separately and there might occasionally be a recommendation that a patient go without their prosthesis for a short period of time.
What do Costa Rica Dental Implants cost?
We are very affordable, and we will work closely with your primary care dentist. It is important to remember: the success of the restoration, not the overall fee, is most important. Our fees are based on the complexity of the overall procedure. We find that it is much more cost effective when we both place the implants and complete the restoration - so please ask your dentist to contact us to discuss your overall restoration requirements or contact us directly.