Why am I being referred to Dr. Caplanis?
Your dentist has determined that your condition warrants the treatment by a specialist. Your dentist and Dr. Caplanis work together to assure the highest level of care for you. Certain advanced conditions require the expertise of a specialist. Dr. Caplanis will be in direct contact with your dentist during your treatment to keep everyone informed of your progress.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial replacements for a lost tooth root. They are small screws made of titanium, and are delicately placed back into the jawbone, in order to support an artificial prosthesis such as a crown or bridge. They can also provide a means to anchor a removable prosthesis such as a complete or partial denture.
Are dental implants right for me?
If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to replace that missing tooth in the most conservative manner, then dental implants may be right for you. Dental implants can restore your ability to eat, speak and smile with comfort and confidence. In comparison to alternative treatment options for the replacement of missing teeth, dental implants very often are the most predictable and longest lasting.
What is gum surgery?
Gum surgery is a procedure that allows your periodontist to treat your periodontal disease, or correct the damage caused by it. The process is relatively quick and easy, and is not associated with too much pain or discomfort.
Will I need gum surgery?
Dr. Caplanis and his staff will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and determine what course of action is right for you. Often times, when caught early, periodontal disease can be effectively treated non-surgically.
What can I expect from the process?
In order to determine the best course of action for your particular dental problem, an initial examination is necessary with appropriate x-ray images, for a thorough evaluation and assessment of your needs. Our office works as a team with your dentist and then coordinates your care. Surgery when necessary is performed in our specially designed “surgi-suites” where you can watch your favorite tv program, listen to music on personal headsets or sleep while under conscious sedation.
Is gum or implant surgery painful?
The majority of our patients report only a minor degree of swelling and discomfort following surgery. An over the counter pain medication is all that is typically needed following most surgical procedures.
Can an implant fail or be rejected?
Long term survival data of dental implants suggests success rates between 85%-99%. The more training, skill and experience the surgeon has, the better the survival rates. In addition, long term implant survival is dependent on proper implant care. Our office predictably achieves greater than 99% survival each year. This is why we can offer an unprecedented 5 year warranty with our dental implants.
How do I take care of implants?
Just like natural teeth, brushing, flossing and regular dental visits are essential for the long term success of dental implants. Our office, along with your dentist, will provide the long term maintenance for your implants so they last a lifetime.
How long do dental implants last?
Although individual results will vary, with proper long term care which includes daily brushing and flossing and regular dental cleanings with a hygienist skilled in proper dental implant maintenance, you implants should last a lifetime.
How much does a dental implant cost?
Costs vary with the individual circumstance. The cost of an implant in our office ranges depending on your particular needs. The cost of a dental implant to replace a single missing tooth, is often similar to alternative options, including fixed bridgework. Our office provides long term financing, often with no interest making all treatment attainable for just about every budget. Given the long term survival rates of implants compared with alternative tooth replacement options, in the long run an implant is often the least expensive option.
This sounds great! How do I get started?
Just give our office a call at (949) 830-1322 and schedule an appointment.