FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of common questions I am asked. Take a look below and see if these help answer your query. Alternatively please feel free to reach out to me via the Contact Me page. Thank you
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Answer: Complex restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring damaged or missing teeth using advanced techniques and materials. This includes treatments like dental implants, bone grafting, sinus elevation, soft tissue regeneration, and full-arch restorations, tailored to address more complex cases and improve both functionality and aesthetics.
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Answer: Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They fuse with the bone over time, creating a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or full-arch restorations. This provides a permanent solution to tooth loss, restoring function and appearance.
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Answer: A single dental implant replaces one missing tooth, while a dental bridge is used when multiple teeth are missing. A bridge typically uses adjacent healthy teeth for support, while an implant is placed directly into the jawbone to act as the tooth’s root, providing a more secure and long-lasting solution.
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Answer: All-on-4 and All-on-6 are full-arch dental implant procedures that involve placing four or six dental implants in the jaw to support a complete set of teeth. These procedures are ideal for patients who are missing all or most of their teeth and want a fixed, permanent solution. The All-on-4 technique uses four implants, while All-on-6 uses six for added stability.
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Answer: Most people who have lost teeth and are in good overall health are candidates for dental implants. However, sufficient bone density in the jaw is necessary for the implant to integrate properly. If you lack enough bone, we can perform bone grafting procedures to build up the bone before implant placement.
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Answer: Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to add bone material to areas where the jawbone has been lost or weakened. This is often necessary before placing dental implants to ensure there is enough healthy bone to support the implant. We offer minor bone augmentation, major bone augmentation, and sinus elevation procedures to help regenerate bone for implant placement.
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Answer: Sinus elevation is a bone grafting procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the back molars and premolars, where the sinus cavity is located. It is often necessary for patients who don’t have enough bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants, particularly in the back of the mouth.
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Answer: Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. After dental implant placement, it typically takes 3-6 months for the implants to fully integrate with the bone. Bone grafting procedures may take a few months for the bone to heal and regenerate before implants can be placed. We will provide you with a detailed recovery plan based on your individual needs.
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Answer: Soft tissue regeneration procedures, such as recession coverage and connective tissue grafts, help to restore and improve the health of the gums around teeth and implants. These treatments are used to cover exposed tooth roots, treat gum recession, and improve the overall appearance of the gums around dental implants.
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Answer: Recession coverage is a procedure where a graft is placed over exposed tooth roots caused by gum recession. This helps protect the tooth root from decay and sensitivity, as well as improving the appearance of the gum line.
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Answer: Peri-implantitis is an infection or inflammation of the tissue around a dental implant, often caused by poor oral hygiene or other factors. Treatment typically involves cleaning the implant and surrounding tissues to remove bacteria and, in some cases, further surgery or bone grafting may be needed to restore the implant.
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Answer: Digital dentistry uses advanced technology like 3D imaging, digital impressions, and computer-aided design (CAD) to plan and execute restorative procedures with greater precision and accuracy. This allows for faster, more efficient treatments, better outcomes, and reduced discomfort during procedures like implants and crowns.
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Answer: The process involves a consultation to evaluate your dental and medical health. We will take 3D scans and digital impressions to plan the implant placement precisely. After the implants are placed, you will have a healing period, after which your permanent teeth are placed. Full-arch restorations are often completed in a few stages, but they provide a permanent, secure solution for missing teeth.
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Answer: Proper oral hygiene is essential to maintaining dental implants and restored teeth. Brush and floss regularly, avoid smoking, and attend routine dental check-ups. We will provide you with personalised aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of your implants and restorations.
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Answer: Dental implants may be partially covered by dental insurance, depending on your plan. It’s a good idea to check with your provider for details. We also offer flexible financing options to help make your treatment affordable.
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Answer: The cost of dental implants depends on factors such as the number of implants needed, the complexity of your case, and any additional procedures like bone grafting or sinus elevation. We provide a personalized treatment plan with a breakdown of costs after your initial consultation.
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Answer: Yes, we can replace dentures with dental implants or full-arch restorations such as All-on-4 or All-on-6. These treatments provide a more permanent and stable solution for missing teeth compared to traditional dentures.
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Answer: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crowns or bridges on top of the implants may need to be replaced after 10-15 years due to natural wear and tear, but the implants themselves are designed to be long-lasting.
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Answer: As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, nerve damage, or implant failure. However, with proper planning and expertise, these risks are minimal. We will thoroughly assess your individual case to ensure the best possible outcome.
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