3 Common Questions about Dental Implants

At TopDental in Manta Ecuador, one of our most popular procedures for restoration of missing teeth is the dental implant. In fact, as the success rate of this treatment has improved over the past several decades, implants have gained such popularity that more than 3 million Americans have dental implants today.

Below, TopDental owner Dr. Victor Carreño, M.Sc. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (University of Manchester, U.K.) shares the answers to the most common questions we receive about this dental treatment.

1. How can I know if I am a good candidate for dental implants?

The first step in the process is to contact our office and make an appointment for the first evaluation ($20). Dr. Carreño will conduct a full mouth evaluation of hard and soft tissues to ensure that conditions are optimal for implant placement. While we can do a preliminary evaluation with x-rays, we require a Cone Beam CT scan in order to properly plan implant placement and ensure that we have sufficient bone width and height to support the implant. In cases where bone is insufficient, a bone graft may be necessary. Dr. Carreño can provide the order for the CT scan to be done here in Manta at a radiology center for $90.

Dr. Carreño will also review the patient's medical history. Certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled chronic or systemic disease, or a history of radiation exposure for example, can cause a higher risk for implant failure. Smoking and alcohol use in the days after surgery can also interfere with healing and implant success rate.

2. Will I have the crown (tooth) on the same day as my implant?

At TopDental we generally approach implants in two phases: implant surgery and crown placement. We prefer to allow 3-4 months between implant surgery and crown placement in order to allow for proper osseointegration, because applying masticatory force to the implant can interrupt the osseointegration process and there is a greater risk that the implant may not integrate properly. During this time, the human bone cells that are in contact with the implant are remodeled, becoming new cells that are chemically bound to the implant. On a case-by-case basis we may be able to place the crown earlier than 3 months. In certain cases we can also create temporary removable solutions.

TopDental case: single implant with screw-retained crown. The access hole in the crown is covered by a white resin filling which can be easily removed and replaced if necessary for implant maintenance.

3. What does follow-up care look like after implant placement?

After surgery, the patient will generally be prescribed an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory/ analgesic. Pain is usually minimal to none following this surgery. A soft diet and avoiding alcohol or smoking is required during recovery. After 7 days, the patient will return for removal of stitches and follow-up evaluation. Following implant placement, patients should return for routine cleanings and maintenance every 6 months.

At TopDental, we offer several types of dental implants. Single implantes with screw-retained crowns, implant-supported bridges, and implant-supported dentures (as shown below).