Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the only permanent way to restore function and aesthetics when you are missing some or all of your teeth. They provide several advantages you do not find with removable dentures, bridges, or temporary solutions:

• You do not have to worry about dental implants slipping, shifting, or falling out
• They look natural and perform like your own teeth
• An individual implant does not damage any other teeth
• Implants preserve the health and strength of your jawbone
• Implants help maintain the natural contours of your face
• Implants last a lifetime, with most restorations (the visible portion) last decades
• You do not have to limit what you eat
• No one will know you have implants
• Upper jaw implants do not cover the roof of the mouth like traditional dentures

How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Implants?

The surgery itself takes only a few hours and is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Kirsch designs and attaches the crowns or implant-supported dentures. The entire process can take anywhere from six to eight months to allow time for the jawbone to heal after surgery.

Will I Need Bone Grafts for Dental Implants?

It depends on a variety of factors. We refer our patients to a vetted, qualified oral surgeon specializing in implant surgery who determines whether you need bone grafts for successful dental implant surgery.

What Specialist is Best for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a collaborative project involving an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a general dentist specializing in designing and placing the restorations. 86th Street Dental Center refers all our patients to a highly qualified oral surgeon who will perform the surgery. We work closely with them throughout the implant process to ensure the process goes smoothly.

As a general dentist with a particular interest in restoration, Dr. Kirsch designs and installs custom-crafted restoration crowns and dentures that match your natural teeth and restore full function.

How Common Are Complications with Dental Implants?

Complications with dental implants are very rare. Over 95% of dental implant restorations are successful and last for decades. However, occasionally, a dental implant does not integrate with the jawbone or becomes loose. A crown or denture may crack or loosen due to excessive wear or an injury. In any of these situations, you should immediately contact our office for an appointment to evaluate the damage and determine the best way to correct it.

What Does Dental Implant Repair Involve?

If the dental crown or denture is damaged, Dr. Kirsch can easily replace it with a new crown or denture. If the damage is minor, such as a small crack, we may be able to repair it. We take the least invasive approach with the greatest chance of successful restoration.

If the titanium implant loosens or becomes infected or inflamed, contact the oral surgeon who performed your surgery immediately. They may need to remove the implant, perform bone grafts, and treat any infection.

We are happy to answer any of your questions about dental restoration and dental implants. For a consultation with Dr. Kirsch, please contact 86th Street Dental Center at 86th Street Dental Center Office Phone Number (212) 579-0213 or use our online contact form.